Kalos

I invited Kiho, Yuzuru and the others too, but they were going home today, so it was just me and Ai.

Riku: (Even so...)

Ai: ……

Riku: (Ai is already dozing off. Well, I guess he's tired.)

Apparently, he'd already had quite a fair share of drink at the party. And yet, he called out to me. Watching him with a wry smile, I made the drink a little weaker than usual.

Riku: Ai, I'll leave this here. And some water too, just in case.

Ai: ......Thank you.

Riku: That's what I should be saying.

Ai: ......Isn't it Riku-san who needs water?

Riku: I'm not as drunk as Ai today. If it’s the usual without any context, that would be a different story, though.

We did promise to go drinking. So this was a thank you for that.

But aren't you pushing yourself?

Ai: If that’s the case, I wouldn't have spoken to you in the first place. While others might be able to, more or less, notice that kind of things… you're in the different league.

Riku: Especially when it comes to Ai?

Ai: I’m well aware. But let me tell you this. There's no situation where it's necessary for me to force myself. Since I'm making sure that doesn't happen.

Riku: .…..That’s true.

The Emperor of Aporia is magnificent and reliable. I know that best, and I believe in him without an ounce of doubt. But, that's exactly why—

Riku: (Ah, I guess I really am...)

Riku: I'm lonely.

Ai: Where’s that coming from?

Riku: You’re like a fine younger brother growing up and becoming independent from older brother.

Ai: Aren’t you an only child?

Riku: Hypothetically speaking.

I’m talking about Ai, obviously.

Ai: ......? Excuse me?

That was when truly realized. These feelings were real, completely real.

Riku: I've never once thought that you are a younger brother who can't function without me, and I never will. But I want to be someone you can rely on without hesitation when something happens.

I wish you would talk to me more casually, without thinking about my situation or whether it's something you need my help with or not. Just like Yuragi today.

Ai: ……………You want me to be your grandson too or what?

Riku: Since when did I say that? Forget about it already.

Ai: Then...Are you saying you're worried about me? Worried that I'm holding back and not relying on you.

Riku: Not in the least. I know that you'll definitely ask for my help when you need it.

But, if you’re in a situation where you need me and I could at the very least diminish your worries and troubles….. Only then would I be truly delighted.....

That’s what on my mind.

Ai: ……..

Riku: You heard me. Well, this conceptual older brother kind of got all sentimental for no reason. Sorry for dragging you in.

Just because I'm at home doesn't mean I should act too relaxed and let my guard down.

Ai: Isn’t that normal for you?

Riku: Hey, what did you just say?

Ai: Don't just go and reduce something that hasn't decreased and then proceed to get all sentimental.

Riku: Huh?

Ai: It hasn't decreased. There are plenty of times I need your help.

Riku: ………………Are there?

Ai: Of course. I'm just handling them myself.

Riku: Then you can just ask. Ugh, I've told you so many times... Why? Am I unreliable?

Ai: Which driveway did you take to arrive at that conclusion? It's the opposite.

Riku: The opposite?

Ai: Because you're so reliable, I'm trying my best not to take advantage of that too much. If I let Riku-san handled everything, the number of tasks that “could easily be overcome just by asking Riku-san” would never decrease.

If I don't catch up and stand on the same level as you, you won't be able to rely on me.

Riku: ......Relying on Ai? Me?

Ai: Don't act like you're hearing this for the first time.

"Can I rely on you?" It was Riku-san who called me to Aporia with that sentence.

Riku: …I see.

So that’s what’s going on...

It wasn't that I was no longer needed, or that I was unreliable, or that he was holding back. That wasn't the case at all.

Riku: ….Ai. I think I could cry at any moment now.

Ai: Seriously, what’s wrong with you? Please stop at once.

Anyway, that's how it is. Nothing has changed, and to be honest, I don't really understand what you're saying.

But if you’re lonely, I'll keep you company today.

Riku: ……..

("I'll keep you company," huh...)

(Saying it in such an uncute way. Seriously, this guy—)

Well, thank you very much.

Ai: !

………………What is it?

Riku: A wake-up call?

Ai: I wouldn’t fall asleep even if you didn’t pinch my cheek.

Riku: Says the guy who has been dozing off.....

(Sheesh, can he be even more adorable?)

The next day

Riku: Fuwaaa….

I opened the curtains and stretched, basking in the morning sun.

Riku: (Um, yesterday…. after that...)

……

Perhaps because I had drunk more enjoyably than usual, my memory was hazy from a certain point onwards. An unusual occurrence.

Riku: (......I guess I should contact Ai.)

Ai: "---Yes?”

Riku: Good morning, Ai. Did you get home safely yesterday?

Ai: "Don't you remember?"

Riku: My mind was perfectly fine until some point.

Ai: “I got home just fine. There's nothing for Riku-san to worry about."

"It was a really enjoyable time."

Riku: Oh... That's good to heat. I was so worried something might have happened, I couldn't just sit tight.

Hearing that makes me relieved—

Ai: "If you ask me if something had happened…. You kept calling yourself 'big brother'."

Riku: Huh? Who said what?

Ai: “A dead drunk Riku-san titled himself my big brother."

Riku: !

Huh...? Eh... woah...

I didn’t remember at all. Not in the least, but somehow... My face just got noticeably hot.

Riku: Um... By the way, I didn't force Ai to call to do the same, did I...?

Ai: "No."

"Like I told you. You’re worried for nothing."

Riku: Ah... I'm so glad. I was so embarrassed that I thought for a spilt second I'd have to quit Aporia.

Ai: "I'll make you stay. While I wouldn’t call you big brother unless I was forced to…”

"To me, You're someone I can rely on without hesitation."

Riku: …..

Ai: "I'll continue to rely on you."

Riku: ......Haha. The pleasure is all mine.

At Roka’s spontaneous idea to gather everyone, naturally, some members couldn't make it. Even so, more than half showed up. After enjoying the chocolate fondue mountain and having a fun time with the Stick Snack event, it inevitably turned into a simple drinking party.

Shinobu: Wow, it's the Legend Table!

Kamiya: Totally. When these members gathered at the same table, the greatness of Aporia's history feels incredibly heavy.

Riku: Haha. A legendary table, huh?

Kiho, Sei, Mika, and me. We didn't particularly anticipate this, but before we knew it, we were all sitting at the same table.

Soyogu: All except for Roka-san, who has been moving around a lot this whole time.

Kiho: A fixed seat is pretty much a foreign concept for Roka.

Shinobu: Just a moment ago, he was talking with Yura and Yashiro-san, and now he’s having a great time with Yuzuru-san and Akke!

Takeru: Just leave him be and he’ll waltz here eventually. Although he’ll probably accompany another seat soon.

Sei: Fufu. The time when everyone gathers after work and enjoys drinking reminds me of the old days.

Takeru: The frequency and duration were nothing like now. We would always drink until morning before a day off.

Riku: At first it was just a "small talk," but halfway through there were a lot of times when we were like, "What are we even talking about?"

Kiho: That's why, usually, nobody remembered a thing the next day. I guess that's just how conversation goes in the midst of the drunkens.

Takeru: On the other hand, is there anything you remember?

Sei: Well, if I had to pick a topic that left an impression on me... Ah. When we talked about the sophistry of tarot cards, that was quite interesting.

Kiho: Ah, yes. That did happen.

Soyogu: The sophistry of tarot cards?

Sei: Everyone present at that time was wondering if we could somehow connect everything to tarot cards.

Riku: Ah, I think I remember how strangely exciting that was.

Shinobu: You have my attention! What was it like?

Sei: It’s like a game where you linked very superficial information, such as names or occupations, to cards.

Riku-san happened to be drinking 'Napoleon' at the time, so he was assigned the role of "Emperor."

Kamiya: That's more of a stretch than I thought.

Takeru: Roka’s full name is "Suoh Roka". And there happens to be a card named “Fool” (Oroka)

Soyogu: Ah... Now I see why anego sometimes calls Roka-san a "Fool."

Kiho: It may have been completely a spur-of-the-moment idea from a drinking session but their personalities actually match the cards surprisingly well.

Kiho: It goes without saying for Roka, but Riku's Emperor is sure something.

Riku: There you go again, Kiho. Aren’t you too good at getting people hooked?

Takeru: I mean… Before Ai-chan came, Aporia had an emperor, right?

Shinobu: Two emperors, huh? Not just the Watchdog Dept. Head, but there was a history of the old and the new there too.

Riku: Come on now. I'm afraid a far-fetched Emperor born from a drunkard will be on par with His Majesty.

I'm merely a vassal serving that splendid and reliable Emperor. He's so reliable that there's not much for me to do, though.

I said that as just a lighthearted remark while drinking…. And yet….

Riku: How about I chime in and help with negotiating the conditions?

Ai: "No, I will take full responsibility."

Riku: ………….Huh? Sei, you drank with Ai?

Sei: Yes, it was the other day.

Actually, there was something I was asked to obtain. I suppose you could say that it simply just occurred right after I handed it over.

Also, it seems like this is a pretty busy month for Main Office. Not only Ai-kun, but also Yashiro-san and Yuzuru-kun. Their workload has gotten a bit heavy…

That’s why I've been asked to help out as well.

Kiho: Are you lonely?

Riku: (Huh, isn’t this feeling...?)

……..

Riku: !

Shinobu: Wow! A perfect timing. Good work.

Kiho: I thought you'd be heading straight home upon hearing there was a party tonight.

Ai: I had something to do so I came back to the office.

Roka: Welcome back, Aiai! I've been waiting!

Yuzuru: If you'd like, why don't you join us for a little while?

Ai: ……………….This won't be long anyway. It's almost time for Manami to arrive.

Riku: But we'll still be able to drink together, right?

Ai: Well, I suppose so.

Urara: ---Hey, how long are you planning to keep this up? I’m about to start cleaning your mess now, so go home already.

Yuragi: It's already time.

Sei: Shall we call it a night then?

Yuzuru: Yes, we should.

Shinobu: Ehhh, I wanna drink more!

Soyogu: Let's help with the cleaning and have a second round.

Kamiya: I'll start from this side.

Akehoshi: Okay, I'll handle this way~

Urara: For the love of GOD, don't you dare touch anything. Just get your asses home.

Riku: (They may have been drinking, but these kinds of reactions really show their individuality.)

While watching their colorful interactions, as I was about to prepare to leave….

Ai: ---Riku-san

Riku: Yes?

Ai: Do you still want to join me for drink?

Riku: Well, I don't have to get up early tomorrow, so I feel like I can keep going.

Ai: Then please keep me company a little longer.

Riku: ………Sure, let's have another round.

Riku: ---As usual, looks like everything's fine with no major problem.

My regular meeting with Ai proceeded smoothly, and once we finished discussing the main topics, I spoke what I had decided to tell him.

Riku: By the way, my counseling work has finally calmed down after all the hustle and bustle.

Ai: Oh, really?

However, let's postpone the drinking appointment for a little while longer. I'm sorry, but I'm the busy one this time.

Riku: Understood. Well, see you later. Let's have a drink when we have time.

Ai: "Sure."

Riku: (So he remembered our vague promise about drinking.)

(That's what's so endearing about him.)

It would have been the most heartwarming feeling I could ever imagine.... If Sei’s words from the other day hadn't crossed my mind.

Riku: …….

The feeling of "I can help too," and what Kiho said about "letting go of little brother." Those thoughts surfaced simultaneously—and I was at a loss for words.

Ai: …..

Riku: Drinking isn't going anywhere, so let's do it when we’re vacant.

Ai, what are you doing after this?

Ai: I have plans to go out.

Riku: Well, it's still early, but today's meeting is over. Make sure you eat lunch properly before you go.

Yuragi: Ah.

Riku: Hmm?

As soon as I left the reference room, I caught sight of Yuragi and Ito. Yuragi stared intently at my face.

Yuragi: The sweets Riku got for me before were delicious.

Thank you.

Riku: I see. You're welcome.

Yuragi: I want more.

Riku: Then I'll buy some soon.

Ito: Oh, I also liked that one. I was thinking of bringing some as a gift when I buy some for myself.

Riku: (………………That’s very considerate of her.)

Riku: Thanks. But can you leave that to me?

It's a shop I pass by when I go to see clients, so it's convenient.

Ito: ….Thank you.

Just in case, I already know my portion has just been included, so please refrain from doing so.

Yuragi: As for me, I still want the "Yuragi's portion".

Ito: Huh?

Yuragi: Ito, you don't have to be so reserved.

Riku: Three portions: one for everyone, one for Ito, and one for Yuragi.

Ito: Um, please don't just reach to a conclusion on your own...!

After hearing Ito out, ultimately, it was decided that her portion wasn’t necessary.

Riku: Okay, next time I will get the biggest one for you.

Yuragi: Thanks, Riku. Looking forward to it. I want to eat it soon.

Riku: Okay. Sometime soon.

Actually, I have no urgent business here anymore... But can you go out for me a bit?

Yuragi: ! I'll be waiting.

Ai: No need to. Geez... Look what happened when I just zipped my mouth and listened quietly.

Riku-san, I always say this, but let me say it again. You spoil the staff too much. Just because there's a bit of an age difference doesn't mean Kanno is your grandson.

Riku: If you’re looking for an excuse to call me grandpa, quit it.

Ai: And when did I say that?

If you're going to change your original plan just because it's not urgent, all for the sake of a gift that can be bought anytime, then let me say that you’re going too far.

Don't you have some personal matters that you've been postponingf? Where’s the "once work settles down" now?

Riku: I've already taken care of it, so it's okay. Thanks for your concern.

Is there anything you want, Ai? I'll buy it for you while I'm at it.

Ai: ......I’m good.

The moment Ai sighed in exasperation, the office door burst open as if to drown out his sigh.

Roka: --Hey, it's me!

Ito: ! Hello.

Ai: Shut up. Start over from the door and open it quietly.

Roka: As much as I’d love to comply, time is of the essence right now!

Riku: You’re not calm at all. What happened?

Roka: "Chocolate Fondue Mountain" or "The Stick Snack Tasting event". Which one should we hold tonight!?

Ai: ……Excuse me?

Ito: Tonight...?

Yuragi: Chocolate does sound nice.

Roka: I see. But what if the Stick Snack also has chocolate in it...?

I guess we should go with "both" then!?

Riku: It definitely sounds like you already have the answer in your head.

Roka: Now that’s decided, we have to get ready!

Ai: Do it yourself without involving other people.

Roka: Okay, will Riku help me?

Riku: Sure, sure. I was just about to go shopping anyway, so I'll join you.

Ai: ………………. Hahhhh.…..

The reason I met up with Kiho was because we had a work-related matter to discuss. But while we were here, I also checked in on how Ai was doing and mentioned that I had entrusted Yuzuru with some snacks.

Riku: ("Maybe I'm being a little too overprotective...")

Kiho: I don't know the details, but I understand why Riku cares so much about Ai, given all the circumstances.

Even putting those circumstances aside, I know that you dote on Ai like a younger brother. You guys get along well after all.

That being said, you’re still a bit overprotective.

You really don't need to worry so much. Ai is doing just fine. And I know for sure you’re already aware of that, so it's probably a matter of feeling.

Riku: ...Yeah. Of course I know.

You said it's a matter of feelings… I guess that's true.

I absolutely want to avoid a situation like that one time, when I was too busy to fully support Ai as he was overworking himself.

But that doesn't mean I think Ai is someone who can't do anything without me.

Kiho: You really do trust him.

Riku: Yes, I do.

Hearing me declare that out loud, Kiho smiled.

Kiho: ……………I wonder if the time has come for Riku to become independent from his younger brother.

Riku: ……….

You thought so?

Kiho: Well, hypothetically speaking.

But if you want a conclusion right here and now, I think that could work.

Riku: I completely agree with that.

Kiho: Are you lonely?

Riku: I indeed am.

But me letting go of younger brother also means him letting go of older brother…… Well, I don't think it's right to just title myself older brother, though.

But if that means Ai can be less troubled and distressed….

Of course, happiness outweighs loneliness. There’s a lot to gain.

Though I'm still lonely.

Kiho: Haha. There you go again.

Riku: It's okay. I don't think it's that big of a deal.

I chuckled lightly, thinking about how the sentence "I mentioned it twice because it's important” didn't apply this time. Shortly after, I tilted my glass.

Riku: ………….Huh? Sei, you drank with Ai?

Sei: Yes, it was the other day.

The day after I had a light drink with Kiho. The topic came up in a casual conversation with Sei when we met at the office. My reaction was slightly delayed. Besides the fact that it was a relatively unusual topic, I hadn't heard anything about it.

Sei: Actually, there was something I was asked to obtain. I suppose you could say that it simply just occurred right after I handed it over.

Riku: May I ask what it was?

Sei: Coffee beans. I gave some to Ai-kun before, and he said he’d like to give the same thing as a gift to a business partner.

Riku: Ah, coffee….. I see.

Sei: Although it wasn’t planned, we still had a very enjoyable time. Since I don't get many opportunities to drink with Ai-kun.

Also, it seems like this is a pretty busy month for Main Office. Not only Ai-kun, but also Yashiro-san and Yuzuru-kun. Their workload has gotten a bit heavy…

That’s why I've been asked to help out as well.

Riku: At Ai's request?

Sei: Correct. As a matter of course, I readily agreed on the spot.

Riku: I see…….

(......He had every valid reason to ask Sei for help… But it's not like it absolutely had to be Sei, was it?)

Not that I can say anything about it, though.

Riku: ……

This event took place after 'Interlude I'

Riku: ---Yes. I'll take care of it before I come over.

After finishing a call with the client, a missed call notification appeared on my phone.

Riku: …..

I called back, and he picked up almost immediately.

Riku: Ai? Sorry, you called me, right?

Ai: "I was just about to send a message saying that it’s not urgent, so you can call me back when you have time.”

"With that said..."

Riku: In that case, please go ahead.

After checking that there was still some time before checkout, I closed the laptop I had started for work.

Riku: Hey. You refrained from contacting me because I’ve been busy lately, right?

Seeing you contacted me despite that, I thought it must have been something important, even if it wasn't urgent.

Ai: ……

Riku: Could it be about the new appointment that I couldn't attend yesterday?

I had a conversation with Kiho last night and he mentioned that Ai would like to talk to me.

Ai: "That's the matter."

"I received a request from Yashiro Togo to act as the investigator."

Riku: …..I see.

Ai: "After consulting with Kiho-san, I've decided to accept the request. It will be treated as an ANC case, which I will be in charge."

Riku: (So Ai oversees a case involving Yutaka-san?)

It did bug me a bit, but once I thought about it again, I realized that was precisely the reason why he felt he couldn’t entrust it to anyone else.

Riku: (Maybe it’s more like “he doesn’t want to” rather than “he couldn’t”)

How about I chime in and help with negotiating the conditions?

Ai: "No, I will take full responsibility."

"I may be in charge, but as always, I'll ask Yuzuru to assist me."

"In the unlikely event that I feel I like can't make a calm judgment or negotiate, I'll ask Kiho-san for his opinion."

Riku: ……

Ai: "I fully intend to ask for any necessary help. There's no need to worry."

"Just like what you've been nagging me about all along." I felt like I could hear the unheard preamble. The corner of my mouth turned up slightly.

"When your hands are free, there are plenty of other tasks I'd like to ask you to do. Please let me know when things have settled down."

Riku: (His Majesty is truly reliable.)

Okay. Then I'll leave it to you.

I feel a little lonely knowing that you don't think I need to worry.

Ai: “Didn’t I just tell you to inform me once you’re vacant enough to talk about work?"

Riku: That's what I wanted to say here. Is there anything else you'd like to talk about?

Ai: "Nothing urgent."

Riku: Understood. Well, see you later. Let's have a drink when we have time.

Ai: "Sure."

We exchanged vague promises without further discussion and the call ended there.

Riku: (......Something "not urgent", huh?)

(Ai's been busy every day, so it might be a while before we can have a drink together... But even if it's not a leisure drink meet-up, maybe it would be better to make some time soon. I'll try to adjust my schedule.)

(Just to be sure, I'll ask Yuzuru and Kiho about Ai's situation first.)

A few days later.

Riku: Here, a souvenir.

Yuzuru: Thank you.

Upon returning from my business trip, I went straight to the office. I had already been informed by the person himself that Ai wasn’t present, and Ito had already left. So, I handed Yuzuru, who was preparing for bar service, a souvenir and asked him briefly about what he'd been up to.

Riku: (Including the matter of Togo-san’s visit, it seems everything is alright for now.)

---By the way. This is a gift for Ai.

Yuzuru: Black tea? That’s Ai-san’s favorite.

Riku: I highly doubt this will happen but if you get the feeling Ai is forcing himself, make him drink this and stop him at once.

Yuzuru: Ahaha. Understood.

Riku: Oh. Is it this late already? I had a drinking appointment with Kiho.

Sorry to interrupt work, I’ll be going now.

Yuzuru: Yes, thank you for the souvenir. Take care.

Kiho: ---Maybe you are being a little too overprotective.

Riku: ….Eh?

The Leader's Side Profile

Part 1

On the way back to the office after finishing some business—

Ai: Riku-san, who might that be?

Riku: A customer from the café I "invited" here.

Ai: …..

Boy: Um... H-Hello.

Ai: Hello.

His age is probably around 5 or 6 years old. He couldn't have come to the café alone.

Ai: (Something must have happened to the people accompanying him, or a problem arose between them and the boy and Riku-san stepped in to help...)

Riku: Sorry for acting on my own.

Ai: It’s okay.

Riku: It’s really wonderful that Sota-kun knows how to greet people properly.

Sota: ………………Really?

Riku: I mean it.

Oh. Now that I think about it, didn't you say earlier at the café that you can eat tomatoes now?

Sota: Yeah, that's true...

Riku: You can even try things you're not good at, that’s so cool of you.

Sota: !

You see, I have also gotten used to bell peppers.

Riku-san's words brightened the boy's face.

Ai: (......He knows what he’s doing.)

Despite being surrounded by unfamiliar adults, the boy showed no sign of being bothered. In fact, he seemed quite attached to Riku-san. Their conversation never stopped even while we were waiting for the elevator.

Upon arriving at the office, we bumped into Onda who dressed in unusual attire.

Tomose: Riku.

These are the pancakes you ordered. I've included what you requested.

Riku: Thank you.

You really outdid yourself with these pancakes. Hey, Sota-kun, what do you think?

As he gestured for the boy to sit on the sofa, Riku-san pointed to the pancakes.

Sota: Wow, smells nice...

Riku: A spell will be cast on these pancakes.

The true nature of the spell is probably what Onda mentioned earlier. Something Riku-san had "requested."

Ai: If you need a helping hand, I'll call someone.

Riku: It’s alright. A powerful ally has just rushed to my aid.

Tomose: ……

Ai: ………

Riku-san wore a smile and fixed his gaze on......

Riku: I’ll be counting on you, Ai

Part 2

Ai: (What kind of situation is this...?)

An excited child, and Riku-san who seemed to be enjoying something. In front of me lay pancakes and a chocolate pen.

Riku: Ai. If you're going to practice, use this.

With that, Riku-san handed me a piece of paper with hastily written notes on it. "Came here with mother and younger brother." "Sibling quarrel."

Ai: (I can more or less grasp the situation now, still….)

Riku: Sota-kun, what would you like to see on your pancake?

Sota: On my pancake...?

Riku: If you have a request, just tell this guy. He'll draw it for you with chocolate pen.

Sota: Eh? With chocolate pen!?

Riku: Isn't that amazing? He is very skilled.

Before I could answer, Riku-san smiled proudly for some reason.

Sota: Anything?

Riku: Of course. After all, he's a genius when it comes to drawing on pancakes.

Sota: Wow...!

The boy looked up at me with his shining eyes.

Ai: (He didn’t need to butter me up like that. Given the circumstances, I will cooperate anyway. Still…)

Riku: Come on, don't be shy, try asking for something.

Sota: Hmm, then... Uhhh...

Ai: Do you like animals?

Sota: Eh?

Ai: It can be an animal you've seen before, or an animal you'd like to see someday.

Sota: Ah! A panda. I've seen one eating bamboo at the zoo.

Ai: Sure.

While sketching a rough draft in my mind, I picked up the chocolate pen.

Riku: Huh? You start with the eyes?

Ai: That way, the overall balance is maintained.

---At first, I was unsure about how much force to use, but once I got the hang of it, there was no problem.

Riku: Wow, that's awesome.

In no time, a panda happily eating bamboo was created!

Ai: There are two pancakes left. What's your next request?

Sota: Yay! Just a moment, let me think about it….

Riku: …..

Oh, I forgot to order some drinks. Sota-kun, would another orange juice be alright?

Sota: Okay.

Riku: I think I'll have coffee. Do you want the same thing, Ai?

Knowing Riku-san, he probably "forgot" to order on purpose. He must have been waiting for the right timing to go and check on the boy's family at the café area.

Ai: (On top of that, he also sought confirmation from me.....)

Receiving the unspoken consideration and trust all at once, I nodded nonchalantly.

Ai: Yes, please.

Riku: Okay.

Then, hang on tight.

As the door closed, the boy who had been watching Riku-san's back suddenly called my name.

Sota: Um, Ai-san... Can I ask you something?

Ai: Sure.

Sota: Are Ai-san and Riku-san siblings?

Part 3

Ai: Are we brothers?

The unexpected question made me just repeat his inquiry. The boy nodded politely and smiled before saying, "Am I right?"

Ai: No, we're not related by blood.

Sota: Um, you are not?

Ai: ......We’re just similar in some respects, I suppose.

Sota: I see. Must be nice, Ai-san.

I wish I had an older brother like Riku-san. Someone who’s kind and plays with me a lot.

Ai: …….

Certainly, having someone like Riku-san as an "older brother" is an invaluable experience.

But relationships, not just between siblings, where one person constantly takes care of the other or endures things, tend not to last long.

Sota: .....But since I'm the older one, I have to put up with lots of things.

Even if I want to read a book, I have to play with my little brother. Mom always tells me to be a good role model...

As he spoke, he lowered his small head. Soon, a sniffling sound could be heard.

Ai: (So this is the cause of the quarrel.)

…..Being told you have to act a certain way because you’re older or younger brother is something that only happens when you're a child.

Once you become an adult, like Riku-san and me, relationship naturally change.

Sota: …….

Slowly raising his head, the young boy gazed at me with his little eyes. They were filled with a mixture of bewilderment and doubt, along with a small glimmer of hope.

Ai: As one grows, a younger brother can also come to want to support an older brother.

Sota: ……………I see.

Ai: Yeah.

---After finishing the magical pancakes, the boy returned to his parents.

Riku: The mother looked like she was about to burst into tears when she saw them fight. Her face was also like that even earlier.

Although I knew it was none of my business, I invited Sota-kun to the office anyway...

Riku-san tilted his coffee cup and looked up at the sky.

Riku: But I guess it all worked out. The mother seemed to have calmed down and was able to take some breather.

Thanks for keeping him company, Ai.

Ai: I didn't do much, but I'm glad if I could be of help.

Riku: Oh, it's pretty unusual for you to be this humble.

You did show off your artistic skill, didn't you? When I went to pick him up, he was quite attached to you.

You were a good older brother for him.

Just like when he was in front of pancakes and a chocolate pen, Riku-san wore a proud smile.

Ai: Same here…

Riku: Hmm?

Ai: I'm glad Riku-san relied on me.

Riku: Because I knew Ai would surely respond to situation.

The Leader's Back

Part 1

With a cup of coffee he bought from a nearby food truck in one hand, Shinobu sighed, looking utterly exhausted.

Shinobu: I'm glad the discussion went smoothly.

I really expected nothing less from you, especially when you made them say either "yes" or "okay” and nothing else.

Riku: Not really. It's because I had such a strong ally like Shinobu.

The people I was negotiating with just now were those involved in the case that the Watchdog Dept. had been handling until recently.

Riku: (I bet they never imagined their proud son would be that mischievous...)

Shinobu: Those parents were incredibly intimidating, weren't they? They kinda resembled Ai-san in a way.

Riku: ...You think so?

Shinobu: Perhaps it was because the conversation progressed based on facts, without getting bogged down in emotional arguments.

Riku: Oh, I see. In that sense, they might have been similar in nature.

In any case, having Shinobu there really couldn’t reassure me more. Thanks.

Shinobu: There you go again! The way you can say things like that so naturally and casually is what makes you "Riku-san."

Riku: Showering me with praise, huh.….. Is there anything you'd like me to buy for you?

Shinobu: Nyahaha. Now that was quite a response.

Ah. But, if I'm going to take you up on your offer...

Riku: Something for Aporia guys? I was thinking of stopping by Hapido, what do you think?

Shinobu: Woah, amazing...! Riku-san, are you a psychic by any chance?

Riku: Hmm? I mean, Shinobu, you have a shift later, right? Not to mention, Kamiya is also here today.

Shinobu: Sheesh, that’s Riku-san for you. Being considerate in all directions and treating everyone equally.

Riku: Well, I love everyone at Aporia.

If we're talking about someone who is truly unbiased, it's probably Ai. He doesn't really have any likes or dislikes for people and he’s fair to everyone.

Shinobu: ....…….I see?

Riku: (Haha. Looks like he doesn't get it.)

Not changing his attitude based on the other person's position or title. Treating everyone as equal. ---That's the kind of person Kosaka Ai is.

Riku: (That's why people naturally gather around him.)

Ai: Thank you for your hard work. I'm glad everything went well.

But if it was just a report, instead of coming all the way to the office, wouldn’t a call or Chattas suffice?

Shinobu: ……

Shinobu gave me a questioning look. As for me, I couldn't help but let out a small chuckle—Thinking about how Ai was still Ai at the end of the day, I opened my mouth.

Part 2

Riku: Simply put, I wanted to report while looking at Ai's face. Also, I wanted to bring some treats for everyone.

Ai: Treats?

Shinobu: It's Hapido! We also got a less sweet version for Ai-san.

Ai: …..

Riku: You need a sugar boost for some brain labor, right?

Ai: That's not the problem here.

“And you already know that, don't you?”, Ai's gaze pierced straight at me. I nodded back and directed my eyes and nose to the box of Hapido before asking, "Want some?"

Ai: I'm going out now, so I'll have some later.

Riku: Got it. Be careful.

Ai nodded with a sigh and left the office.

Shinobu: I wonder if something happened to Ai-san.

Riku: Did he seem to be in a bad mood?

Shinobu: He seemed rather cold, kinda.

I don’t really get an impression that he would say something like “You don't need to come all the way to the office to report..."

Riku: Ah, what he said earlier... That was just his thoughtfulness.

A call or Chattas would have sufficed…. Also known as “you don’t have to come all the way just to give me some treats”?

Shinobu: Oh, I see...!?

Riku-san just mentioned that he treats everyone equally, no matter who they are. Was that one of the examples?

Shinobu said with a slight smile on his lips, sounding somewhat impressed.

Shinobu: Still, I feel like Riku-san is in a "special case" for Ai-san.

Riku: Really?

Shinobu: I mean…. If it were the usual Ai-san, as long as it wasn't harmful to himself or Aporia, I don’t think he would say something like that.

Had it been just me, I’m sure he would have just ignored what I said, or dismissed it with a simple "do as you please."

Riku: ……..

Shinobu: I see, so that was considered a consideration for Riku-san.

Riku: (Ai pretty much knew what’s up, so he pointed that out…)

Even so, the fact that Shinobu saw me as "a special case" made me feel a little ticklish.

Several hours later. Ai returned to the office after finishing a meeting.

Riku: Welcome back, Ai. I have been waiting. I’m just thinking we could go home together.

Ai: …….

Seeing Ai open his mouth as if to say something, I continued ahead of him.

Riku: I wasn't just simply killing time, you know? I handed over the treats, tasted the new menu items...

And helped out with Yuzuru's work, since he suddenly had to deal with another matter. Also, Ito’s work.

Ai: …..

Riku: Also, that meeting... It's about that matter, right? I want to hear the report while looking at Ai's face.

Ai: ......I see.

Riku: Judging by your reaction, it went well without a hitch, right? Shall we raise a toast then?

Ai: I'll pick the location.

With a huge sigh, the venue Ai chose was—Surprisingly (?), his own place.

Part 3

As I sat on the living room sofa, Ai returned with a bottle in his hand.

Riku: ! That label...

Ai: I knew you would notice. It’s a gift from a business partner.

Riku: Sure, it’s perfect for a celebratory toast, but... You sure about this?

Ai: Of course. Riku-san will probably appreciate the true value of this whiskey more than I do.

I'll go prepare some snacks.

Riku: I'll help.

Soon, glasses and whiskey, canapés Ai had prepared, and salmon carpaccio I had made were laid out on the table.

Ai: I didn't even know there was salmon in freezer.

Riku: It must be from Yuzuru, we’ll have to thank him later.

Ai: Ah, I see.

Ai nodded, he seemed more relaxed than usual judging by his tone. His fork then reached for the carpaccio—

Riku: How was it? Did it suit your taste?

Ai: It's good.

Riku: Oh, I’m glad to hear that... Well, it’s a given that I tasted it beforehand, but still...

Ai: Your skill isn’t bad, no need to worry so much.

Riku: Oh. You sure said something nice.

But when it comes to serving it to other people, I still get worried. I guess the only way to get better at this is through practice.

Ai: I'll practice with you as much as you need.

Riku: Haha. That's reassuring to hear.

Even though we're drinking. Knowing Ai, he’s completely serious.

Ai: …..By the way, Riku-san.

Today is your first day off in a while, isn’t it?

Riku: Correct. Although it'll be over soon.

Ai: I’m aware this may not be something I should say after I consulted with you about the follow-up process.

But you're spending too much time at Aporia.

Riku: Huh…?

Can I interpret that as, "you should spend more time on yourself"?

Ai: ……….

Riku: I’m grateful for your concern. But I'm really fine, I only take on things I can handle after all.

Not to mention… If my motivation is simply wanting to see my cute "little brother's" happy face, that means I've already spent time for myself, right?

Ai: What kind of logic is that?

Ai didn’t give in to my sweet-talk nor did he deny it. The words I exchanged with Shinobu suddenly flashed through my mind.

Riku: If we're talking about someone who is truly unbiased, it's probably Ai. He doesn't really have any likes or dislikes for people and he’s fair to everyone.

Riku: My logic holds water partly because of Ai, though.

Ai: I doubt it holds a thing.

Riku: Really? But it's Ai who makes me feel like an "older brother."

Ai: ………..

Geez, I really can’t with you….

Translation by Kalos (@Kumonkunliker on X)

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5

👑🥃👑🥃👑🥃👑🥃👑🥃👑🥃

Hi hello im sorry for replying so late since I require VPN to enter tumblr so I only did it once in a while to post translations. Thank you for reading it.

There may be other places but you can find the compilation here

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/18sMwANgT3pUFwc_G5eBh3E8xPExr7R09PZXgi6DKaN0/htmlview#gid=1249479118

Ai: …….

I suddenly opened my eyes at the sound of repeated vibrations. Before I could think about how long it had been muted, I tentatively reached for my ringing smartphone.

Ai: (...... Riku-san?)

Good work today.

Riku: "Oh, were you sleeping? Sorry for waking you."

Ai: I'm just working in the office. Calling me at this hour, what's the matter?

Riku: "Ah, that’s a bad boy behavior. I'm glad I called."

Ai: Excuse me?

Riku: "Just a surprise check-up."

"Yuzuru is off today, so I don’t think there’s a situation you need to say something like ‘You go home, I’ll do the same.’ Thus, I figured you might still be there.”

Ai: I see……

Riku: "After 1 AM on a weekday it’s bedtime for adults, you know? I'm already sleepy here."

Ai: Then don't just go and make random call like this. Please get some rest.

Riku: "I know you’re sleepy too, Ai. Enough to accidentally doze off in the middle of work."

Ai: No, I wasn’t.

Riku: "Your voice sounded like you'd just woken up, though."

Ai: …………….

Riku-san laughed as I remained silent. In his voice, I could hear the quiet sound of slippers lightly scraping the floor. I vaguely felt a sense of relief, realizing that even someone as busy as him was home at this time.

Riku: "Since Ai is still here at this hour, it must be work that can't be done tomorrow. Is it so bad that you can't even get a nap?"

Ai: I'm almost done, so I'll go home once I'm finished.

Riku: "If you're almost done, why don’t you get some sleep before then?"

Ai: Understood. Good night.

Riku: "You don't really mean that, do you? Are you feeling alright?"

Ai: Nothing’s wrong, sir.

Riku: "Are you able to sleep when you really want to?"

Ai: ......What’s this? Medical examination?

Riku: "Like I've said many times, I'm not a doctor. Just someone who’s worried about you."

"The same way Ai cares about Yuzuru, Kou, and everyone in Aporia."

Ai: ……………….And I'm sure I've told you a few times.

If anything happens, I'll consult with Riku-san.

Riku: "So you're okay now?"

Ai: Yes, I am.

Riku: "Good. I'll hang up now, but if you plan to keep going, just take a nap first."

"When I imagined you rubbing your sleepy eyes while working, I got so worried that it’s really hard to sleep soundly.”

Ai: I don't have such delicate nerves, do I?

Riku: "I’m just a cheeky adult who’s concerned about sensitive young people, unlike myself.”

Ai: Need I remind you that we’re only 3 years apart? There's no difference between two people over 20 that warrants such a distinction. There's no need to worry, please just go get some rest.

......Like I said. Understood.

Riku: "Oh. Now that's a response from someone who actually understands."

Riku-san laughed again and wished me a good night as if to seal the deal. That’s when the call ended.

Ai: (That call seriously woke me up to some extent. But if I keep going like this, it will be over by morning...)

(Indeed, continuing to work while efficiency is low is nothing but a waste.)

Ai: (30 minutes... Well, I guess an hour will do.)

Ai: …….

The moment I set the timer and lay down on the sofa, my body suddenly felt heavy. The bracelet on my wrist came into my vision, and before I could even think about taking it off, my eyelids drooped.

Ai: (......Ah. I need to talk to Riku-san about next week's shifts. I should have asked him on the phone earlier.)

(Well, whatever. I'll probably have a chance to talk to him at some point tomorrow. Even if it's not for work, he'll probably call me for some reason...)

…………

A quick-witted, caring, and sociable person. Always concerned about those around him, naturally offering support. He doesn't mind doing things "for someone else" at all. Even though that’s his nature, there's no denying that he cares about me in a special way.

Ai: (......There's nothing for Riku-san to gain from this at all.)

No matter how many times I think about it, I can't understand. However, no matter how much I ponder, I don't think I can understand everything about Riku-san.

Ai: (......”That's just how others are”......)

Kosaka’s Father: ......That's why…. Not being able to understand each other isn't a reason to give up.

In the corner of my increasingly uncertain consciousness, I heard a voice that revived without a need to search for it.

I felt relieved that I could still remember.

Kosaka’s Father: Humans cannot live alone. Nothing can be accomplished alone. I believe that individuals are part of what constitutes things.

Therefore, I want to aim to live with other people.

As someone involved in the politics of this country. As someone entrusted with a part of everyone’s future...

I want to be sincere to others, and to myself. That has always been on my mind.

He was full of pride. I wanted to carry on his legacy. Precisely because I hoped so…..

???: "......I can imagine you're confused by the sudden news. I'm really sorry to say this at a time like this, but..."

"A note from Kosaka sensei and his wife was found at their home after their passing."

Ai: …….Huh…..?

"I am deeply ashamed to leave like this without fulfilling my responsibility to explain."

"Kosaka Ai has absolutely no involvement in this matter."

"--Ai. I'm really sorry."

Riku: It's okay to have doubt, Ai. To make up for that, I will believe.

Ai: ….Eh?

Riku: Your father isn't the kind of person who would do something that would make you lose your pride. No matter what Ai thinks, that's what I believe.

Ai: ……..

Riku: If you think, "I'm the only one who has to believe," I advise you to stop.

"I want to believe" is enough.

The words I heard with my own ears. The facts I've seen with my own eyes. I don’t believe what I've been proud of was a lie. I want to believe. That’s why I'll ascertain it. I won't entrust it to anyone. I won't give in. Even if the day comes when I'm betrayed by the consequences of this choice, I don't care. Rather than doubting my own pride and regretting not being able to fully believe— I'd much rather be ridiculed and told, "You were a fool to believe."

Ai: (………………Ah.)

The scent was different from both the bedroom and the living room, reminding me that this was the office. Just as I was about to check the time, I felt something running down my cheek as I reached out my hand.

Ai: …….

I wiped it off like nothing before turning off the timer, which had 5 minutes remaining. Just when I stood up…… I noticed something was wrong.

Ai: (......Is anyone there?)

Ai: ! Riku-san......?

Riku: Oh. Rise and shine.

Ai: What exactly are you doing?

Riku: Call it two-factor authentication.

Ai: Excuse me?

Riku: I just happened to be near Shibuya when I called earlier, so I dropped by just to see Ai completely asleep.

Since I had come all this way, I thought I might as well make a quick visit and go home. So I waited while doing some work.

Ai: No matter how I listened to it, that definitely sounded like a call from home.

Riku: Did I lie? It's still nearby, right? Just one train stop away.

Ai: Haaah... The trains have already stopped operating, don’t tell me you came all the way here by taxi?

Riku: Nope, it was the car I borrowed from Kiho. I was actually planning to return it tomorrow.

Ai: If you're coming, please let me know next time. What would you have gained if I had already left?

Riku: Then it wouldn't be a surprise inspection, would it? I mean, if you weren't here, I would probably be like, "Alright, he's not here."

Ah. I already replied to the questions Mika had on the core members' channel. Also, the meeting scheduling Yuzuru had been checking on, and a few other things—I answered what I could.

I've mentioned Ai too, but let me take over anyway. Only speak up when you have something to say, okay?

Ai: (......So you've pretty much cleared everything.)

Understood. Thank you.

Riku: Now what's left?

Ai: I have a contract-related matter I want to finish by tonight. It can be done in an hour.

Riku: Okay. Can I do some completely unrelated work here until that's finished?

Ai: I'll really go home in an hour even without you supervising me.

Riku: It’s more like for the sake of having you keep an eye on me. I tend to slack off at home, you see.

Ai: ......Do whatever you want.

Riku: Many thanks.

Ai: Haah….

Riku: Were you dreaming about something?

Ai: Huh?

Riku: When I peeked in, you were mumbling something unusual in your sleep.

Ai: …Not really.

Riku: I see.

Are you okay?

Ai: What do you mean?

Riku: I just asked because I was worried. Don't lie now. You’re going to make this even more confusing.

Ai: I’m really okay.

Riku: That's good to hear.

Well, even if you didn't say anything, I’d meddle anyway if it looked like it wasn't okay to me.

Either way is fine. Do what you feel like.

Ai: ……….

I see. Understood.

Riku: That's not a very understanding tone.

Ai: I understood that I was told I could do whatever I want and relied on you if I must. And that’s exactly what I'm doing.

Other than that, I still don't understand.

Riku: What do you mean by "other than that"?

Ai: I don't know what you were thinking when you made that promise.

Riku: ......You think I have ulterior motive?

Ai: I'm saying this because that very possibility seems unlikely.

Riku: Haha.

Well, it goes both ways. There are plenty of times when I don't know what Ai is thinking either.

Ai: You’re the last person I want to hear that from.

Riku: I said what I said. I really don't understand people at all.

There's no way a person who desperately wants to understand everything can possibly understand everything, right?

Ai: ..... I guess so.

Riku: That's why it's okay.

There is an appropriate way to behave in everything. It means adhering to the rules of the world and position one belongs to, and behaving neither excessively nor insufficiently. To varying degrees, in modern times, this is generally considered the correct way to behave everywhere. What is right is beautiful, therefore, the value of anything that deviates from it diminishes.

Humans are by nature believers in and embodiments of righteousness.

Everyone strives to become more righteous. Just as perfect sophistication is sometimes described as madness….. Everyone is vaguely aware that "perfect righteousness" based on a single rule is nothing but lunacy.

After I discarded the first match, which had completely burned out, into the ashtray, I started to light the second match. Instead of flame, I used the heat to carefully char the cut surface. Not long after, smoke and aroma rose quietly. To someone unfamiliar with this, it would seem incredibly leisurely. But that's precisely why I find this process beautiful.

Incoming call: Shido Ryo

Kyoya: (......Ryo-kun. Is this a long call? Well, if we get to that point, I can just hang up.)

Hello.

Ryo: "Ah, Kyoya. Good work. What’re you doing now?"

Kyoya: Just relax at home.

Ryo: "I see. Am I interrupting? My bad, but thanks for picking up anyway."

Kyoya: Sure. What's the matter?

Ryo: "I want to ask about your plans for tomorrow. School is closed, right?"

Kyoya: I don't have any work at Aporia either, so I'm thinking of going out. Nothing concrete yet, though.

Ryo: "Really? In that case, would you like to go to Maria's recital?"

Kyoya: Maria's recital... at the Symphonia Hall? Tomorrow?

Ryo: "Yes. The 2 PM performance."

Kyoya: Hmmm... If there are seats available, sure. But didn't you say it was incredibly difficult to get tickets this time? Since it's her first visit to Japan in several years.

Ryo: “That's certainly true, but... Kasumi has caught a cold, so she's been in bed since yesterday."

Kyoya: Oh. That’s rough, she was really looking forward to it. Is it a bad cold?

Ryo: “She's fine, the fever has gone down and she has gotten better. But she’s going to stay home this weekend as a precaution."

"But the tickets would end up being nothing but pieces of paper, so I was hoping to find someone who could go in our places... You may not be as into it as us, but I'm sure you’re also interested, right?"

Kyoya: Yeah. The venue is close by so I shall take up on your offer. Have you decided who to give the other ticket to?"

Ryo: "I’m thinking of Kazuma. Why don’t you guys go out for dinner afterwards?"

"I would be pleased if you two took a picture together and sent it to me."

Kyoya: I don't mind. But tomorrow is Saturday. Kazuma-kun is probably busy, isn’t he?

If it's like usual, I think the 'visits' are booked up from opening time until night.

Ryo: "Ah... I guess that's true."

“Is there anyone else you'd like to invite, Kyoya?"

Kyoya: Let's see...

(Someone who seems interested in this kind of thing, and who I could have a pleasant conversation with—)

…..Ah.

A certain someone came to mind.

Ryo: "Really?"

Kyoya: Yes. I've never met him outside of work, and I don't know if he's free.

But it doesn’t hurt to ask.

Fortunately, the "person" in question said that he’s free during the day and accepted my invitation.

Staff: --Please enjoy your time.

Kyoya: Thank you.

After the performance. Since there was some time before the next appointment, I invited him to relax at a hotel lounge near the hall, seeing that he wanted to kill time somewhere. Sitting across from me, Ai-san looked more satisfied than usual as he sipped the coffee that had been brought to him.

Kyoya: That was a good performance.

Ai: Truly.

Kyoya: Since her performance in Italy two years ago, there still seems to be mixed opinions about the change in her approach to music.

Ai: It's been several years since I last heard her perform live, but I felt she's definitely much better than the last time I heard her.

Kyoya: Definitely better, you say?

Ai: She's a pianist with unparalleled talent, one of a kind in the world. Her technique and expressiveness have always been impeccable.

But, in recent years, she seemed to be constrained by the idea of ​​"innovative interpretation with one’s own freedom.”

But I never once felt that restraint in the sound today. It was worthy of the title "The World's Most Captivating Piano."

Kyoya: ......I see.

(This person really is something else.)

His words weren’t borrowed or makeshift but based on his own thoughts and ideas. Invited by Kiho-san, I joined Aporia about half a year ago out of curiosity. The job with Negotiation Dept. has certainly been interesting, but so far, my biggest reward is being able to meet him.

Kyoya: That's great to hear. My brother and sister-in-law who gave me the tickets would be happy to know that you enjoyed yourself.

Ai: I know this might not be an appropriate thing to say after the show was over, but are you sure I was the right person to give the ticket to?

You could have invited someone else. If you and your siblings both like Maria Vega's piano, then the rest of your family should be familiar with classical music too.

Kyoya: Speaking of which, the middle one likes it too, though not as much as the oldest and I.

He’s helping with father's work, so he’s always busy on weekends. That’s why it's difficult for him to make some time on short notice.

Ai: Is he working under an organization that requires socializing even on weekend or holiday?

Kyoya: I wouldn’t say so. My uncle took over Shido Corp., so now the only one helping him out as a successor is the oldest brother. He also wants me to join if I feel like it.

The middle one is helping out with a business that my father started himself.

Ai: Some other business, you say?

Kyoya: Ah. Now that you mention it, I've never talked to you about this, Ai-san.

It's a religion.

Ai: …….Religion?

Kyoya: Yes.

Ai: …………..

Ai-san’s reaction was difficult to read, but he nodded slightly and took a sip of coffee to regain his composure.

Kyoya: (......He seemed surprised, but I felt no negativity in his face or voice.)

It did seem like that wasn't my imagination. As soon as his eyes turned towards me, urging me to continue, I decided to elaborate further.

Kyoya: Even though that’s what it’s called, it has a relatively casual atmosphere, mainly consisting of counseling like giving advice.

My father who’s the leader is affectionately called "His Holiness" by everyone.

Ai: Does Kiho-san know about this?

Kyoya: Of course, even before joining Aporia. I even mentioned it briefly to Kou-kun.

Ai: I see. I’m starting to wonder if it’s a kind of group with some sort "teachings".

Kyoya: Haha. Don't worry, it's not a suspicious organization. It has gone through every process to become a company.

Ai: It’s not like I was skeptical or anything. If Kiho-san brought you here fully aware of that fact, then there shouldn't be anything concerning.

I'm just asking this to learn about Shido as a person.

Kyoya: You want to learn about me personally?

Ai: I believe that ideology is the foundation of everything. Humanity, sociality, behavior, way of life. Everything.

No matter how unrelated they may seem, they are always based on that foundation.

Kyoya: (......Ah, I see. So this is how he’s like.)

The wavelength doesn’t match. The rules that had been established and the aimed perfection are probably different. But—This person stands on the same ground as "Shido Kyoya."

Ai: If you're in a leadership position within an organization and you're going to manage people, it's always best to know the characteristics of the individuals who belong to it. That's all.

If you’re not comfortable enough to answer, I won’t force you.

Kyoya: No, not at all. If you're interested, I'd be happy to answer.

The group's name is Shinki (信己). Written like "Believe in Yourself." (己を信じる)

They listen to the voices of those who are lost and troubled, and convey the message that "There may not be miracles from God in this world, but every person holds a miracle within them.”

Ai: …….And what do you think of that teaching?

Kyoya: For me, it would be wonderful if such statement was true. But my mind hasn’t changed since I was a child.

Ai: ….I see.

Kyoya: I only attend the gatherings a few times a year as a member of the head priest’s family, so I'm not very familiar with the internal. As I said earlier, I can assure you there's nothing illegal about it.

Ai: .....So you're not interested?

Kyoya: Huh?

Ai: Based on the qualities I grasp from you, I don't think it's something you’re "unsuited" for.

"Teaching and guiding people. Influencing them with words" That overlaps considerably with the work of a teacher.

Kyoya: ……..

Ai: Above all, considering your usual behavior, I don't think you would let go of or give up on something you strongly desire.

The fact that you aren't involved simply means that you just don’t want it.  

Kyoya: ......Haha. I see.

That's right. I was once asked if I would be interested in becoming the leader.

But I refused. The reason was exactly as Ai-san said.

I simply do not possess any desire to become the head of religion.

Ai: ……..

Kyoya: I really mean it.

Kyoya: ---My father's work is admirable. Of course, I respect him.

But, you see…. I still don't understand. What is so painful for everyone? Why do they worry about such things? Why is simply having someone listen to them a source of relief?

A religious leader who cannot empathize with people's hearts is far from perfect or ideal.

I have no intention of becoming such an incomplete being.

There is nothing there that I want, nor anything I particularly want to see

Ai: ……

Kyoya: Therefore, I will never become a leader or follower in the future. Please rest assured.

I believe faith is a noble and valuable thing, but there are many other things in this world that are even more interesting to me.

Don’t you think so?

Ai: ………………I guess.

I met Ai-san’s gaze directly, completely taking it in. I really found that pair of eyes appealing. The eyes of someone who gives something a profound thought. Should I tell him, "I'm also interested in you"? I wondered for a moment and swallowed that thought along with my tea. I made sure not to deviate even slightly from the correct behavior in this situation.

I really thought I had died that day.

Roka: ---Seriously, nothing I do works.

No matter how much I keep looking for them, I can't find anything I can do anywhere. I don’t care anymore.

???: You don’t care anymore, huh?

Roka: I can only betray myself and those who believe in me.

It's best for me to do nothing... It would be better if this useless me didn't exist in the first place.

???: ...Roka, do you only want to do what you can?

Roka: ….Eh?

???: Just as there are things that could be gained by doing only what you can do, there are results that can only be yielded by "tackling what you can't do."

Whichever way you choose, there are pros and cons. No superiority or inferiority. No right or wrong.

Roka: No superiority or inferiority... No right or wrong?

???: That's why I think you should come up with your own answer.

As someone living their own life, you should choose what you want to choose. If there's nothing you want to choose, you don't have to force yourself to choose. That’s also a choice.

Roka: ......Not choosing is also a choice... I had never even thought about that...

......Have you ever made a choice like that?

???: Plenty of times. In fact, it's rare that I was able to choose something so clearly.

Roka: ….! Then... I'll do that!

???: Eh?

Roka: I'll do what I can't do. And when I can't choose, I'll choose not to choose.

From today onwards, that will be my answer!

As long as I can become like you... I'll do anything. I'll look ahead and nowhere else. It's going to be alright. I've been reborn—from the useless me.

Roka: ……..

Last night, I slept with the window slightly ajar. Welcoming the incoming breeze, I slowly inhaled.

Roka: (......Ah, I'm sure blessed. The sky is clear.)

Roka: Ngh~……

I don't really remember it, but I think I had a sweet dream. My body still felt a little heavy from the fatigue of my journey, but even that in itself was somehow refreshing.

Roka: ---Yeah! It really is a good morning!

Shinobu: Oh, Roka-san! Good morning!

Roka: Morning, morning~☆

Shinobu: How was it being in your own bed for the first time in about two months?

Roka: It was the best! I fell asleep in 5 seconds and had a really good night ☆

Shinobu: Ahaha, not far from what I had expected at all~

Yesterday, shortly after you returned to your room, I called out to you, but you didn't respond.

Roka: Oh, my apologies. You could have woken me up, you know?

Shinobu: I was about to head to the convenience store and asked if you needed anything, that’s all. I bought the usual stuff just in case, though! I thought you might want to drink something when you woke up in the morning.

Roka: Something I want to drink in the morning... Don't tell me it’s… *that*!?

Shinobu: Ta-da! A probiotic drink~

Roka: Shino~! I couldn’t ask for a better roommate...! Let's have a toast!

Shinobu: I'd be glad to.

Roka: Now that reminds me, it's unusual to see Shino in the kitchen in the morning. Is it your day off today?

Shinobu: Yup. Yesterday, after closing time, we were having a tasting for the next dress-up event and I got some leftover bread. A slightly expensive, sweet loaf of bread.

Roka: Sweet loaf of bread!

Shinobu: I was thinking of baking it before eating. How about we share?

Roka: As tempting as that sounds, you can just enjoy yourself with it, Shino. There won't be much left if you share it with me, right?

Shinobu: That's perfectly fine, half-half is just the right amount! Come on, I already have butter and condensed milk ready. Let's eat!

Roka: Fantastic! Okay, don’t mind if I do.

Shinobu: Yay! I'm going to start baking now!

Roka: Then I'll get the plates!

Shinobu: Oh, please find a big one. Because today….... We also have ham!

Roka: ! Ham that requires a big plate...? Could it be...

Shinobu: ......As expected of Roka-san, you're as sharp as ever.

We’ve got a huge one.

Roka: Wonderful!!!

Shinobu: Nyahaha. Love your full-on reaction….... Huh? Roka-san...?

Roka: Hmm?

Shinobu: I mean…. Is it just me or something's kinda different than usual... Hmm...?

Roka: ? What's wrong, Shino? You gonna make my heart race if you keep staring with those sparkling eyes.....

Shinobu: AH!!?

Roka: Wha-!? W-What?

Shinobu: R-Roka-san... Your cheek.

Roka: My cheek? Oh, maybe it's slimmed down a bit and made me look more handsome?

Shinobu: The mole on your cheek! It's gone!

Roka: Eh? ......Ahh! You’re right, that was careless of me!

Shinobu: Careless…? Don’t tell me it was makeup all along!?

Roka: One mystery about the mysterious Roka-san has been revealed at last.

Mirror… Mirror... Ah, thank goodness. There's still a trace left! This should be here... Um, I think it's around here...

Shinobu: Are you looking for makeup tools there? I think you will only find stationery....

Eh, no way!?

Roka: Found it! I'll just do this... *tap*☆

Roka: There ya go!

Shinobu: Permanent marker...!

Roka: Usually, I touch it up as soon as I notice it's fading a little, but this time, my usual favorite marker ran out of ink while I was traveling.

I was planning to add it back as soon as I got here, but I ended up taking a shower and fell asleep almost right away.

Shinobu: Oh, really...? Not gonna lie, that really surprised me. It's been quite a while since I met Roka-san, but it's been there right from the beginning, right?

Roka: I've been doing this for a long, long time. Whenever it fades, I just add it, over and over again.

Shinobu: That sounds like a key secret of making sauce.

Roka: I see, so this is my secret mole! Sounds cool, let’s go with that narrative from now on.

Shinobu: Your secret mole, huh? You must have grown accustomed to it. It really does suit you~

Roka: That's a great honor! To tell you the truth, here’s the secret of this mole I have been hiding... It is to match the one the person I admired has.

Oh. Well, I did say match, but basically, it’s just a copy.

Shinobu: Your admired person... Ah! …..Wait, no? That's not right.

Roka: Hmm?

Shinobu: I thought you were talking about Kiho-san, but his mole is on his mouth, right?

Roka: Ah, that's correct! Kiho’s one is here.

In addition to cheek, I actually wanted to add his part as well. But when I asked for permission, he flatly refused with "absolutely not."

Shinobu: I see what’s going on now.

Roka-san always talks about how cool Kiho-san is. Since I often hear you say that you want to be like him, it’s only natural my mind jogged to him when I heard you mention someone you admire.

Roka: Of course, I also admire Kiho! But this person with the cheek mole... is my hero, and someone I’m indebted to.

Shinobu: A hero?

Roka: Yes. Someone I've always wanted to be like.

I am who I am today because of him.

Shinobu: ......I see. Sounds like a really wonderful person.

Roka: Yup! I'd like to introduce him to you guys someday.

Shinobu: Oh, bring it on! I really want to meet Roka-san’s hero.

Roka: (…Ah.)

Oh, never mind that! I'm sorry for giving you false hope.

Shinobu: Huh?

Roka: He's very, very far away, so it's a little difficult for him to come visit Aporia at the moment.

Shinobu: Ah…..

Oh, really? That's a shame!

Roka: But instead, I'll tell you all about him and introduce him perfectly!

The kind of person he is, what he's done, how he helped me as a hero...

However, that would be quite a long story. Maybe another time when we’re really free.

Shinobu: Nyahaha, must be a real epic one. I'm looking forward to it.

Roka: Go ahead and have high expectations.

Born in any era, still resonating in people's hearts no matter where—

That's what this heroic tale is all about!

Mother: My sweet, sweet Mommy’s boy, U-kun…. Take care.

---Bye-bye!

A hopeless woman in the eyes of the innocent kid still looked like a mother. That was the last thing I received from her. Like an idiot, I cherished it just like I was told.

Father: Urara. Hand it over.

Urara: Why?

Father: You’re already in elementary school. There’s no need to play with building blocks anymore.

Urara: But this.... This is U-kun's precious-

Father: Refer yourself with "I" (boku).

Urara: Ah…..

Father: I already told you to stop calling yourself "U-kun," didn't I? How many times do I have to say that you need to act like everyone else at school...?

Urara: Uhn... But…..

Father: Don’t "but" with me ….Daddy already taught you, right? I’m taking care of you properly….... Is it still not enough? Why do you always act like that...?

Oh, of course, that should not come as a surprise when you have something like this.

Urara: ! No... No, stop it! Give it back! That’s U-kun's-!

Father: ! ---SHUT UP!!!

*Thud*

Urara: …..!? ….Uhuuu….Fngghuuuu

UWAAAH!! It hurts...!

Father: It's... It's all your goddamn fault! You still carry it around everywhere, are you trying to spite me or what!

How long are you going to keep holding on to something like this!!

Urara: Ah! That’s U-kun's thing! Why did you throw it!? Daddy, STOP!

I HATE YOU!!

Father: !

Urara: *hic*….. I hate you… It hurts... Mommy…..

Father: ……..

......What the hell?

Now I'm the bad guy, huh.....

Urara: (….Daddy…?)

Father: Haha.... Why...... I was just...doing things properly…... All for Urara’s sake.

Urara: Daddy..... Does your hand hurt?

You can hug U-kun. It'll get better-?

*Slap*

Father: Don't touch me.

Urara: Eh…?

Father: That's enough...

I’ve had enough.

Urara: …..!

Ha... Haa...

Having risen with great force, my body slumped forward due to shortness of breath. I put my hand on my forehead as my throat tightened and I found myself struggling to breathe. There was no blood. And it didn't hurt. Just a dream.

Urara: …..Fuck…

All the sweat made my clothes annoyingly sticky, I had no choice but to get out of bed.

Urara: (I need to change... Nah, let’s just take a bath...)

Despite such thoughts on my mind, my body felt too heavy to do anything, so I ended up resting on the sofa. I hesitated, wondering if I should go get the tea from the refrigerator…. But I didn't feel like moving even an inch.

When it was discovered that the woman I once called "mother" had another man besides my father, what seemed like a normal, happy family suddenly fell apart in one single day. She had been involved with him since before the marriage, I later heard from a gossipy relative that my father threw up on the spot when he was informed that "Urara might be that person’s child." If that were true, my father had no obligation to raise someone else's child… much less the child of paramour. Yet he took me in, saying he would "raise me with responsibility." With a ridiculously strong sense of responsibility, he couldn't stop being a "nice guy." Too kind-hearted to blame others, instead, he chose to blame himself. Despite being an ordinary person, he compared himself to a handful selected few who had it better than him and inflicted suffering upon himself unnecessarily. And it’s precisely because someone like that tried to raise a child alone— It was inevitable that my father would breakdown.

???: …………………It seems Hisashi-san finally reached the point where he said, "I can't do this anymore."

???: I really had no idea he was pushed this far...

???: After things didn't work out with Seira-chan, we hadn't had any contact with him at all. But I heard some good words from those on mother-in-law side, like how he and his work seem to be doing well.

Hisashi-san was trying his best, but Urara-kun... He was cherishing only the presents from Seira-chan, almost as if to spite him…. He kept wanting to eat "Mommy's cooking."

Hey, you have to hear this! Despite everything, Seira-chan still refused to take custody of Urara-kun. All because she moved overseas and started a new life with her boyfriend.

???: OMG!? You've gotta be kidding me.

With her cute and friendly personality, she'd always been spoiled. She was doted on excessively to the point where she was called a cute cheeky devilish girl, but... Isn't what she did just plain devilish?

???: To be honest, it’s not like I didn’t guess she would turn out like this... I really feel sorry for Hisashi-san.

???: Same here, but we also have our own trouble. We have our own children too, so we can't keep looking after him forever.

Urara-kun is a good kid, but... At times, I was reminded again that he's definitely Seira-chan's child. Like how he asks for things a lot, or how he's always trying to cling to people.

I just can't help but feel a little uncomfortable. Honestly, it’s just hard to find him cute.

Urara: ……..

A hated demon whom no one protects. A child born from such a person. No matter what he does, there's no way he'll be accepted. That’s why I decided to live with the assumption that I’m unloved. Because getting hurt every time is pointless.

Urara: (......Come to think of it, Shizu sent me the materials for my next job before I went to sleep.)

I wasn’t sleepy anymore anyway. I reached behind me and grabbed my phone on the bedside...

Urara: Huh?

"3 LIME messages"

Urara: ………

"Urara!!!!!" "I got some really delicious strawberries, so I was thinking of bringing them tomorrow, but guess what!!!!!" "Strawberries are actually vegetables!?!?!?!?!?!"

Urara: ……..

Urara: How the hell am I supposed to know?

Don't you dare come over.

Moron.

Urara: (What kind of thoughts must you have while living your life to send such a stupid LIME messages...)

Roka had sent it two hours ago. Naturally, I assumed he would be asleep. However, a few seconds later...

~ ♪

Urara: !

(A phone call... Huh?)

….tch.

Roka: "Oh. Hello, Urara? It's me!"

Urara: What time do you think it is, blockhead?

Roka: "Sorry, my bad. But I was so happy that you replied to my message!"

"Staying up pretty late tonight, aren't you? Don’t tell me….. You have something exciting and fun planned for tomorrow ☆?”

Urara: Pipe it down. Course’ not, I was just sleeping earlier.

Roka: "I see. So, you're awake now."

Urara: ……

At Roka's sudden change of tone to a softened one, my body trembled. I hate this voice of his. Especially at times like this… The one differs from his usual deadly annoying loud voice.

Roka: "Can't sleep?"

Urara: ….Shut up.

Roka: "I see."

It's irritating, like having salt rubbed in the wound.

Roka: "Can I come over and hang out?"

Urara: Hell fucking no, dumbass.

Roka: “…….”

Urara: What good would it do for you to come over anyway? Useless, incompetent fool like you.

Roka: "I can't do anything, but I can stay awake with you who cannot sleep, Urara.”

Urara: ......And who asked you to? You're just going to be a hindrance. For the love of God, are you like an authentic idiot in a genuine sense?

Roka: "No need to ask because I’m more than willing to. I've decided that's what I'm going to do!"

Urara: Stop your crappy self-satisfaction at this instant.

Roka: "Hehe! No matter what anyone says, this is one thing I won't compromise on ☆"

"As part of Urara’s family, I made a promise that I wouldn't leave you alone."

Urara: …………………… Yachiyo didn't even ask you to make such a promise, that’s all you. The hell with that promise anyway?

Roka: "It's not a promise with Yachiyo-san but something else entirely."

"It’s a promise I made to Urara."

Roka: I'll never ever leave you alone.

Would you let me be part of your family?

Urara: (......Why is this guy always like this? Has he no shame...?)

How am I supposed to know that bullshit? Seriously, damn you...

Roka: “Besides!”

“Watching over you as you grow up healthy and strong is the most important mission in my life and my greatest joy.”

Urara: (---Ah.)

At those words that Roka said so proudly, my body, which had begun to relax, tensed up again.

Urara: ....I guess so.

All you ever do is “watch” anyway.

Roka: "............Huh?"

Urara: I don't know what’s the deal with you. And I didn't ask you to help me. Go do whatever you want.

Roka: "Ah... Wait, Urara!"

Urara: What is it? There's nothing worth talking about anymore. I already told you not to come.

Roka: "...Okay. If Urara doesn't want to, then I won't."

Urara: ………..

(......See?)

He never felt like coming right from the start.

Roka: "Then... Have a sweet dream. Goodnight."

Urara: ......Get lost, dimwit.

---Do not call me again.

Ai’s special day

Part 1

Never have I neglected my health. Be that as it may, all the effort does not guarantee a complete avoidance from a certain condition.  A common cold, that is.

Ai: …*cough*

(The fever is not that high, but this cough still won't go away.)

April 15th, weekday—As far as I was concerned, I didn't see a need to take a day off and rest, but I still refrained myself from going to work regardless. However, my hands were still clearing the necessary tasks within reasonable limits.--Just enough for the guys at the Main Office not to tell me not to overwork myself.

Ai: (That's all the documents I need today.)

I glanced at the clock and reached for my smartphone on the table. That was when I noticed a new notification on LIME.

Ai: (Yuzuru?)

When I called in sick this morning, I received replies saying, "I'll come pick up some documents at lunchtime," and "Is there anything you'd like to eat?" It should be about time for him to arrive, so I thought that was what another message was about. Just as I was about to open that message…..

Ai: (Already?)

Soyogu: What do we have here, still looking fine and all.

Ai: ……………………Hah?

Soyogu: Is it okay that I parked my bike next to the bike parking area?

Ai: Hey. Where's Yuzuru?

Soyogu: Did you hear my question?

Ai: Yes, you can. Now answer mine.

Soyogu: Acting all high and mighty as per usual, huh…. 

Yuzuru-san couldn't get off his shift. And Nina-san, who was supposed to cover for him, had to deal with another matter.

Ai: So that's why you came.

Soyogu: I can't exactly take over the kitchen duty, can I?

Ai: I see.

The notification I just received must have been the explanation for this. His selection process was questionable, but I kept that to myself and turned on my heel without saying anything.

Ai: The documents are over here.

Soyogu: So you want me to come and get them?

Sheesh... Hey, I'm really going to enter your territory now, okay?

Soyogu: Also, take this. It's something Yuzuru-san entrusted to me.

Shinkai put the documents I handed him into an envelope, then with great force, shoved me a plastic bag full of contents. Looking inside, I spotted standard get-well gifts like sports drinks, the fruits I like…. Also, a pouch of rice porridge.

Ai: (Did he buy these before his shift?)

Soyogu: By the way, that pouch is meant to be microwaved, not heated in boiling water.

Ai: I’m not so dumb not being able to see that. What do you take me for? 

Soyogu: I just relayed the message as it was. Don't pick a fight when you haven't even received an invitation for it. 

Ai: Not showing basic respect to me is the same as asking for one.

Soyogu: Now you’re just spouting nonsense while making it seem like that will land on your lap out of nowhere.

Ai: It’s called common sense, genius. 

Just tell Yuzuru that I already received the gift. Don't utter anything beyond that.

Soyogu: I might if Yuzuru-san asks me to, though.

You don't need me here anymore, do you? I'm getting out of here.

Ai: Make it quick.

---It was immediately after that.

Ai: ……………….

All of a sudden, the sound of rain violently beating against the window echoed throughout the room.

Part 2

Ai: (--Can it get any worse than this?) 

When I slightly opened the curtains, it was pouring outside the window. I let out a big sigh in the room filled with an odd silence.

Ai: Only until it stops.

Soyogu: Yeah... I'll do that.

That being said, it seemed the unspoken intention of "don't get the documents wet" was mutually understood. Shinkai quickly settled down on the sofa. Without minding much, I put what I got in the refrigerator.

Ai: (The forecast didn’t say it’s going to rain. That's probably why he came with his cross bike.)

(Then this won't last long.)

Suddenly feeling thirsty, I opened the refrigerator and grabbed a bottle of barley tea. As I prepared the glass, I glanced at Shinkai and noticed he was so engrossed in reading a book I didn't recognize… It must be what he brought along.

Ai: (His presence is certainly distracting, but if he stays quiet like this, I guess it’s not a bother.)

(......Never mind, this dude is still too big and gets in the way of my field of vision.)

Ai: Hey.

Soyogu: Huh?

Ai: If you wanna drink, then drink.

Soyogu: ......Barley tea, right?

Ai: Anyone can tell just by looking.

Soyogu: From you? For me? ......Did you put something weird in?

Ai: Excuse me?

Even if that were the case, it wouldn't affect you anyway, would it?

Soyogu: Depending on what you put in, that might not be the case, though.

Hey, you wouldn't go that far, would you? I mean, if the guests were someone like me, you'd probably even make them pour the tea themselves.

Ai: ………………..

I can so much as give appropriate hospitality to anyone who comes on an errand. That's all.

Whether it's you or someone else. No double standard.

Soyogu: Hmmmm.

Ai: What?

Soyogu: For someone in a leadership position, that side of you isn't bad, but it has come to my attention again that your underlying arrogance basically ruins the whole thing.

Ai: Get lost.

Soyogu: Would love to but the rain said otherwise.

I immediately cut off the conversation with the man who gulped down the tea despite all those utterly ridiculous complaints. That way, no more topic of conversation would occur. In the room, which had regained its tranquility, only the sound of heavy rain echoed.

Part 3

Soyogu: (---Is it still going?)

The rain, which I thought would stop soon, continued pouring surprisingly long. And I was about to be done with the book I started reading in Kosaka's room.

As I looked up to check the time, our eyes suddenly met.

Ai: I’m sure it will stop by the time of your proxy request.

Soyogu: Huh?

Ai: Your job starts in the evening, doesn’t it?

Soyogu: You seem to know a lot.

Ai: Obviously, it's a request from my connections. I'm also taking the lead in the preliminary investigation.

Soyogu: !

(If this dude is involved, it must be a pretty important case.)

(Since he's from the Main Office, it’s very likely he’s involved in the selection of the members—)

(For a significant matter like that, he chose me?)

Thinking that far, I recalled the conversation from earlier.

Ai: I can so much as give appropriate hospitality to anyone who comes on an errand. That's all.

Whether it's you or someone else. No double standard.

No matter who it is, he’s fair and square when it comes to evaluation for work. Putting weight into his own judgement in his own arrogant manner.

Soyogu: (He’s probably not the kind to play favorite…. Even with me.)

(As long as the work is done, there’s no problem… I don’t hate that kind of evaluation. It gets straight to the point and makes things easier for me.)

Ai: ….What is it?

Soyogu: Nothing. Just thinking about the request.

Ai: If you want to be completely prepared, that's fine. Just don't do anything that would embarrass me.

Soyogu: Who do you think you are talking to?

The rain stopped just as I finished the book. Since there’s no reason to linger anymore, I quickly prepared to leave.

Soyogu: I'll stop by the office again, any message you want to pass?

Ai: No. I'll meet Yuzuru tonight anyway.

Soyogu: Don't summon him when you're sick.

Ai: We had a dinner appointment originally. The man himself already said, "If it's not a bother, I would love to join you even in that condition."

......He told me he wanted to celebrate on the very day. It's a special occasion after all.

Soyogu: (Does that mean…..)

Kosaka, is today your birthday?

Ai: Yeah.

Soyogu: Hmmm, at the very least, I'll say happy birthday.

Ai: That's a good attitude for someone like you.

Soyogu: I'm pretty unbiased even in that regard, you know?

Even if it’s toward someone like you.

Ai: But you’re talking to me and that’s still not enough in my standard. Show some respect.

Soyogu: And in my standard, it's already neither too much nor too little.

I left the entrance while arguing with him, not to the hostile extent.  The sky was so clear that I almost thought the heavy rain from earlier had never happened.

Soyogu: (That dude really ended up seeing me off all the way to the front door.)

(A fitting action, I suppose.)

Translation by Kalos (@Kumonkunliker on X) Misora (@alcmisoyou on X) Imai (@bunnyandcomet on X and tumblr) Aca (@463ce6 on tumblr or @463ce6 on X) HMU (@hispereia on Discord)

Togo: ……Don't push yourself. Feel free to sleep. Ito: You said that again. I told you I'm not sleepy, I'm wide awake. I’ll be fine. Togo: You don’t have to stay awake just because I said so….is what I mean. Ito: Same goes for Togo-kun. Don't push yourself too hard. You can tell me if driving gets too hard for you. I'm always available to take over. Togo: I will let you know when it gets tough. Ito: ….Which is very likely you won’t say a thing. Togo: Haha. Last year, I was going and coming back alone. Just having you sit next to me makes a huge difference. Well, if I look like I’m about to doze off, wake me up by saying something that can keep my eyes peeled. Ito: What kind of story would wake you up anyway? Togo: Something shocking maybe? Ito: ………………. How much shock can you take?

Togo: What do you mean by that? Ito: No, sorry. That’s a poor choice of wording from me. Togo: I take back what I said. Ito, if there's anything so shocking that you'd like to tell me, do it when the car is parked. Ito: It's okay. There's really nothing. Togo: Not at all? Ito: Not in the least. Togo: Is there anything troubling or bothering you? Like work or stuff. Ito: Dad asked me the same thing, but no. Togo: What did he say? Ito: Nothing in particular. Just “Oh, I see.” Togo: You're as nonchalant as ever. I'd ask for confirmation since I’m so persistent. Ito: Ahaha. Togo: I'd rather be seen as a persistent older brother than seeing you bearing everything on your own. Ito: I've never once thought of you as a persistent older brother. Togo: So it’s more like an annoying brother? Ito: You know I wouldn’t say that and you’re still asking? Togo: It’s fine, then. Ito: ………………Togo-kun Togo: Hmmm? Ito: This New Year, I had to turn down a lot of invitations from my coworkers because I had plans to go home first. Takoyaki party, New Year's shopping spree, mochi eating party, small New Year's party, etc. Togo: All different genres, but they all sound fun. Ito: Yeah. I just thought maybe I brushed it off without doing enough explanation…… But. Like I said, right now, I'm really doing okay.

By Misora (@alcmisoyou on X)

Riku: —It was cold outside, right? Come in, come in.

Yuzuru: Please excuse us…… Ah! Everyone is already here.

Kyoya: We had just arrived too.

Ai: Happy New Year.

Kiho: Happy New Year, let’s work together this year too.

Riku: Once again, thank you for coming today.

It truly makes me happy. I know you guys might’ve had other plans, but you guys chose to visit me at my house early in the year.

Ai: There’s no way we wouldn’t come when you were whining about how you were feeling very lonely because you couldn’t come to the year-end party and meet anyone at all.

Riku: Isn’t whining a bit too much?

Kiho: It wasn’t exactly too much, that’s why Ai and Yuzuru couldn’t bear to watch you and planned this meeting up, even invited me and Kyoya-kun to join, right?

Ai: Correct.

Riku: Right.

Kyoya: Haha, even so, catching influenza at the end of the year is such a misfortune.

Have you completely recovered?

Riku: Thankfully. Or rather, my condition has gotten better since last year. That’s why I’m going to drink alcohol today.

Kiho: Glad to hear that it didn’t drag on. By the way, why don’t you two take a seat?

Riku: Ahh, sorry, come sit here. Let’s open the champagne Kiho and Kyoya bought for now.

Kiho: I’ll open it. Can I take whichever glasses?

Riku: Feel free to take whichever you like.

Ai: Yuzuru.

Yuzuru: Yes. Riku-san, this is from me and Ai-san.

Riku: Ahh, I already told you that it’s fine to come empty-handed, but thanks.

Ooh, what a delicious looking osechi…… Is this perhaps handmade by you, Yuzuru?

Ai: He made it using some ingredients and cooked it in a way which will help Riku-san recover faster.

Yuzuru: I couldn’t make enough varieties to fully fill the bento box though. Ai-san paid for the ingredients.

Riku: Ehh, Yuzuru…… You took the time and effort for me? Do you perhaps……

Ai: No.

Riku: That’s too fast.

Yuzuru: Ahaha.

Kyoya: As expected from Yuzuru-kun. It also looks beautiful. Is it okay if we also have some of it?

Yuzuru: Of course. However, I’m a bit nervous wondering about whether it’ll suit Kyoya-san’s tastes or not.

Ai: You don’t need to allow the guy who complains to eat it.

Kyoya: I won’t do that.

Kiho: Sorry for the wait.

Riku: Huh, don’t I have 5 champagne glasses?

Kiho: You should have it diluted in water for now, Riku. I’ve bought the whisky you like.

Here’s' are your ice and water.

Yuzuru: I’ll make it.

Ai: Yuzuru, that’s enough.

Yuzuru: Eh? Sure.

Riku: Ai, that amount obviously only gives color and flavor to it.

Ai: Having those is enough.

Kyoya: You just recovered after all.

Riku: You two are only at sync during this kind of time.

Well, fine. I can feel the great love behind this.

Kiho: Good for you, Riku.

Riku: It truly is. I’m a happy person this year too.

Kiho: Well then, let’s have a toast.