taymarican

Grabbing it from the rack, you added it to the pile of clothes you’d picked for yourself and headed to the dressing rooms. The velvet curtain whispered shut behind you, enclosing you in a quiet little space with a single mirror framed in warm lights. The changing room felt cold and sterile as you slipped into the dress, carefully pulling it over your body. It should have fit perfectly—after all, you’d picked it out. It was your choice. But as you zipped it up, a knot tightened in your stomach.

The fabric clung to your body in ways it shouldn't have, and not in a flattering manner. It sat all wrong on your bosom, the seams straining against the curves of your chest, barely able to close. You tugged at the zipper, trying to pull it up the side, but it caught painfully against your side, tugging uncomfortably at the soft roll near your bra strap.

You stared at yourself in the mirror, your reflection unfamiliar. The dress, which had seemed so perfect on the rack, now felt like a cruel joke. The skirt, meant to be a silhouette, flared out over your thighs in a way that felt mocking. It hung awkwardly around your thighs in a way that made your legs look thicker, not more elegant. Your belly, which you’d always been conscious of, seemed to bulge in ways that felt out of place, unnatural against the black silk. The faint shimmer of the red accents only seemed to draw attention to the areas you least wanted highlighted.

What is wrong with me?

The voice inside your head was loud now, relentless.

I don’t belong in this dress.

Your fingers clenched the fabric at your sides as a wave of self-consciousness washed over you. The dress wasn’t the problem—it was you.

The mirror seemed to mock you, reflecting back every feature you’d learned to hate over the years. Your belly, round and soft, pushed against the fabric. Your thighs looked larger than ever, the material refusing to lie smooth. Your arms, left bare by the sleeveless design, felt exposed and unwelcome in the polished setting of this boutique.

As you stared, echoes of the past began to surface, unbidden and cruel. Your face twisted into a frown as you turned from side to side. The more you looked at yourself, the more you hated it. The reflection staring back at you seemed foreign, as though it was someone else’s body you’d somehow ended up in.

"You’ve got such a pretty face; you’d be stunning if you lost a little weight,” your mother’s voice chimed in your head, the way it had so many times over the years. Well-meaning, she’d always called it. But the words had planted themselves deep in your heart.

"Are you sure you want seconds?” a friend’s teasing voice from a high school cafeteria, laughing as though it was just a joke. It hadn’t been funny then, and it wasn’t funny now.

"I’m just saying, you’d feel so much better if you exercised more," someone had told you once, their tone dripping with condescension disguised as care.

Your friends in high school, laughing when you couldn’t fit into the trendy outfits they wore, saying, “Oh, don’t worry, you’ve got such a cute face!”

The offhand comment from a coworker last year: “Have you tried keto? I heard it’s great for people like you.”

Your father, well-meaning but always critical, pinching your belly and saying, “You’d be so much prettier if you lost all this fat.”

The memories compounded until your chest tightened with a mix of anger and shame.

God, I look disgusting in this.

And now, in this too-small dressing room with this too-tight dress, those voices joined your own as you whispered to yourself.

"I look ridiculous. Why did I even think I could pull this off? Sylus wouldn’t want to be seen with someone like this. Someone like me."

Tears pricked at the corners of your eyes, but you forced them back. Crying here would be too much, too embarrassing. You turned away from the mirror, pulling at the dress, wanting nothing more than to get it off. Your breathing hitched as the panic rose, your nails biting into your palms to keep yourself steady. But the tears were already threatening to fall.

The curtain separating you from the world felt as thin as paper and just as fragile. The muffled murmur of boutique shoppers and the faint hum of music didn’t penetrate the storm of thoughts swirling in your head. The dress felt tighter by the second, suffocating, and your own reflection stared back with an almost accusatory glare.

Why did you even think you could look good in this? You were out of place, weren’t you? Not just in the dress, but here—here in this boutique, in Sylus’s world, in his life. The idea of walking out of the changing room, of standing in front of him and seeing that ever-present smirk falter for even a second, was unbearable.

Your fingers fumbled at the zipper, trying to undo it, but your hands were shaking too much to find the tab. The fabric bunched awkwardly around your side, pinching and pulling in a way that only made you hate it more. Hate yourself more. A sharp inhale turned into a shaky exhale as your vision blurred with unshed tears.

He’s going to see right through you. He’ll realize you’re not the kind of person who belongs at his side.

The voices in your head grew louder, and you didn’t even hear his approach until his voice broke through the storm, smooth and teasing, as if he didn’t have a care in the world.

“Kitten,” Sylus drawled, his tone dripping with amusement, “don’t tell me you’ve gotten lost in there. Or are you planning to make me wait all day?”

Your breath caught. “I’m fine. I just… need another minute,” you called out, trying to keep your voice steady, but it cracked ever so slightly. You winced, praying he hadn’t noticed.

But he had. Of course, he had.

“Hmm,” came his thoughtful hum, followed by the sound of his boots against the boutique’s plush carpet. Closer. Too close. “You don’t sound fine, sweetie. Should I come in and—”

“No!” The word came out sharper than you intended, panic rising in your chest. “Just—stay out there. I’ll be out in a second.”

There was a pause. Long enough for you to realize he wasn’t moving away. His teasing edge was gone when he spoke again, quieter this time. “Sweetie. What’s wrong?”

“I said I’m fine!” you snapped, your voice a pitch higher than you intended. You winced at your own tone. The last thing you wanted was for him to push further.

But Sylus was nothing if not persistent. “Sweetie, you’re never fine when you say you are,” he said, the teasing edge returning, but softer now, as though he was testing the waters. “I’m coming in.”

“No, don’t—” Your protest was cut short as the velvet curtain slid to the side.

The curtain shifted slightly, and you turned away from it, clutching the fabric of the dress like a shield.  Sylus stepped into the small dressing room, his broad frame somehow making the space feel even smaller. His usual air of control and confidence filled the room, his sharp crimson eyes immediately locking onto yours. But his smirk faltered as he took you in—your tear-streaked face, your trembling hands, and the ill-fitting dress that clung awkwardly to your frame.

“Sweetie…” His voice was low, laced with genuine concern as he stepped closer. “What’s going on?”

You turned away, hugging yourself tightly. “Nothing. Just go, Sylus. Please.”

He didn’t move. Instead, he reached out, his hand resting gently on your shoulder. “Look at me,” he said, his tone soft but commanding.

“I don’t want you to see me like this,” you whispered, your voice barely audible.

“And why not?” he asked, his brows furrowing. “You’re my kitten, aren’t you?"

You turned away, hugging yourself tightly. “Nothing. Just go, Sylus. Please..I don’t want you to see me like this,” you whispered, your voice barely audible.

“Like what?” he asked, stepping closer, his hands reaching out but not quite touching you yet. “What are you talking about?”

You shook your head, squeezing your eyes shut. “Like you’re trying to fix something that’s broken. I’m not—I’m not—” The words caught in your throat, but they spilled out anyway, raw and jagged. “I’m not good enough for this. For you. For any of it.”

His frustration was evident in the way his jaw tightened, but when he spoke, his tone was calm. “Where is this coming from?”

You gestured helplessly at your reflection. “Look at me! This dress—it doesn’t fit. It doesn’t look right. I don’t look right, Sylus. I thought I could—” Your voice broke. “I thought I could make myself… better. For you. But I just… don’t fit.”

The air grew heavy with your words, and for a moment, Sylus didn’t respond. Then, slowly, he stepped forward, his hands firm but gentle as they gripped your wrists, lowering them from where they clutched the dress. His touch was grounding, solid.

“Stop,” he said, his voice soft but commanding. “Stop tearing yourself apart like this.”

You blinked up at him, tears slipping free despite your efforts. “But it’s true. I don’t fit in your world. I don’t even fit in this stupid dress.”

His hand slid down your arm, his fingers curling around yours to still their trembling. “Stop,” he repeated, his voice firm but not unkind.

“No, I need to say it,” you continued, the dam breaking as tears spilled down your cheeks. “You’re this—this untouchable, powerful, perfect man, and I’m just—” You gestured helplessly at yourself, the words catching in your throat. “I’m not good enough for you, Sylus. I’ll never be good enough.”

He was silent for a moment, his jaw tightening as he studied you. When he finally spoke, his voice was low and steady, his usual playful demeanor replaced by something far more serious. “That’s enough of that.”

You blinked at him, startled by the sudden shift in his tone.

“You think I care about any of that?” he said, his eyes boring into yours “Sweetie,” he murmured, his tone laced with exasperation and something deeper—something tender. “You don’t need to fit into anything to be enough for me.”

His fingers brushed your cheek, wiping away a tear. “You think I give a damn about some dress? About whatever bullshit standard you think you’re failing to meet?” His crimson eyes burned with intensity as he spoke, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous whisper. “You don’t need to impress me. You already have me wrapped around your finger.”

Your breath hitched, his words sinking in even as you tried to resist them. “But I—”

“No,” he interrupted, shaking his head. “No more of that. Do you know what I see when I look at you?” His hands slid to your shoulders, his grip firm but warm. “I see the person who challenges me, who stands toe-to-toe with me even when she’s scared. The person who’s made my cold, miserable world worth living in.” His lips quirked into a faint smile. “And, if you must know, I happen to think you’re absolutely stunning. Always.”

“But I—” you began, but he cut you off with a shake of his head.

“No buts,” he said firmly. “You don’t need to dress up to impress me. I’m already smitten, in every way possible.”

His words hung in the air, wrapping around you like a warm embrace. Slowly, the tightness in your chest began to ease, the storm in your mind quieting as his presence anchored you. He reached for the zipper, his movements careful and deliberate as he began to undo the dress.

“Let’s get you out of this,” he murmured, his voice low and soothing. “We’ll find something that makes you feel like the goddess you are. And if we don’t, then to hell with the clothes.” Sylus’s hands lingered at the zipper, his eyes meeting yours with a teasing glint as the faintest smirk tugged at his lips. “Though, between you and me, kitten…” he murmured, his voice dipping lower, “I think you’d look better without anything on at all.” His fingers brushed deliberately against your skin as he slid the zipper down further, his touch light but intentional, leaving a trail of warmth in its wake.

Your cheeks burned, the heat rushing to your face at his boldness. “Sylus…” you began, but the words caught in your throat, swallowed by the intensity of his gaze.

He leaned in closer, his breath ghosting over your ear as he spoke again, his tone a mixture of playful and reverent. “But let me make one thing very clear, sweetie. Clothes or no clothes, none of that matters to me. You’re already perfect to me—just as you are. Nothing you wear or don’t wear is going to change that.”

His hands rested firmly on your hips now, steadying you as the trembling in your legs began to subside. “And by the time I’m done worshiping you, adoring you, loving you over and over again,” he continued, his voice husky, filled with an almost dangerous promise, “you’ll see yourself the way I see you. The way I’ve always seen you. Stunning, irresistible, absolutely mine.”

You shivered, not from the chill of the room, but from the weight of his words and the warmth in his touch. He tilted your chin up with one finger, forcing your eyes to meet his. “You’ll see it, sweetie. I’ll make sure of it. Because in my eyes, you’re more than enough—you’re everything.”

The air between you was thick with unspoken emotion, the tension melting into something softer, something unyieldingly honest. His lips brushed your forehead, lingering there for a moment before he pulled back, his hands never leaving your sides. “I’ll remind you every single day, sweetie. Over and over again, until there’s no room in your mind for anything but how much I adore you. Do you understand?”

You nodded, tears prickling at your eyes again—but this time, they weren’t born of pain or self-doubt. They were tears of relief, of something lighter and more hopeful.

“I’ll believe it,” you whispered, your voice trembling but earnest. “I’ll try.”

Sylus’s smirk softened into a smile, his thumb brushing away the tear that escaped down your cheek. “That’s all I ask. But just so you know…” His voice turned playful again, his lips quirking up at the corners. “I’m not above a little convincing, sweetie. And believe me, I’m very persuasive.”

“So,” he said, his smirk returning, though softer now, “what do you say we ditch this boutique? I’m thinking we’ve got better things to do than fuss over dresses that don’t deserve you anyway.” His thumb stroked gently over your hip, his touch grounding and sure.

The storm within you calmed as he pulled you into his arms, holding you close as if shielding you from the weight of your insecurities. For the first time in what felt like forever, you believed that maybe—just maybe, you could accept yourself just the way you are, just the way he did.

You, who accepted him as he was, with all his flaws and imperfections, making his life better every day you were together. You, who were so brave, gentle, and kind that you made him want to become a better man too—just so that one day, he could say he truly deserved you. You, who he had completely fallen for, unable to imagine a world in which he wouldn’t make the same choice of courting you all over again.

That’s why he wanted nothing more than to treasure and respect you in every aspect of life—including intimacy and his own desires. And to be perfectly candid, he had plenty of those from the very moment he laid eyes on you. But he wanted to act like a gentleman, never rushing you into anything. He was patient, waiting for you to make the first move. He wanted to be sure you trusted him, that you weren’t afraid of him—or of the things he wanted to do to you if he ever got the chance.

And even after several months of officially dating you, he still stuck to his resolve, despite the unhealthy hunger growing inside him. He was adamant that you make the first move, even though the waiting was slowly killing him from the inside—his desires burning through his skin, desperate to see the light of your glossy eyes, to feel you squirming beneath him, and to hear your soft moans and whimpers, letting him know that you wanted him too.

He wanted you passionately. He didn’t desire anyone or anything else in his life. He had never thought of anyone else in such terms, which made the wait much more bearable, fun even. The occasional tension in the air only made things between you even more intriguing. Sylus wondered when the moment would come for you to finally let him explore you, taste you, just as he had wanted since the first time he held you in his arms.

He was a patient man. An inquisitive one, but patient nonetheless.

But it was just getting too much for him to handle lately.

He wondered if you were doing this on purpose. Were you trying to make him go feral with want, push him into some action? Maybe you were just too shy to ask for something more, and decided to coax him to take you right then and there? Was it an act? A part of your meticulous, sneaky plan?

He felt his sanity slowly dissipating.

“Sylus? Please, hurry up and help me, we have to go!” You turned your head to look at him, your lips puckered in an adorable pout, and your feet anxiously shifting from one to the other, the sound of your beautiful black heels clicking against the floor of your apartment. The red soles didn’t go unnoticed by him.

And what didn’t go unnoticed as well was how breathtakingly gorgeous you looked, dressed in your tight black gown that accentuated the figure he was obsessed with.

However, he was a strong man. He could look at you in a dress and not get an instant boner; he wasn’t some mere beast. But when you asked for his help, he realized that life hadn’t prepared him for everything you had up your sleeve.

Because right now, you stood before him, your back turned toward him, holding your hair in your hands and exposing a zipper that you wanted him to take care of. A zipper that ran from your neck down, down, down to your red lace panties, which peeked out from beneath the unzipped black material.

He turned his head upward at the sight, his hand reaching for the bridge of his nose, a silent prayer escaping his lips. If God existed, He was not merciful this time.

He could also clearly see that you weren’t wearing a bra, the soft skin of your back exposed, slightly hidden under the material of the dress. Hadn’t he suffered enough?

He wanted to bark. Badly.

Oh fuck, was he really going to bark?

He hoped not.

“Sy?” The nickname almost made his legs buckle. He needed a moment to calm himself after just one look at you, and it seemed to take him much longer than what would be considered natural. The impatience in your voice betrayed your desire not to be late for the opera performance, which he had promised to take you to today. He gulped audibly and realized that you had no idea what you were doing to him—and that scared him.

If you were this dangerous unintentionally, how will he survive when you’ll finally, consciously decide to take things further?

“Yes. Yes, of course, sweetie.” He managed to choke out and stepped closer to you, your delectable scent overwhelming his senses. He tried to hide the slight tremble in his hands as he reached for the zipper at the bottom of your dress. When he zipped you up, he took his sweet time caressing your body with his knuckles, basking in the soft feeling of your skin and the dangerous touch of the lace of your panties. He hoped you couldn’t hear his heartbeat—or see the pink in his cheeks. He couldn’t remember the last time he had blushed, but now he was sure of it, judging by the warmth on his face.

He was hopeless. Utterly ruined.

“There you go.” He said quietly, caressing your beautiful hair with his fingers, smoothing the creases which appeared after your hold. He brushed it from your neck and planted a slow kiss there, his movements far too composed for someone who was boiling with desire inside.

“Thank you. I couldn’t reach it at all and we’re already short on time.” You put your hand on his head, patting it gently and sighing when he touched your waist. He couldn’t help but squeeze you there, feeling the warmth of your skin through the soft material of your dress. You understood this gesture as teasing and giggled adorably.

“You look magnificent, my dove.” The compliment slipped through his lips, earning him your sweet smile and a kiss on a cheek. He watched as you passed him to grab your purse, going straight to the front door, leaving him behind. Trusting he’ll follow your step, as he always did.

Sylus closed his eyes and touched the very spot on his cheek where your lips had grazed, releasing a sigh that could be interpreted as both contentment and a silent prayer for endurance.

“You coming, Sy?” He could hear you calling for him, and he opened his eyes. His left one shone brightly at him from his reflection on the window. His Evol proved useless when his body already made it abundantly clear what—or whom—he desired the most.

“I fucking wish.” He whispered under his breath, turned around, and walked up to you, picking you up and throwing you over his shoulder as he reveled in the weight of your body pressing against him. His ears were graced by your little squeal, that quickly transformed into uncontrollable laughter, a sound he wanted to record and play every time you were away.

You slapped his back playfully and joked about wanting to use your legs once in a while, and he laughed, saying that he just wanted to make sure that he had all he needed with him. Then, he grabbed his coat with his Evol, and used it to slam the door after you both went out. He hoped that the lust he felt, which started to get out of his control, managed to stay behind them.

He waited for so long; how hard could it be to wait for another couple of months?

˙⟡⋆˚✿˖°⟡

Hard.

Tremendously hard, both theoretically and physically, given the reaction of his body upon the contact.

He shifted slightly so that you wouldn’t feel his growing bulge against your core, his hands hovered over your thighs, his cheeks flaming hot. He was about to fucking pass out.

But you were none the wiser, sitting on his body, strangling him with your soft, mouth-watering thighs, practically rubbing yourself against him, and performing your little dance of victory after pushing him to the ground during your sparring.

Normally, he would have laughed with you and treasured your moment of happiness, his senses overwhelmed by pride as he watched you get better and better at self-defense with every practice.

But that was just cruel.

Not only did you show up in that little piece of fabric covering your breasts, something you dared to call a sports bra, its thin straps reminiscent of a fish net, offering NO support whatsoever for your charms, but you also dared to wear that pair of leggings you claimed you had bought with your friend during your last trip to the mall.

And they were leaving nothing for his imagination, your every curve hugged tightly, every dip deliciously emphasized. And fuck, you looked gorgeous in wine red. You knew you did.

“I got it in your color! Do you like it?” You asked upon entering his gym, twirling for him like the most adorable fucking thing he had ever had the pleasure of seeing, your arms up and your hair still untied. He did saw red, and it wasn’t just the color of your clothing.

His color. His girl in his color, he was going absolutely feral.

“I do.” He choked out, and tried to avert his eyes from your posture but lost that battle quickly. “You look stunning. My little gem.” He answered and you dared to look at him sheepishly, your face showing the signs of getting flustered.

“I’m not just a gem anymore. I’m a professional fighter.” You playfully punched his shoulder, jumping around and mimicking boxing moves, making him laugh out loud as he grabbed your fists in his hands. He pulled you closer to him and kissed your forehead, his arms wrapping around your frame.

“Is that an apology in advance?” You asked him when his lips left your skin. He smirked, his brow raising.

“Might be. Today we’ll be practicing attacks and knocking down your opponent.”

“Me? Knocking you down?” You looked at him with disbelief, your hands dropping to your sides, already defeated. “I’m doomed. Sylus, can’t I knock down Luke or Kieran instead?” Your cute pout and hands clasped in a begging gesture made him laugh again, as he fixed the bandages on your hands.

“And you think they would be easier to conquer?”

“Yes. Obviously, yes.”

“But they wouldn’t make sure you’re not going to hurt yourself, kitten, and I already know your patterns…” He leaned over you, his hot breath caressing your ear, making you shiver. His hands avoided touching your body. “And weak spots…” A whisper and a gentle bite on your earlobe were enough to send your adrenaline soaring.

“You—!” You jumped from him, like a little kitten, your face flustered and gaze filled with playful threat. “You’re going down mister. You’re SO going dooown.”

And down he went.

Right under your soft body, squashed between your warm tights, looking up at your beautiful lips twisted in an adorable, cunning smirk.

Oh, the way he loved you. The way he wanted to have you. The intensity of that feeling started to suffocate him.

“Okay, you got me, sweetie.” He choked out and tried his best to sound as nonchalant as possible. But nothing about this situation was nonchalant—your soft tights squeezing his waist and your butt pressing on his weak spot almost made him see stars. He grabbed your waist to try to stop your body from moving and gritted his teeth, fighting with himself to not buckle his hips up. “Now, up. I admit defeat.”

Defeat that had to do with the improvement of your skills and the force of your little fists, yes, but also with the way Sylus was distracted by your body, his eyes wandering everywhere during the battle, but not the places he should actually pay attention to.

Apparently, he was a weak, weak man, when the situation concerned you. Weak and impossibly horny.

“Hmm, I’m not sure if I want to.” You answered, a mischievous glint adored your gaze. He drank that expression in.

Beautiful. You were absolutely beautiful, sitting on him, your body sparkling with sweat, face red from the exhaustion. How could he keep his mind from going places? “I think I like you like this.” His eyebrows went up, and cheeks felt a little bit too warm for his liking.

What were you trying to say?

“Yes? Like what, kitten?” His heart felt like it was about to beat out of his chest. He knew that you could feel it, one of your hands rested on top of it, stroking his chest, feeling the warmth radiating from his skin through his shirt. He shivered, his body covered in goosebumps, finding the gentle touch too intense, somehow.

“Towering over you.” His breath hitched; his heart almost stopped its beating. “It’s much easier to look at your face when I’m like this. It’s nice.” His heart squeezed instead, your confession turning out to be more touching than teasing, and he cursed himself internally for belittling your interactions and intimacy lately. His mind immediately assumed sexual undertones, where everything you were doing with him, at your own, unique pace should be more than enough for him.

“You like looking at me that much, huh?” He answered, his hand going up to caress your cheek with the back of his fingers. He smiled with content, and he put his hand at the nape of your neck, hoping you’ll understand the implications.

You did. Not a second later you lowered your body so that you were lying on top of him, one of his hands holding you to himself by your waist, pressing you even closer together. He acknowledged how much he loved your full weight on his body, your hearts pressed so close to each other they started beating as one.

You put your hands on his cheeks, smiled down at him, and pressed a small kiss to one of his eyelids, and then to the tip of his nose. He closed his eyes for a moment, savoring the feeling.

“Of course. You’re my beautiful boy, Sylus.” You whispered to him, a smile adoring your face and he couldn’t help himself. He pulled you close by your neck and pressed a chaste kiss to your lips, almost whimpering into your mouth from the intensity of his feelings.

You reciprocated the kiss, not hesitating even for a second, and soon, both of your lips were swollen and glistening, your minds filled with sparkles and cotton.

You were the one to break the kiss, your mind going dizzy, body trembling from the arousal. He could feel it without using his Evol—the desire that raised within you, the fire that now flowed through your veins. His eyes sparkled with anticipation.

One moment and you’ll go pliant against him, melting into his embrace.

One second, and he’ll finally taste heaven, be as close to you as anyone ever has been.

“Y/N, will it be alright if I—” He started speaking, your eyes looking at him from above as you held onto his cheek and neck, caressing his skin with your thumbs, making him feel oh, so cherished. Yet, he didn’t manage to finish the request because a sudden crash from the door opening pierced through the silent room, popping your comfortable bubble in an instant.

You jumped out of his embrace, leaving him cold and yearning, his hands sliding over his face in frustration.

“Boss—”

“Luke, Kieran it better be fucking important.” Sylus hissed through his teeth, and the fact that he didn’t even try to hide his frustration made you huff out a laugh and you quickly covered your mouth with your hand. You didn’t want to laugh at him so openly, hiding how adorable his anger towards boys seemed to you at that moment.

His eyes caught yours, lured by the bubbly sound, and one of the corners of his mouth went up slightly. He raised his hand to your covered mouth and brought your hand down with his fingers, revealing your smile.

“It is, Boss! The Girm Company chairman called and demanded a meeting in thirty minutes.” Luke said quickly, Kieran peeking out from behind his shoulder. “And he didn’t want to take “no” for an answer.” Kieran added, his body now revealed.

You were not sure if Sylus was even listening, his eyes glued to your face, his fingers tracing the line of your smile absentmindedly. He still didn’t raise from the floor of the ring, his posture relaxed, one arm now resting behind his head.

“That bastard.” He answered under his breath, and closed his eyes in annoyance for a second and when he opened them, they were once again glued to you. “If you don’t want me to leave, just say a word.” He said, and put a strand of your hair behind your ear. The back of his hand started a slow caress of your cheek, and you felt embarrassed, knowing that the boys were still looking at you both, waiting for Sylus’s answer.

“It’s okay, Sy. I actually have some errands to run in Linkon so I better get going.” You answered, grabbing his hand and pressing a kiss to his fingers. His breath hitched, eyes following the movement with a longing deep in his chest. “Besides, I’m tired of beating your ass today. Save some dignity for the next time.” You added with a mischievous look, poking his hard chest with your finger teasingly.

The laugh that came out of his chest was sudden—loud, deep, and so sincere that it warmed your chest, your lips spreading in a proud smile. He grabbed your hand off of his chest and brought it to his lips, kissing your fingertips. The mirth in his eyes clearly visible, the affection bare and tangible.

“You are so generous, sweetie. Letting your pray off the hook so easily.” He couldn’t stop smiling even when he was raising to his feet, his hand going to massage his left shoulder. He looked at you and offered you his hand, which you immediately accepted. He helped you stand, his eyes tracing your every move, still unable to look away.

Your body entranced him, your presence lit a fire in his veins. The point where your hands touched warm and almost overwhelming. His desire for more once again proven unquenchable.

“Boys, let him know I’ll be there. It seems that I need to remind him who actually is in the position to make demands.” His voice was now authoritative, followed by the boys’ exclamations of “Will do, boss,” along with two salutes send his way.

And they were gone just as quickly as they had appeared.

“Don’t be too harsh on the chairman. I don’t want to get in the way of your business.” He saw you turn to him with a worried expression on your face, and he leaned down to place a kiss on your forehead, his lips lingering on the spot for much longer than necessary.

“Hmm, I’m afraid that’s impossible.” He took your hand in his and placed a kiss on your knuckles, looking deep into your eyes. The sadness of you parting ways already blooming inside him. “They cut our time together short, so I’m planning on making them pay for that offense generously.” He smirked and watched you shake your head with disbelief, a small smile gracing your lips.

“I already miss you.” He heard you saying and you surprised him by throwing your arms around his neck, then kissing him almost senseless.

He closed his eyes and returned the kiss, which was starting to border on filthy. His hands grabbed your frame, pressing you closer to him, as his body bent toward you.

When you parted, your breaths were hot and heavy, a string of saliva still keeping your mouths connected. He stared at the filthy sight, his heart pounding in his chest, his boxers starting to become a rather tight fit. You placed a hand on his chest and pushed him away gently, your fingers trailing downward until they grazed his abdomen. He gulped audibly and remained still, watching you walk further and further away. He didn’t trust himself to move even an inch, afraid he wouldn’t be able to restrain himself anymore.

“Bye, Sylus. I’ll let you know when I get home safely.” You told him, walking away backwards now, your eyes not leaving his. “And we’ll continue what we started next time, okay, Boss?” The last part a whisper from your sweet lips, almost making him drop to his knees right then and there. You waved at him, shyness visible on your cheeks, and then you left him in the middle of the ring, stunned and filled with excruciating desire to finally have you.

Next time.

He groaned, his hands covering his blushing face, his mind already imagining the things he’ll do to you, only if you let him. God, he hoped that you’ll let him.

He did arrive late to the meeting that day, having to compose himself for much longer than you would have expected. He also made sure the chairman regretted keeping him away from you—your softness, your scent, an addictive drug he never wanted to be deprived of. The audacity to take that from him deserved nothing less than the highest of punishments.

He couldn’t help it; he already missed you.

˙⟡⋆˚✿˖°⟡

Sylus could write poems about his beloved, listing all her remarkable qualities and quirks; however, not once would he describe her as elegant and composed.

You usually were a tornado of various emotions, a temple of the things you cherished, your expressions lively and loud, honest and unrestrained.

You were also a bit clumsy—an occasional stumble, a bump to your limb now and then, or a broken glass wasn’t anything that Sylus hadn’t see you do before. He often worried about you and your safety, with new bruises appearing on your body from bumping into things or a piece of glass piercing through your delicate skin. Sometimes, he wished he could protect you from yourself too, but all he could do was press a kiss to every small injury you sustained from your hectic movements.

All bumps aside, he utterly adored that quality of yours. Every time he caught you acting awkwardly his chest seemed to shrink on itself, his heart squeezing, cute aggression overcoming his senses. You were just so adorable in those moments, the sight always reminding him of a little fawn, beautiful but uneasy on its feet. His craving to grab you and hold you in his arms, protecting you from the whole world, was strong; the urge to press a kiss to your forehead, then to kiss you senseless, even stronger. You were his little chaos: wonderful in your unexpectedness, extraordinary in every sense of the word.

Needless to say, he was used to your adorable clumsiness. He loved it.

That was probably why his brain stopped working when you proved to be everything but clumsy while playing the games at the local funfair. Your moves sure and precise, your gaze locked onto the targets, your body positioned exactly how it should be in order to gain the reward you wanted—whether it was a new plushie, a funky gadget or even some snacks.

And he had to say that this new, confident, borderline cocky behavior you were displaying was making him feel some things.

“Wait, let me try this time.” You said the first time he couldn’t score the prize, the claw mocking him relentlessly, wounding his pride.

You got that plushie in one, excellent attempt.

“Let me get that for you, Sy.” You proposed later, seeing him eyeing a figurine of a crow that reminded him of Mephisto. You were able to get not only that, but also a coupon for a food stall that served the best waffles you’ve ever eaten. As for Sylus, the sweetness of the treat paled in comparison to your blinding smile, with whipped cream still staining the corner of your mouth. He swiped it away with his thumb, then licked the digit, sending you a wink in the process.

He took pride in your blush, especially when making each other red that day started to feel like a competition between you two, whether you were aware of it or not.

“You want this one? Say no more, handsome.” Your words almost making him choke, your hands already grabbing the controls, your body bending over the machine, offering him a wonderful view of your ass. The tips of his ears immediately started to feel as if caught on fire. Even though he knew that you were teasing him, the pet name sounding foreign from your lips, he liked the feeling of you taking the initiative.

He also couldn’t stop his eyes from wandering, your body presented to him in a way that felt illegal to watch. He swiped his gaze up from the nape of your neck to your shoulders, taking note of your delicious-looking waist, perky butt, and thighs, which seemed lonely without his hands squeezing and kneading the soft flesh.

The cheerful sound of the machine made him snap back into reality, just as you were looking over your shoulder, sending him the sexiest, oh so sexy, proud smirk he ever saw in his life. He smirked right back, even though his legs felt disturbingly like jelly.

“I’m starting to think you enjoy this.” He remarked, grabbing the prize from your hands once again, the rest of your treasures already sitting comfortably in the back of his car. You send him a mischievous smile and fixed your hair, your fingers threading through the strands, the smell of your perfume reaching him once again during that night.

He wanted to devour you.

“And what’s wrong with that?” One of your hands grabbed his bicep, holding on to him as you started your lazy stroll in search of yet another entertainment. “You always get me things. And since I know now that you suck at these games, I have a perfect opportunity to return the favor.” He laughed at that, his hand moving to flick your forehead.

“I don’t suck at these games, all of them are tempered with, sweetie. I actually find it astonishing that you are so good at them.” His reply kind of soothing his wounded pride, his mind once again remembering your movements from before. The way you moved with confidence and grace, the little smirks and winks you send his way. His blood started to boil several stalls ago, and it hasn’t calmed since. “Makes one wonder about the extent of your abilities.”

The new, cocky, and self-confident side of you aroused him almost to the point of him grabbing you by the waist and taking you to his car, taking advantage of his tined widows.

“It all comes down to having a good strategy, as someone once taught me.” You said, repeating the words Sylus is always saying to you during your training, a mirth lacing your tone. How he adored you.

“Wise counseling you have here, kitten. You must have a fantastic teacher, if his lessons are proving to be useful anywhere you go.” The smile not leaving your face making him never want to look away.

“Oh, yes, he is. And an eye-candy too.” You touched his nose with the tip of your finger teasingly while he laughed. He stopped walking and turned to you fully, his arms closing around your waist, bringing you to him, close enough for your bodies to touch. The height difference always made him dizzy, with your head fully tilted upward in order to catch his gaze.

“Mm. Maybe that’s a quality he learned from you.” His tone quiet, one of his hands going to touch your cheek, his thumb pressing on your bottom lip. You appeared stunned. “I cannot think of someone sweeter than you. If he’s a candy, you’re one delectable dessert.” He whispered, his eyes going from your eyes to your lips, their reddish tone reminding him of a little cherry. He was fighting with himself not to put his hands on your ass, and squeeze the flesh that you kept pushing his way from the very beginning of your date, or not to place a kiss on your smart little mouth, which kept sending him these playful smirks all day long. He knew that if he started here, he would not be able to stop. No one would be capable of separating him from you, public place be damned.

His desire boiling inside him, threatening to melt his vessels and pour from his body, enveloping you in a tight, pleasurable embrace. He felt feverish, your body pressed to his giving him all the warmth he ever needed, molding his thoughts to fit only your frame.

You were perfect in his eyes. Your body, the perfect shape for him to hold, your face the only one he wanted to remember. And the way he felt when he was with you—so immensely happy, so carefree, so right—was a feeling he had never even dreamed about having. Your banter, little jokes and witty comments made him so at ease he never wanted to stop talking to you, afraid of depriving himself of even a second of the comfort you brought him: the knowledge that he could speak his mind freely, for you understood him beyond the limitations of language. By your side, he could be himself, the thoughts in his head quiet, giving way to expressing himself in any way he wanted. His little taste of heaven: the time you spent together.

He loved you. So intensely it used to scare him, but now he was offering himself willingly, no longer afraid of rejection. Even though you both still didn’t acknowledge it out loud, the feeling lingered in the air between you — a delectable sweetness, a comforting fragrance.

He wanted you. Body and soul. Soul and body. He liked to think he already had your soul in grasp, your actions and openness served as a perfect proof of that, yet your body was still his to claim. And the fact that there was still a part of you he didn’t manage to possess, to thoroughly acknowledge, frustrated him inconceivably.

Especially because you had that strong of an effect on him. Everything you did capable of driving him perfectly insane. Oh, how you had him wrapped around your little finger, without being aware how completely obsessed he was with you.

“Is that so?” His gaze went from your hypnotizing eyes back to your lips, drinking in every single whisper. You stood on your tiptoes, the sight making his hands squeeze your waist tighter, his breath quickening, mind trying to process closer distance. “If he keeps sweet-talking me like this, then I guess he will finally get to taste it.” You grabbed his chin and tilted it down, pressing a soft, drawn-out kiss to his lips. His eyes closed immediately, desperate to heighten his senses. He wanted this kiss to last, both in the moment and later in his memory.

And just as he was about to wrap his arms around your back, pulling you closer, hiding your body from everyone else just to steal a few more kisses, you stepped back, the quiet sound of a smooch echoing between you. He bit his lip, almost drawing blood, restraining himself from chasing after your lips.

“C’mon now. I still have a few tricks up my sleeve that I need to show you.” You gripped his hand tighter and started to walk toward one of the booths. You sent him a smile over your shoulder, making his efforts to calm his racing heart futile. “And then maybe we can grab some cotton candy? All this talk about sweets made me crave some.”

“Anything for you, sweetie.” He answered absentmindedly, your taste still lingering on his lips. How were you always able to move on from the kisses so quickly? It would be the only thing he could think about in the next minutes.

“And what do you want?”

“Hmm?” The question shocked him, his eyebrows going up, his eyes intently observing your face.

“Do you have something you’d like to do while we’re here? I keep dragging you stall to stall ever since we came here.” You said while turning to fully face him, grabbing both of his hands. “I want you to have fun too.”

“I always have fun when I’m with you.” His response honest, his thumb caressing your knuckles. “You make life so interesting. And today you already managed to surprise me, so I would say that was more than enough entertainment for me in a day.” You rolled your eyes at him, a small smile on your lips, and looked at him with patience.

“But the day’s not over yet. Isn’t there anything you’d like to do? Look around.”

He lifted his head from your frame and began taking in the booths and various food stalls that had previously escaped his attention. He hummed, and he could feel you shifting on your feet, unable to contain your excitement.

That’s when he caught something interesting out of the corner of his eye—a couple emerging from a small booth, huge smiles plastered on their faces as they held small pieces of paper. A spark of excitement ignited inside him upon realizing what it was.

“There. I want to have a memento.” He said, his finger pointing to that innocent-looking booth. Almost impossible to spot in the abundance of lights and sounds coming from other attractions.

“Okay! I think I already won you a mountain of mementos but if—Ah!” Your eyes lit up when you realized what he was pointing to, your lips spreading in a cheerful smile. “A photo booth! Sylus, that’s wonderful!”

It wasn’t long before you were both inside the booth, the space cramped, almost too small for him to fit. He sat on the small stool, taking up nearly all the space, leaving you no choice but to sit on one of his legs. Your arms wrapped around his neck for stability, yet there wasn’t a hint of discomfort on your face.

He loved how natural it was for you to be this close to him, the proximity no longer making you nervous. He still remembered how you were at the beginning of your acquaintance, when even an eye contact was enough to make you shy away. Now, touching him was as easy as breathing, your body relaxed and pliant under his wandering hands.

While you were clicking playfully on the screen, setting up the machine, he took his time observing you—mainly how your body looked next to his, which made him short-circuit, reminding him why he was still waiting for you to make the first move in initiating sexual intimacy. The reason he didn’t want to rush things, nervousness buried deep inside his chest.

You were sitting on his leg, your whole body weighting next to nothing, his one limb nearly twice as big as both of yours. Your soft flesh pressed to him didn’t even take up half of the place available on his leg, and when he put one of his hands on your back, the huge patch of your skin he was able to cover made him gulp audibly.

You were so tiny, next to him.

He was a huge man, and he knew that. Not just his height, but his overall build made even other men look small in comparison. While he usually considered it one of his greatest assets, a fantastic tool for intimidation, in this particular case, it planted a seed of worry in him.

It took some time for you not to shy away from his touch, not to flinch every time he leaned to you, his body covering whole line of your vision. And it took him even more time to learn how he should touch you and hold you, not to put too much force behind his caresses, not to make you bruise. And although the gentleness run in his bloodstream by now, he was still worried about the actual sex.

What if he scares you? His body completely covered your delicious curves without issue.

What if he overwhelms you? His stamina and eagerness matched his overall size.

What if he hurts you? The thought of your body unable to accommodate to his size made his blood run cold.

He looked at your body again, and he had to hold in a sigh. He loved your curves, the unbelievable softness of your skin, how warm you were. He felt his hunger increasing every day, every minute, every second he spent in your presence.

Yet he had to wait patiently, not wanting to scare you. He also knew that you were starting to get bolder with him day by day. He liked to think that it was just a matter of time until you will initiate something more, cover him with your soft embrace, let him melt in your warmth.

Because at the end of the day, his observations of your size difference not only filled his mind with fear, but also made his body tingle in all the right places. The arousal he felt knowing that he could manhandle you without any issue, cover your whole body entirely with his, shield you from the world and its coldness—all consuming. The only thing he could think about.

You were tiny in his embrace.

But he could make it work. He will make it work so good.

How could he hurt you when he was so certain that you were made to be his? Two halves of a perfect soul.

His hand slid down to hug your waist and he pressed a lingering kiss to your shoulder. It made you giggle, you thought that it was his way of showing impatience. And it was, in a way. Just not the kind of impatience you assumed it was.

“All set! I had some fun with the stickers, do you want to choose your own?” He looked at the screen and opened his mouth to deny, but one sticker did actually catch his attention. He clicked on the small dove and placed it in the bottom of the template, next to the various hearts you already decorated it with.

“That’s you. The resemblance is almost striking.” He said making you laugh and you picked a sticker of some kind of a black bird.

“And that’s you. They unfortunately don’t have a crow one so this little fella has to work.” You placed the sticker close to the dove one, satisfied with your work.

“I get the vision. When I’m squinting my eyes, I guess.”

You had four pictures taken, all accompanied by laughter and endless teasing. One where you kissed his cheek, one hand holding his jaw, his eyes closed and features relaxed. One where he pretended to bite your neck, your face caught in laughter. One where he rolled his eyes, reacting to your lame joke of getting rabies from his bite, as you placed your pointed fingers above his head, adoring him with imaginary horns, your mouth open in fake shock. And the last one, where you grabbed his face and kissed him, his gentle smile pressed against your mouth, a picture of joy that couldn’t be restrained.

“I might have gone kind of overboard with the stickers.” You said when you got your two copies of the pictures, four perfect rectangles inside a scarlet border, adorned with hearts, flowers and stars. Two adorable birds were at the very bottom of it, just below the date. Sylus looked at the pictures, and his heart seemed to grow bigger, the wave of emotions making him unable to utter even a simple word. “But I think they’re cute regardless! It’s so nice to finally have a picture of us printed out. I’m definitely going to frame mine.” You said and took out your phone to take a picture of it.

His thumb gently caressed the piece of paper, words still stuck in his throat.

It was the very first picture of you two together, and when he looked at it, he couldn’t help but get emotional, knowing that he never expected to have someone like you in his life. Someone to cherish, to protect, to hold. Someone who reciprocated his feelings, someone who will never leave him, even if doomsday falls upon Linkon, even if the world crumbles.

“Are you okay, Sy? You’ve gone nonverbal again.” He felt your hand on his wrist, offering him a gentle squeeze. He finally looked at you, going out of the trace he was in, and saw your beautiful face laced with concern. He felt your hand going up and down his arm, caressing him in order to bring comfort.

“Did I?” He managed to choke out and hugged you to his chest, craving the closeness, not wanting you to see his slightly glistening eyes. He feared that the darkness of the night would not be enough to cover them, the lights from the fun fair only exaggerating his sudden surge of emotions. “They’re perfect. Thank you.” You hugged his torso tightly, your arms going up and down his back. You knew him well enough to realize he got emotional, but you were smart enough to let him savor his feelings in peace. If he was not comfortable showing you his tears, you had to understand it—the knowledge of how much it meant to him already warming your heart.

“Anything for you, Sylus.” You repeated the same thing he said to you earlier, and he picked you up, still hugging you to himself, his face finding coverage in the crook of your neck.

“Sly little thing.” He whispered and pressed a kiss there, drinking in the sound of your laugh and melting under the touch of your fingers, which stroked his hair affectionately.

Oh, how he couldn’t wait to finally be yours completely.

˙⟡⋆˚✿˖°⟡

Mesmerizing.

You, dancing in his room at two p.m to the new vinyl he bought, your hair down, arms up. Your eyes were closed and there was a small, relaxed smile playing on your lips, that seemed to grow bigger with each sway of your hips. You decided to wear the nightgown he got you some time ago, white lace caressing your body with a gentle flow of the shiny fabric.

He couldn’t breathe. All air sucked out of his lungs the moment he turned around and saw you swaying to the music he picked out. A surge of want so intense came over him that he was afraid to move even an inch—his body on fire, his mind filled with the visions of you, thoughts of you, and what you could be reduced to, enriched with under the touch of his hands.

If only he wasn’t a coward.

“Will you join me?” you said over your shoulder, opening your eyes slightly, and you must’ve seen something unusual in his eyes, because your movements slowed down and a furrow appeared between your brows. He wanted to kiss it off instantly. “Sy?”

You were so precious and delicate, a perfect opposite of his harsh exterior and even more barbaric interior. He waited so long, restrained himself for so much time, waiting for you to move first—now, standing before you, the thought that you wanted him this way too pierced a hole in his heart and filled it with fear.

“Forgive me. I cannot.” he answered, his voice coming out with a slight growl, that he couldn’t contain anymore. He inhaled deeply and gritted his teeth, hoping that he was at least successful in not making his eye glow, his Evol suddenly unstable. He didn’t want to know your desires, not when they were visible so clearly on your face now—openness and anticipation, ever since you went back from your date.

He hoped that shower would be able to calm you down, even though the warm and steady stream of the water didn’t manage to help him this time around.

He was losing his composure and he was losing it fast. Weeks of this insatiable hunger, unrelenting need and dripping tension did that to him. He knew he was fighting a losing battle ever since he laid his eyes on you today, looking so cozy in your oversized sweater, filling the air around him with your intoxicating scent.

He was ready to devour you months ago, the buildup straining his muscles now, making him restless. He was a goner—one wrong move and his previous patience and willingness for you to take the lead reducing to vapor.

“Why? We always dance together to your vinyls, especially the new ones.” Your movements faltered to a stop, your magnificent face turned to him, with an expression so honest it made his heart clench painfully.

He thought of all the times you danced under the moonlight, soft notes of his favorite music floating through the air, your bodies moving to the rhythm, sometimes gracefully, some other times not so much. The feelings overwhelmed him even more drastically, his eyes closing for a moment.

It was enough time for you to close the distance, and soon he felt your cold hand pressing against his cheek, swiping the flesh with your thumb. He squeezed his eyelids shut tighter, the touch making his soul burn. You took his head in both of your hands, lowering it to face you.

“Sylus, talk to me.” you said, tone worried. He could feel you standing on your tiptoes, wanting to bring your face closer to his. His body almost shaking with the need to hold you. “You’re acting very unusual today. Is something wrong?” He exhaled the air he didn’t know he was holding and opened his eyes. Your face was so close that he could see the shadow your eyelashes cast on your cheeks. He could feel your breath, warm and inviting.

“I can’t touch you now,” he managed to utter, his hands at his sides, struck in cruel stillness. He locked his eyes with yours, filled with worry and a comforting gentleness. You were always so gentle with him; it made him go insane. “Because if I do, I won’t be able to hold back anymore.”

He saw the realization in the shift of your features as you fully grasped the meaning of his words. To his surprise, you took one of his hands in yours, and placed it on your cleavage, right over your beating heart, the rhythm beneath his palm fast but steady.

“Then don’t. Why would you even want to hold back with me?” You answered, slightly breathless, a pleasurable tingling already setting deeply in your abdomen. You looked at his face, the redness of his cheeks nearly matching the color of his eyes, the look he gave you so desperate it turned your legs to cotton.

The sudden burst of happiness in your chest almost made you tremble, you had waited so long for him to finally claim you as his, and it seemed he had finally reached his limit.

“I don’t—” He stumbled upon his words; a reaction so different from his usual self-confident demeanor it made you crave to uncover more versions of him. All versions of him, every single one he was willing to show you. “I can’t help but fear that I will hurt you. You are so soft, so breakable, it makes me nervous. Aren’t you scared of me? Of—Of what I could do, to you?” The confession slipping out of him, and he grabbed your wrist in one hand, the other coming to rest on your back. He slowly brought you to him, pressing your bodies together. He heard your breath falter, and drank that sound in. Then don’t — you had no idea what a hurricane you managed to stir inside him with just two simple words.

“Sy. My sweet, caring gentleman.” He heard your answer, and felt your fingers caressing his under eyes gently, your eyes never leaving his. One of your fingers touched the wrinkle between his brows, smoothing the furrowed surface. “You could never hurt me, even if you wanted to. You’re so fixated on the knowledge what you can do, that you’re forgetting that you’ve never even touched me hard enough to leave a bruise. No matter how much I wanted you to, sometimes.”

“You—”

“I’m not scared of you, Sylus. I could never, and I will never be scared of you. You’re the one with whom I feel the safest.” His hands started trembling, his patience thinning with every beautiful word from your lips. You were telling him things he didn’t even know how desperately he wanted to hear. “And I want you. I want to finally feel you, all your roughness and sharp edges. I want all of it.” The sound of your breathing mingled with the soft tunes of the vinyl. The air thick with want.

Any second now, he could feel it in the shiver down his spine.

“And I want it now.”

Snap.

His resolve shattered as he pulled you into him, capturing your lips in a kiss so deep and desperate it left your legs trembling. He kissed you with raw intensity, his tongue exploring your mouth, drinking in every sound you made as his hands roamed your body, claiming every inch he could reach.

You felt him everywhere. Your thighs, hips, waist, your neck, hair and breasts—he seemed to touch everything he was depriving himself of before. His hands huge, and although slightly rushed and trembling, still surprisingly gentle.

He lifted you up, your legs straining his waist and he laid you down on his bed, not breaking the kiss for even a second, your breath his breath, your lips water to quench his thirst.

His head was spinning, and when he finally opened his eyes the sight before him alone made him lose his mind.

You were sprawled under him, your hair a wild mess, your lips swollen from the abundance of his kisses. Your eyes glistened, the look in them so full of trust and love, love so visible it nearly broke him in half.

“You’re exquisite. Irresistible. Ethereal.” The praises slipped out of his tongue before he could stop them. The last bit of control fleeting with the touch of your impatient fingers, unbuttoning his shirt, taking it off of him in a matter of seconds. He couldn’t even find it in himself to tease you for your impatience, not when his brain already turned into mush after touching your bare skin. “You look as if you’re coated in frosting. My sweet girl, my most delectable little sin.” His eyes focused on your white dress; his hands not brave enough to let it slip off of you yet. He already feared the man he would become upon seeing you fully bared before him.

“Sylus—”

“It’s unholy. How much I want you.” His lips traced a path from beneath your ear down to your neck, finding their place on your collarbones. “How much I need you. The greed unexplainable, insatiable no matter how close I get to you. It’s not enough. It will never be enough.” His eyes met yours in a silent question and you nodded quickly in permission, gulping audibly, your eyes drooping. He let his hands travel up your legs, grazing your inner thighs, swiping through your hips, his palms tracing the lace of your panties, making the hair on his body raise. He then swiped through your waist and finally, finally his hands rested on your breasts, where you wanted them from the very beginning.

His breath hitched as he looked down your body, noticing how his touch had already lifted the fabric of your dress, baring your legs and stomach. His body shielded you from the chill in the air.

He squeezed your breasts gently, fondling them in his hands, a low groan escaping his lips—the same ones which couldn’t resist kissing your belly, anywhere he could reach, not even thinking about stopping his sensual kneading. It baffled him, how soft you were, how pliant under his touch. His hands, although taking so much of the space on your body didn’t seem to make you nervous at all—every single one of his touches you accepted with soft sights, low whines and a bitten lip. You trusted him, and he was drunk on that trust, wanted more, needed to see how far it could take him.

It quickly appeared that there was no limit to the things he could do to you, your whispers not only appreciative, but also encouraging. The uncontrollable thrusts of his hips against the duvet bordered on painful, the knowledge that he would have you in mere minutes making him unbearably hard. But he accepted the friction, your comfort mattered to him the most, and he wanted to take care of you properly.

“Sylus. Sylus, more, please.” He heard your silent plea, and caught your eyes in his, and that’s when he decided it was a time for you to drop the dress. He helped you out of it then licked the goosebumps forming between your breasts, each tiny dot on your skin making him awfully aware that this was it. Your beautiful form, completely bare, just for him to see, to worship.

“My little gem.” He breathed out, his eyes drinking in your body, committing to his memory every dip and curve. “My treasure.” He nearly growled, his mouth attached to your breast, licking and sucking on your nipple, moaning in the process. He wanted to devour you whole, to not leave a patch of skin untouched by his mouth. He thrived in the way you took hold of his head, your hands messing up his hair, caressing it when his tongue worshipped your breasts and nipples, drowning in their softness. He found his safe place.

“Oh God I—I feel like I’m floating, please don’t stop.” He heard you breathe out, your chest heaving, your legs closing in an attempt to relieve the tension building inside you. “You’re so good. So, so, so good, Sy.” He released one of your nipples with a pop, and stored the visual of your skin glistening with his saliva for later. He basked in your praise and pushed himself down, knowing exactly what he wanted to do next.

“Yes? You want it, kitten? Say you do. Please. I need you to say it.” His voice groggy, laced with yearning so tangible it made your body shiver.

“Yes. Yes, I do. Please, Sy. I waited so long for you.” Your words made his head spin, a smile spreading on his lips not flirtatious at all, just pure joy and contentment. He kissed your stomach and his hands once again swiped through your whole body. He raised on his forearms and caged your head between his arms, and then pressed a long, deep kiss on your mouth which quickly turned into another wave of heavy kisses. He wasn’t hungry anymore.

He was ravenous.

“I need to prepare you first, sweetie.” He said to your mouth, his words immediately swallowed by your perfect lips. You whimpered and his grip on your arm tightened involuntarily, his hand playing with your hair. “I need to take my time with you, otherwise I won’t be able to fit. You’re so tiny it scares me.” You nodded into the kiss and he smiled at you gently, and after pressing a kiss to your forehead, he went down.

And when he finally widened your legs, his mouth was on you instantly, making you moan, your legs clasping on his head reflexively. He grunted into your core, licking and sucking skillfully, guided entirely by pure need and his own instincts.

“You taste so sweet.” It wasn’t long before your legs were trembling and his fingers joined his mouth in an attempt to open you up a little more, to prepare you for what’s to come. “You’re dripping because of me.” He chuckled softly but deeply, chest filled with pride, and he licked your core once again, sucking at the sensitive bud. What he didn’t expect was when he managed to fit one finger inside you, angling it upwards, your back suddenly raised from the bed, hands reaching to his chest, delicately pushing him away. A drowned-out cry escaped your lips, the wetness between your tights increased, your plushy walls fluttered around his finger.

He made you come, and he instantly got addicted to it.

“Yes. Yes. Just like that, beautiful—Fuck.” With a swear word on his lips he wasted no time in slurping up your spent, his fingers from one, going up to two, then three. And when the only thing he could hear were your moans and whimpers, the taste of you imprinted on his tongue, the slide of his fingers smooth and slick—he realized that you were ready for him.

He slowly withdrew from your pussy, pressing one last lingering kiss to your clit. As his fingers slipped out of you, he finally let himself to catch more than a glimpse of your face.

And it shattered him, how utterly ruined you looked. All flushed and heaving, skin glistening with sweat, eyes shining, filled with unshed tears.

He did that to you, and he couldn’t be more proud of himself. He licked his fingers clean, savoring your taste, then he pulled you into an embrace, his arms wrapping around your whole body. Your head dropped on his bicep; your breath labored.

“You okay, kitten?” He asked gently, ignoring his painful erection, still stranded in the stiff fabric of his pants. His head pressed to your neck, and he inhaled the scent, licking off the droplets of sweat in the process. He couldn’t get enough.

“Yes. More than okay.” You answered, and he felt your hand wandering, trying to unbuckle his belt. His chest squeezed. “Need you now. Please, Sylus…”

“You don’t have to beg. I’ll gladly give you my everything. All of me.” His hands left your body for a moment, swiftly taking off his pants, his mouth now kissing your cheeks and nose.

“I want to taste you, too.” You whispered to him shyly, and he grunted, closing his eyes, begging every deity to give him more patience. How he would love for your little mouth to envelop him, but he knew that the sight alone would be enough to make him undone.

“Next time, okay, sweetie? I cannot wait to be inside you.” You giggled and nodded, pressing a kiss to his nose, stroking his hair gently.

He shivered and hissed when he took off his underwear, letting himself out in the open. He was so hard it hurt, his hand going up and down his erection in an attempt to reduce the tension, even though he knew that the only one who could truly satisfy him was you.

“Oh my god.” He heard your gasp, and noticed that you were looking at him, his body fully exposed, his cock heavy in his hand. “Sylus— Sy, it won’t fit. There’s no way that—” He silenced you with a kiss, and swiped his hand through your core, gathering the slick and spreading it on his member. The smooth glide felt so good he lost himself in the feeling for a second, his tongue licking into your mouth, swallowing your gasps.

“Shhh, I made sure to prepare you as well as I could. And I won’t hurt you, you said so yourself.” He said the last sentence into your lips, once again pressing a long kiss there. Then he kissed your cheek, and breathed hard against your neck, his one hand wrapped around your waist, holding you closer to him, and the other stroked his cock, guiding it to your entrance. When the tip touched you, he gritted his teeth and you gasped, the first contact electric. Your arms wrapped around his neck, your fingers playing nervously with the hair at his nape.

He breathed heavily; the tip of his cock aligned perfectly with your entrance. “You can take it; you were made for me. I will make it fit.” He let go of your waist and grabbed one of your hands in his, kissing your knuckles and smiling gently at you, the anticipation making his body shake. “Just relax for me, will you? Can you do that, kitten?” You nodded and exhaled slowly, some tension getting out of your body. He pressed one last kiss to your forehead and intertwined your fingers with his.

“Close your eyes. I want you to feel me.”

“No. I need to see you, Sy. Don’t make me look away.” He chuckled and pressed his forehead against yours in a silent acceptance. He never wanted to take his eyes away from you too, your desires matching perfectly.

You were his soulmate, after all.

He pressed his erection to your opening and started to slip in, gently, unhurriedly, despite the desire to take you in one thrust of his hips. You opened your mouth in a painful moan, squeezing his hand, panic visible in your eyes. He hated that he was bringing you pain, but knew that it was inevitable, he saw how wide he was stretching you out. “It’s okay, sweetheart. Easy. You’re doing so good…” He breathed out, his hand leaving his cock to hold your hip, the other going up and down your body in a comforting caress. “Taking me so well...” His voice hoarse, sweat dripping from his forehead from the strain of keeping himself under control. He managed to put the tip in, your pussy squeezing him, your heat making him shiver, the sensation the most pleasurable he ever felt. He closed his eyes for a second, trying to calm himself down.

“It hurts, it really—it really hurts.” You whispered and he grunted, feeling you squeeze him harder, his length sliding into you deeper. He opened his eyes and lowered his body to get closer to your face, and placed a kiss between your eyebrows.

“I know, love. If you want to me stop—” He couldn’t recognize his voice anymore.

“No. Never. Please.” You kissed his brow, and send him a small smile. “I—I can take it. I was made for you, yeah?”

He huffed out a laugh, a whimper finding a way out at the same time.

“You were. Mmhm. Good.” He slipped in further, his mouth opening wider. “Good girl. Just a little more.” And before he managed to stop the shivering of his body, he burrowed himself in your tight heat almost to the brim. You were not able to take all of him in yet, but it was nearly a perfect fit, the sight of you wrapped around him made him see red, a low moan slipping out of him, your whimpers the most magnificent tune he ever heard.

“I’m going to move now.” He said and you moaned, your head nodding frantically.

He started thrusting inside you, and he felt as if fireworks exploded inside him, the desire burning brightly, need finally calming down, his mind completely at ease. Your moans, whimpers, cute little “ah,ah,ah’s” making his whole body shiver, a smile finding its way onto his swollen lips. You felt so good below him, your warmth enveloping him fully, and he started to question if he truly was worthy of such a blessing.

He didn’t care anymore. He had you, you wanted him and that was all that mattered now.

“You’re so. fucking. tight. God.” He started moving faster to the accompaniment of your small encouragements, his hand holding onto yours. And when your legs wrapped around his hips, bringing him closer to you, he was gone.

He grabbed your waist and lifted up your butt, the pace and force of his thrusts intensifying, his grunts leaving his mouth freely, silent praises slipping from his lips every now and then. He couldn’t stop now. Didn’t want to stop.

“I want—I want to stay inside you forever. I feel—Ah—Mm—like I’m melting.” He moaned and you felt his mouth on your body, kissing every patch of skin he was able to reach. You kept breathing out soft, quiet moans, tears filling your vision. “So cute.”

You felt so good, the stretch now pleasurable, your body accepting him fully, every thrust welcome, each one anticipated.

And he could see that so clearly on your face, his mind calming, knowing that he was able to bring you pleasure. It made him feel better too, your lovely expressions making his blood pump faster, his hips thrust deeper, just to see and hear more tokens of your delight. He was addicted to you and your reactions, to the way you sang his name, the way your skin tasted and eyes glistened every time he managed to catch eye contact.

Time quickly went by when you were losing yourselves in each other. The positions changed constantly, Sylus looking for and finding new ways to tip you over the edge, making sure you were completely satisfied. You encouraged him to leave some marks on you, and you made sure to repay the sentiment, scratching his back with your nails, and pressing hickies on his chest—he already wished for the marks to stay there forever, and you assured him that you’ll stay instead, making him jump on you once again, burying his head in your shoulder.

“Say my name, kitten. Keep—Keep saying my name.” He grunted, his hips unrelenting, your bodies soaked, your own so tired that he had to hold it in his arm for you to not slip off the bed. He kept thrusting inside you from behind, his lips pressing gentle kisses on your neck and shoulder, his movements deep and sensual, pleasure overwhelming. You granted his wish, your voice hoarse and quiet.

You were going at it for hours now, yet he still hasn’t come.

Not because he couldn’t, but because every time he was close, he was slipping out of you, his eyes squeezing shut, a hand gripping himself at the base.

He didn’t want the night to end, refused to let you go, savored the feeling of being buried deep inside you, not knowing where you ended and he began.

“Sy—Mmm—Sylus—Ah.” The words failed you, your mind filled only with pleasure and thoughts of him. You were so tired and yet he made you feel so good you wanted to stay in his arms forever. “The—Ah—The sun is rising.”

He nuzzled into your cheek, his thrusts slowing down, quiet grunts leaving his lips. He sounded wrecked.

“I know, love. You look so wonderful in this light.” He kissed your cheek and glued himself off of you, leaving your body cold and shivering. In the next second, he manhandled you onto your back again, facing him. Your hands immediately flew to cover your face, fearing how completely ruined you must have looked after so much time making love and so many orgasms ripped out of you.

“No—Mmh—Don’t hide yourself from me.” He grunted, and took your hands in his gently, revealing the beautiful mess he managed to make of you. Your face covered in tears, cheeks flushed and lips so swollen it only made him want to kiss them some more. So he did. “Never hide yourself from me, dove. Hold me.” He kissed the palms of your hands and put them on his neck, your arms going to hold him closer. He huffed out a weak laugh, his thrusts not stopping even for a second. You felt his huge hands caressing your thighs and you moaned softly. “God, I’m sorry, kitten, I just can’t stop—I—”

“It’s okay, S—Sylus. Ah—I won’t run away.” You pulled his head closer and kissed his lips softly. His hands encircled your waist, drawing your body closer to him, the hair on his forehead brushing against your chest. Your eyes met his and he seemed to calm slightly, your gaze soothing the flame inside him.

“I love you. I—” You suddenly confessed, a single tear slipping down your cheek. His breath faltered, ruby eyes widening, your words shaking his world completely. “I love you, Sylus. So much. I love you so intensely it scares me, I—Ah—” A moan was ripped from you when he suddenly picked up the pace, the sweat from his forehead landing between your breasts. Another happy tear slipped from your eye, and if you had enough energy to keep your eyes open, you’d see that he was teary-eyed too. His hands grabbed your head, turning it up so he could look straight into your eyes—his own burning with desire and unspoken devotion. He needed to hear you say the words once more, but before he could start pleading for it, you managed to read his mind.

“I love you, Sylus.”

And those words were what finally made him shatter.

He came, so violently he nearly blacked out, his whole body trembling, and movements faltering, his cock buried inside you the deepest he could go. He released grunt after grunt, his arms holding you tight to him, your soft sighs only seemed to prolong his fall. He nuzzled his face up against your neck, then cheek, his lips touching your skin, unable to press more kisses due to the uncontrollable moans coming out of his mouth.

“F-Fuck—” He managed to choke out and you tried to calm your heavy breathing, focused on his cum filling you up, so much that you could already feel it spilling out. You whined and brought your hands to his waist, holding him close, and you came one last time too, your pussy squeezing him even tighter, ripping a short cry out of him. Goosebumps spread around your body from the pleasure and you went pliant in his arms, letting your sore muscles finally rest against the soft sheets.

Sylus relaxed a few moments later, his sweaty body collapsing on top of you, mindful not to put his full weight on you. His hot, heavy breath still warmed your neck, your hearts beating rapidly against each other, showing no signs of calming anytime soon. He managed to turn onto his side, his arms still wrapped around you, taking your body with him.

You were held in a wet, yet warm embrace, his arms protecting you from the cold morning air, your bodies still connected. The silence that ascended upon you comfortable and desired after so much time of intense workout—both throats roughed up and in need of hydration.

“Sylus, I—” You started saying, your voice a rough whisper, your head raising to meet his gaze, surprised that his crimson eyes were already studying you. He put one of his hands on the back of your head, his fingers playing with your hair ever so gently.

His gaze so intense you started to turn your head away, but he gently brought it back to him. He didn’t have to open his mouth for you to understand what he was feeling—the emotion in his eyes unmistakable.

“I love you, too.” He breathed out, his hand going up to your cheek, stroking it with the back of his fingers. His hand was cold and served as a delightful compress for your burning face. “I love you more than any words could ever express.”

He reminded you of a statue under this warm, morning light, his body perfectly sculpted. The only source of color were his cheeks, blaring red, nearly matching the color of his sparkling eyes. His wet hair still bearing the paths carved by your fingers, his lips kissed and twitching, fighting off a smile, which threatened to form when he realized how intensely you were observing him.

“My home is your home, my heart is your heart. Every breath I’ve been taking ever since I met you had already been yours — the day you tell me to cease, I will gladly do so.” He continued, his breath slowly calming down, one of your hands going to stroke his chest.

“I will never tell you to cease, you little dramatic fool.” You answered playfully, blinking away your tears, your hand going to rest on his warm cheek, his face immediately nuzzling into your palm. “If anything, I would curse you to live forever. Soundly and happily, by my side.” A soft laugh came out of his lips; a start of a smile that overtook his entire face, lightening up his features, showing off his small sharp canines.

“By your side...” He repeated, his voice possessing a dream-like quality, a smirk still visible. He swiped his hand over your body: from your shoulder, through your waist, down to your hip, and then back up. His touch soothing as always. “A curse has never sounded so sweet, my little dove.” He closed his eyes, and a sigh escaped his lips. The happiness spread through his body so intensely, that he thought he was going to burst.

Live forever, by your side. There was no other place in the entire universe where he would rather be.

He felt you squirming, a crease appearing between your brows, your hand squeezing his bicep. He hissed, feeling you squeeze him down there too, his cock still buried deep inside you, your plush walls a place he never wanted to leave. However, he knew that after so much time and so many orgasms you needed a break, your body sensitive and in need of extensive pampering. Good thing he adored spoiling you with affection.

“I’m going to pull out now, okay sweetheart?” You nodded your head, a small smile on your lips. You were just too adorable. “And then I’ll put you in a warm bath, order your favorite meal and change the sheets. Any objections?”

“None at all.” He switched your position so that he was once again on top of you, and he gently pulled out, a grunt leaving his lips at the loss of the comfortable fit. You whimpered when his cum started flowing out of you freely, and he couldn’t look away, the sight making the desire in him burn once more. He stopped himself before he started showing the cum back inside you. “Will you join me in the bath too?” He looked at your face, covered in the warm sunlight, the sight making him breathless.

“I would love to, if that’s what you want.” He hugged you to himself one more time, his body covering yours completely, his face finding refuge in the crook of your neck. He grazed the delicate skin with his teeth, then pressed his lips to your pulse, his tongue picking out to lick at your salty skin. “I love you.” He whispered into your neck, basking in the feeling of your heartbeat beneath his lips. “I love you, Y/N. Thank you for showing me what love feels like. Thank you for accepting me.” His breath started going out labored, the intensity of the emotion too big for his body.

“Thank you, for letting me love you. You are the best thing that happened to me, Sylus. I hope you know that.” Your kiss to his temple and your hands caressing his back felt like a blessing, your bodies connected in a soul-crushing hug his own private oasis. Never in his life had he experienced such a moment of total tranquility; only you were capable of bringing him peace.

He never wanted to let you go, and he didn’t have to. No other thought filled him with so much joy. You were his, just as much as he was yours. An ideal exchange of souls.

“I do.” He breathed out, and looked into your loving eyes once again. You smiled at him, and he felt his breath being punched out of him, his ruby eyes fluttering. He shook his head and reciprocated the smile, which quickly turned into a full laugh, your bodies shaking, hearts beating in unison. “I truly do.”

Your lips found his in a kiss that tasted like a promise—of a hand to hold, body to warm up to, and a heart that beat for one another. In every life, every universe, and in every space and time—now, and forevermore.

˙⟡⋆˚✿˖°⟡ bonus! ˙⟡⋆˚✿˖°⟡

“So, which one finally did it?” You asked him nonchalantly, when you were both freshly washed up, lying on the new, pleasurably chilly sheets, basking in the afternoon sunlight. Too exhausted to raise, too happy to fall asleep after the whole night of making love.

His head on your chest stirred slightly, a confusion slowly overtaking his features.

“Hmm?” He opened his eyes, but he didn’t find it in himself to raise. His arms holding your body close to his, tightening their hold, a signal he hoped would make you continue the caress of his back with your fingers.

Your skin bared a fragrance of his soap and his skin, and he felt drunk ever since he noticed it.

“The workout outfit a size too small? Or those jeans at the funfair?” You continued, and his mind started to connect the dots. His eyes widened. “I knew that I would be sticking my ass out a lot that day so I made sure they were extra tight.” He heard you giggle and raised his head immediately, his gaze falling on yours.

“You—”

“What? You were making me wait forever! And don’t get me wrong…” You cupped his cheek, and he was rendered speechless. The whole time he was fighting for his sanity, trying to wait for you, restraining himself from taking you on the nearest piece of furniture — You were riling him up on purpose? “I love that you are a gentleman, and the princess treatment is really nice too, but I just couldn’t wait to have you ravish me, you know? Your girl has needs.”

He was going completely insane. He let out a hearty laugh, and shook his head in disbelief. It seemed that he underestimated you again, forgot that your desires and needs matched his almost perfectly.

And he should’ve known that the workout clothes were a bit too revealing for your liking. Fuck, he should’ve known.

“And it seems my girl is a sly little vixen.” His voice laced with humor, a smile still visible, head impossibly light. He hummed, and kissed a smile off of your plump lips, then your neck, shoulders and chest. You started trembling, and the smile he sent you this time made him look as if he was a wolf studying his pray. You gulped audibly. “Well then, if you decided to manipulate me, then I think you are ready to suffer the consequences.” His kisses reached your breasts, and he took one perky nipple into his mouth, sucking passionately. His other hand grabbed at the other boob, kneading the flesh languidly.

“But it’s already bright outside, shouldn’t we—” A press of his finger on your lips hushed you, and his eyes met yours, his lips still circled around your delicate nipple. With a snap of his fingers the curtains covered the windows, cutting of the only source of light. Darkness enveloped you, making the press of his body on yours even more intimate. Your body was still on fire after the hours of tangling in sheets, every part of you sensitive and tingling under his skilled hands.

“Ah, ah. You’re trembling. Why is that, I wonder?” You heard his voice closer to your ear, and when your eyes got used to the darkness, you saw his eyes filled with mirth and something primal. His hands went slowly up your tights, their destination obvious. “I had no idea that my kitten was that starved. Now I can’t possibly leave her unsatisfied, can I?”

You felt his hands touch your warmest spot, and you let fireworks overtake you once more, your spine twisting to get closer to him. He tasted the skin on your chest again, and went down with his kisses, leaving a happy, wet trial in its wake. He raised suddenly, kissing you on the lips.

“And what about the zipper?” He asked absentmindedly into your lips, remembering the situation that nearly made him lose his mind couple of weeks ago.

“What zipper?” Your confusion truthful, your squeal loud when he suddenly plopped motionless on top of you, a sigh of exasperation leaving his mouth.

It seems that loving you was the beginning of his end, after all.

˙⟡⋆˚✿˖°⟡

thank you for your time! ♡ PLEASE let me know if you liked it, i would appreciate every single comment and engagement!!! i would be so happy to read your reactions (ㅅ´ ˘ `)

June has arrived. Since we’ve just finished midterms, everyone is breathing sighs of relief.

Otoya Ittoki: Morning, Nanami.

Haruka Nanami: Ah. Ittoki-kun, good morning.

Otoya Ittoki: Oh, right. Look at this! Ta-da! Somehow, I managed to get 380 points in my five subjects! This is the first time I've done so well.

As he speaks, Ittoki-kun happily shows me his answer sheet.

Otoya Ittoki: Really, I hit the jackpot. It's all thanks to you!

Ittoki-kun’s ruffling my hair….

My hair’s a little messed up now, but I can’t help but feel happy about it….

Haruka Nanami: No…. That's just a coincidence….

Before midterms, Ittoki-kun and I, along with Tomo-chan, Hijirikawa-sama, and Shinomiya-san, studied together after school.

It was just a coincidence that what I taught Ittoki-kun during that time happened to be on the test.

But, even if that was all, somehow, it makes me really happy that we studied hard.

Tomochika Shibuya: Morning! Haaa~ Really, you saved me! Look: above average in all subjects! You're really good at teaching. In the future, you could master the art of being a teacher. I mean, I guess you've already mastered one art since you're a composer.

Tomo-chan starts laughing.

Haruka Nanami: Er… Um… I'm not really….

Masato Hijirikawa: … You needn’t be humble. You did a very good job.

Natsuki Shinomiya: He's right, you know…. That was the first time I'd seen such nicely organized notes.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, Hijirikawa-sama, Shinomiya-san. Good morning. Um, I hope they served you well.

Still, it really is embarrassing to be praised by everyone like this.

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami, why the red face? Ah, could it be… you’re embarrassed?

Haruka Nanami: Ah… yes. I've never had anyone compliment me like this before.

Otoya Ittoki: Is that true, Nanami? Even though you have a lot of good points. Okay then, from now on I'm going to compliment you a lot.

Haruka Nanami: Eh… y-you don't have to....

Otoya Ittoki: In exchange, praise me since I did a good job!

Ittoki-kun grins as he says that.

Haruka Nanami: I-I will!

Ringo Tsukimiya: Oookay, everyone. Take your seats please, homeroom is starting.

As the teacher enters the room, everyone takes their seats.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Hehe, everyone is here today as well. You're such good kids.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Also, I've received the results from the midterm tests. Incredible, everyone! Your grades were as good as S Class'.

The teacher's statement causes cheers to ring throughout the classroom.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Today's idols need to be smart. When it comes to variety shows, being able to have clever answers can make a big difference.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Ah! That's right, the test next month will be the practical variety show exam, so be prepared, okay?

Otoya Ittoki: Eh, really? That sounds interesting.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Hehe. We have many practical exams!

He winks as he says that.

Tsukimiya-sensei really is cute.

Ringo Tsukimiya: For the variety show exam, you don’t necessarily need to have memorized the information, but if you do, it’ll be a big advantage. Well, random trivia knowledge and such is Shiny's area of expertise, so if you are interested, you can talk to him about it. He’d be delighted to teach you!

Wow…. The principal is also good at trivia. How knowledgeable…. He's amazing.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Well, there's no problem with the paper test, but…. The problem is today's recording test.

That's right. Along with midterm tests, there are also recording tests.

At the beginning of the year, a set piece was given to us; singers practiced with it, and composers made their own arrangements for it.

Composers submitted their versions and the idols are meant to record on the day of the test.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Even though the song is the same, the songs will all sound different due to the singers. Some will be better than others, of course….

Haruka Nanami: Ah… that's true….

Ringo Tsukimiya: There can be a lot of variation even among singers that do well.... There are nuances of rhythm and articulation, and not everyone sings with the same technique. All of you probably started out by copying your favorite artists’ techniques, and until now, you’ve all listened to and practiced songs with vocal tracks included.

Haruka Nanami: … So it will be just like always.

Without knowing the original song, it’s very hard to practice with just the backing track....

Ringo Tsukimiya: However, this time I’ve deliberately given you materials without a temporary vocal track.... It’s not just about fitting the lyrics to the melody. The extreme difficulty of truly singing, of creating a song…. I think you will come to understand that. However, all of you can do it. So, do your best!

The time for the recording test has arrived.

While taking the test, only one person will be in the recording booth at a time.

The people after them can observe from the room next door.

Because it’s Ittoki-kun’s and my turn, we make our way to the recording room.

Inside the booth, the students about to take the test are on standby.

Otoya Ittoki: Recording.... I’m excited!

Even though today is the real deal, Ittoki-kun seems to be himself.

Haruka Nanami: … You're not nervous?

Otoya Ittoki: Not at all. After all, we practiced a ton.

Ever since April, we've been practicing our assigned song.

We interpreted the melody line as best we could, while trying our best to match the rhythm and pitch. So we’ll be fine....

We'll be okay… I think. Why am I so nervous?

Ryuya Hyuga: Okay, we're all set over here. Are you ready to sing?

S Class teacher Ryuya Hyuga speaks into the mic that’s connected to the recording booth.

Ryuya Hyuga, while also an active idol, is also the director of Shining Agency.

A versatile person, he's not only an amazing actor and singer, but is also good at managing the office, writing lyrics, composing, and sound direction.

For today's recording test, he’s handling all the sound controls on his own.

Voice from the booth: Yes, I'm ready.

Ryuya Hyuga: Okay then. State your name and class into the mic. After that, I’ll play the track. You won't be able to restart if you mess up, so get ready.

Tokiya Ichinose: Understood. S Class, Tokiya Ichinose.

For some reason, when I hear that person’s voice, my heart thuds in my chest. That smooth, deep voice….

… I feel like I've heard that voice before. But where…?

As I continue to ponder it, Ichinose-san begins to sing.

… Wow. Both his pitch and rhythm are perfect. Hmm. But this isn't just perfect…

He's making the song entirely his own. He has absolute precision, a self-assured sense of rhythm down to a fraction of a beat.

He swings between off-beat and on-beat, matching each phrase to the music freely in a way that seems effortless.

Even his volume is perfect, so that every single note is audible.

His pronunciation is so clear that I can discern each and every word, down to each consonant and vowel.

He is also controlling his breathing so that the mic can't pick up his breaths. Every sound—every line—is clean and accurate.

Amazing… I think, even among professionals, there are few that can do the same.

Otoya Ittoki: That guy… he’s amazing….

I glance over at Ittoki-kun. His hand is clenched into a shaking fist, crushing the score.

Ryuya Hyuga: Well, that's good for now. As usual, an almost annoyingly perfect performance. Impeccable, even. In fact, you followed the music sheets with such precision that it’s missing some charm. Personal feelings aside, you passed the test flawlessly. You can exit now.

Tokiya Ichinose: Yes, sir. … Pleasure working with you.

I gasp in surprise when I see the student who walks out of the booth.

HAYATO-sama!!!

I couldn’t see his face very well from where I was sitting…. Now I know.

It’s undeniably HAYATO-sama. But… what is an active, mega-successful idol doing here?

Select the phrase!

HAYATO-sama?! (+0 Love +0 Music)

I exclaim without thinking.

HAYATO-sama turns to look at me with a strange expression before sighing.

Tokiya Ichinose: ... Oh, this again.

Otoya Ittoki: No, Nanami. This isn't Hayato. This is his younger twin brother.

Haruka Nanami: Brother? HAYATO-sama's? I had no idea. I'm a failure as a fan....

C-could I have an autograph? (+0 Love +0 Music)

Ryuya Hyuga: Hey, you. We aren't fooling around here. Besides, that isn't Hayato.

Haruka Nanami: ... What? No matter how you look at him, he looks just like HAYATO-sama.

Ryuya Hyuga: He's Tokiya Ichinose, Hayato's younger twin brother. Sorry about this, Ichinose.

Tokiya Ichinose: ... No, I've gotten used to it.

Haruka Nanami: HAYATO-sama's brother.... I've never heard anything like that....

.... (+20 Love +5 Music)

Ryuya Hyuga: As always, an impersonal, perfect performance.

Tokiya Ichinose: ... Thank you very much.

Ryuya Hyuga: That wasn't a compliment....

Haruka Nanami: Ah, um... Sensei, is this person...?

Ryuya Hyuga: Hm? Ah, this guy is the younger brother of a currently-popular idol. You've probably heard of HAYATO, right?

Haruka Nanami: Yes. I'm surprised to see someone who looks just like him.

Ryuya Hyuga: Well, it's no wonder they look alike. They're twins.

Haruka Nanami: Twins?! It's the first I've heard about that.... I see, HAYATO-sama's younger brother....

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami, could it be that you’re a fan of HAYATO?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, yes. The reason I decided to become a composer was because of him. He's an idol I look up to.

Otoya Ittoki: I see…. So that's what it was… HAYATO….

As if he's troubled, Ittoki-kun's profile changes slightly for a moment.

Was it... just my imagination?

Ryuya Hyuga: Okay, next! Otoya Ittoki, enter the booth.

Otoya Ittoki: … Yes.

Tokiya Ichinose: Otoya's song… Sensei, is it alright if I listen too?

Ryuya Hyuga: Huh? Oh, that's right, you two are roommates. Okay, listen to your rival’s song carefully.

Tokiya Ichinose: Rival? As if. He won't be able to surpass me. I’m just a little curious, that’s all.

Ichinose-san speaks with an amused smile.

The next moment, Ittoki-kun's recording test begins.

But Ittoki-kun isn’t his usual self at all, and even begins messing up in places he hadn't before.

We’re told to retake the test in two weeks.

Otoya Ittoki: Haaa....

Tokiya Ichinose: Otoya. Good job.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, Tokiya…. So you heard me too....

Tokiya Ichinose: Yes, I asked for permission to listen. Even though I couldn't bear to hear it, I would dare say there was a unique feeling to it. I thought your song was very much like you.

Otoya Ittoki: Wha…. It was…. It was that bad?

Haruka Nanami: N-no, not at all….

Tokiya Ichinose: Although you were vocalizing, you didn’t form a proper song. Even if you have feelings, they’re meaningless if you can’t convey them.

Ryuya Hyuga: You hardly have room to talk, seeing as I couldn’t feel any emotions in your song either. I wouldn’t buy either of your songs.

Tokiya Ichinose: What was wrong with my song?

Ryuya Hyuga: If you two fused together, you would be perfect. Ittoki’s technique is a little off…. And Ichinose, you don't put enough soul into your songs.

Tokiya Ichinose: Soul? Where does that unscientific nonsense come into it?

Ryuya Hyuga: That's why you’re no good. The feelings you put into a song can change its impact completely. What’s important is the human emotion, not just the actual song.

Tokiya Ichinose: I don’t understand at all. You're saying this so-called “soul” is in his song?

Ryuya Hyuga: Yeah, or at least more than yours. You have to expose your true feelings and put your heart into the song. Even though it sounds simple, it's actually very hard to do.

Tokiya Ichinose: Then, let me do the retest as well. Two weeks from now, I’ll perform a more perfect song than I did just now. Please judge me at that time.

Tokiya Ichinose: Let's find out whose song is better. I hope that’s okay with you as well, Otoya.

Otoya Ittoki: Okay. Challenge accepted!

Otoya Ittoki: A retest....

When I return to the classroom, I find Ittoki-kun alone and muttering to himself.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, er, cheer up…. You probably just happened to be in bad shape this time.

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah, but to say that my condition was the problem is just an excuse. Hearing him sing really rattled me. I… I was overconfident. I thought I was great at singing. I thought as long as I put my feelings into it, it would be a good song. But I was wrong. My songs are only at the level of a person singing karaoke.

Haruka Nanami: B-but…. This song was really difficult and there was no sample vocal track, so that made it even....

Otoya Ittoki: But it was the same for him. The conditions were the exact same, yet his singing was totally different. That was professional-level singing.

Certainly, Ichinose-san's singing was amazing. He could most certainly pass as a professional now.

Haruka Nanami: B-but I really liked your song, Ittoki-kun.

Otoya Ittoki: Really? Hearing you say that makes me happy. But, how I am now isn't enough. Nanami, will you… lend me your strength?

Ittoki-kun reaches out and grabs my hand.

Select the phrase!

If you're okay with me (+10 Love +0 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: I'm glad. I thought you would say that. Let's work hard together!

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

Yes! Of course! (+30 Love +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: We're partners, after all. We share a common destiny, so why wouldn't I help...?

Otoya Ittoki: Sharing a common destiny.... I like the sound of that. So, does that mean you'll stay by my side forever?

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Ah, sure. If you need me....

A lifetime.... It would be nice if we could work together until the very end.

Otoya Ittoki: I see. Hm. Of course! Because we're partners!

I'll do my best (+20 Love +0 Music)

I tighten my grip on Ittoki-kun's hand.

Otoya Ittoki: Your hand is so warm.... I feel relaxed. But....

Ittoki-kun looks deep into my eyes.

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami. You love HAYATO, right?

Ittoki-kun whispers something in a small voice and averts his gaze.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, sorry. It's nothing.

He suddenly releases my hand.

Haruka Nanami: ....

Otoya Ittoki: The difference between me and him…. I wonder what my strengths are. Right now, I feel like I'm going to lose even if I give it my all.

Haruka Nanami: That's not true. You have a lot of good points, Ittoki-kun.

Otoya Ittoki: But none of that means anything if it doesn't help me beat him. I wonder, am I better than him in anything?

Haruka Nanami: Maybe in “heart”….

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah. But without enough skill, I can’t express that, right?

I don't agree…. I don’t think I'm getting my words across…. In that case….

I start singing the exam piece on the spot.

Otoya Ittoki: Eh…? Isn't this the exam song?

Even though I can write songs, I'm not very good at singing them.

Because of how shy I am, I trip over my words, my voice doesn't project very much, and my articulation is poor.

I know that I am not good at expressing myself, so I don’t sing well at all. But I want to show Ittoki-kun that singing isn't just about being talented at using your voice.

You have to sing with your heart.

Otoya Ittoki: ….

Haruka Nanami: ... H-how was it?

Otoya Ittoki: Honestly…. It wasn't that good. But….

Haruka Nanami: But?

Otoya Ittoki: For some reason, it felt warm.

Haruka Nanami: … Did you understand my feelings?

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah. I felt it right here.

Ittoki-kun pats his chest.

Haruka Nanami: … I'm glad. It's true that Ichinose-san's song was really good. Both his rhythm and pitch were perfect…. But… there was no “heart” in it. And you don't have the same technical skills to put into your song, but your songs do have “heart.” Not every song that sells is well-sung, right? Even if they're a little bad, they will still touch the hearts of listeners.

Otoya Ittoki: I see. Certainly, there’s no reason why everyone should sing the same way. Surely, there is a song that only I can sing....

Otoya Ittoki: Hey, Nanami. Will you search for it with me?

Haruka Nanami: Yes! Let’s look for it together, your “song”….

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah….

Suddenly, the hand holding mine moves to grab my shoulder.

Otoya Ittoki: Once more, let's do our best!

Haruka Nanami: … Yes!

I gingerly reach out and grab onto Ittoki-kun’s shoulder.

Haruka Nanami: I'll do my best as well.

From then on, we practice every day until late into the night.

Otoya Ittoki: Ahh…. What should I do?

Haruka Nanami: For singing practice, there’s vocalization, rhythm, and articulation... right?

Otoya Ittoki: I see. Hey. What do you think I should start with?

Haruka Nanami: Well, let's see.

Select the phrase!

Vocalization (+10 Love +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Tsukimiya-sensei is always saying that vocalization is the best thing to work on first. But... apparently studying vocalization takes at least three years to master if you’re just starting out.

Otoya Ittoki: Three years…. That's too long. The graduation auditions would have already passed.

Ittoki-kun hangs his head.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, hang on a moment.

I begin flipping through the materials from the library, trying to find something we could work on now.

Haruka Nanami: Let’s see… It seems the most important thing is the breath control, so let's see how you do with that. Because your abdominal muscles are strong, you should be able to learn this quickly once you get the hang of it. Um, stand straight, pull down your abdominal muscles while pulling up your back… You should feel your backside lifting. Er… I think… like this…. Can you try touching here to make sure?

I take up the posture and signal with my hand to have Ittoki-kun touch me.

Otoya Ittoki: Errr… are you sure…?

Haruka Nanami: Yes. I think it would be easier for you to understand how your abdominal and back muscles should feel by actually feeling them. Well, right around here.

Otoya Ittoki: O-okay then....

Ittoki-kun reaches out tentatively.

Otoya Ittoki: … You have such a thin waist, Nanami….

Haruka Nanami: Huh? What….

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, s-sorry! I just….

Ittoki-kun blushes bright red, pulling his hands back.

Haruka Nanami: It's fine….

The atmosphere’s gotten awkward.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, well, um... Next up is to relax your body, and tense the muscles at the pit of your stomach. By doing that, you should be able to control your breath. Tomo-chan says that if you do that, you can make a single breath last a long time. She also said that it’s good if you control your articulation with your stomach.

I hastily change the subject.

Tomo-chan has been singing since middle school, and has tried a lot of techniques for herself.

Because of that, she's taught me all sorts of things.

Otoya Ittoki: The pit of the stomach… so, around here?

Haruka Nanami: Let's see… Bend over and exhale as much as you can, and then correct your posture before taking another breath. You should feel like your diaphragm is being sucked into your chest. I heard you should focus at the one point where the diaphragm is being sucked in the most.

Ittoki-kun begins trying it out as soon as I finish explaining.

Otoya Ittoki: Ugh…. This is really tough.

Haruka Nanami: Take a deep breath, hold it for five seconds, and then try breathing out all the way and straightening up like before, and hold for five seconds. It’s difficult, but it seems like it helps with technique. You know, Tomo-chan does three sets in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

Otoya Ittoki: I see, Tomochika is doing her best too. Anything else? Are there any other exercises?

Haruka Nanami: Well, there's one where, while you’re singing, if you hold your hand in front of your mouth and can’t feel your breath, it’s a sign that your voice is resonating. A resonating voice uses very little breath. If you master it, you should be able to sustain your notes longer without straining for air....

Otoya Ittoki: I see... what else?

Haruka Nanami: Other than that, um….

After that, I tell Ittoki-kun everything I know about voice training.

Normally, just because you learned some tips and tricks, it wouldn’t mean you could master it quickly.

Ittoki-kun uses his natural intuition to make the knowledge his own.

Rhythm (+5 Love +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Well, it really sounds good when the rhythm is just right.

Otoya Ittoki: The rhythm…. You know, when I put too much feeling into my singing, I can feel my rhythm starts to slip.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, I know what you mean…. How about you teach your body to remember the beats, so you always feel the rhythm? Listen to the demo without singing, and count out the beats, 1, 2, 3, 4. While you do that, put your index finger and your thumb together on 1, switch to your middle finger on 2, your ring finger on 3, and your pinkie and thumb together on 4. The moment you put your fingers together is the “on-beat” and the moment you switch is the “off-beat.” Pay close attention to the “off-beat.”

Otoya Ittoki: Hey, you can do this with one hand. This makes it easy to practice.

Haruka Nanami: If you continue to count off the song, you’ll start figuring out where it’s best to sing. For example, it seems it can help to tap your hand on your thigh on the 2 and 4 while singing.That way, it should be harder for your rhythm to slip.

Otoya Ittoki: Got it. Let me try for a bit.

Ittoki-kun begins to practice while listening to the drum line.

He shouldn’t have been able to develop a sense of rhythm right away. However, it's not long before Ittoki-kun is able to make the test song’s rhythm his own.

His sense of rhythm must have been quite good from the start.

Articulation (+5 Love +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Um, you can’t immediately become good at vocalization and rhythm, but with articulation, as long as you are careful with certain points, I think there is room for improvement…

Haruka Nanami: Words have vowels and consonants, but vowels are what really make a rhythm. If you look at a music sheet, vowels are where the music notes are placed. It’s good to place the consonant a moment right before the vowel. If we’re talking about “KA”, then it’s good to have the “A” sound really fit into the rhythm.

Otoya Ittoki: Ooh, is that so? I've been singing without ever being aware of that!

Haruka Nanami: Also, try to overemphasize the consonants. I heard if you sing like how you talk, the consonants become lost and you can’t hear each word clearly anymore.

Otoya Ittoki: I see, overemphasizing.... Okay, gotcha. I’ll try it out.

Once Ittoki-kun begins singing, his articulation improves greatly.

An average person wouldn’t be able to do this just by hearing a piece of advice once.

Ittoki-kun really is amazing.

After that, we try everything we can think of.

Haruka Nanami: Okay, let's listen to what we just recorded.

When I play the recordings back, Ittoki-kun listens with a serious look on his face.

Haruka Nanami: What's wrong? I think you’ve gotten a lot better…

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah. From listening to this, I would say my technique is improving. But it doesn't feel like it's enough. I can’t beat him like this…

Ittoki-kun clenches his fists.

I… I have to say something….

There should be a breakthrough strategy….

I’ve got to think about Ittoki-kun's good points and the songs that only he can sing….

Oh, that's right….

Haruka Nanami: Your expressions….

Otoya Ittoki: Huh?

Haruka Nanami: Ittoki-kun, when you sing freely, you put so much emotion into your face and hand movements. When you record, it's like you get nervous. You have no facial expressions and your hands don't move at all…. I know you’re taking it seriously, but you don't look like you’re having fun….

Otoya Ittoki: Maybe it really is like that…. I was just thinking that I had to sing well….

Haruka Nanami: I think that your emotions are a good point for your song, so why not try singing like you usually do?

Otoya Ittoki: It's true that your voice changes with your expressions and movements. Maybe that would help me convey my feelings better.

Otoya Ittoki: Of course, that's it! That feels way more natural. I’ll try it out!

And with that, the next song he sings is wonderful.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, this feels much more like my normal singing. Thank you, Nanami! If I was alone, I probably would have just gotten discouraged.

Haruka Nanami: … That's not true….

Otoya Ittoki: I'm really glad that I met you... and I’m so glad I came to this school.

Otoya Ittoki: Alright! I'm going to sing my heart out for the retake!

By the time I arrive at the recording room, Ichinose-san is already there.

Tokiya Ichinose: Well? Did you improve a little over these two weeks?

Otoya Ittoki: Yep!

Tokiya Ichinose: I'm looking forward to it.

Ryuya Hyuga: Okay, we’re all set here. Ittoki, head in.

Otoya Ittoki: Yes! ... I'm up.

Haruka Nanami: Okay, break a leg.

Tokiya Ichinose: ...!!!

Ryuya Hyuga: Oh… not bad. He’s advanced a lot in just two weeks.

Tokiya Ichinose: … Otoya, you're different from before. What is this heart-wrenching feeling…?

Even though Ittoki-kun's song is less technically perfect than Ichinose-san's, Ittoki-kun's song is more appealing to me than Ichinose-san's.

It’s a song that grabs you and doesn’t let go. It’s just enjoyable to listen to.

Ryuya Hyuga: It seems you finally realized it. He has something you lack.

Tokiya Ichinose: ….

Ryuya Hyuga: It's not enough to just sing the score. Well, even after improving this much, he still has a long way to go.

Ryuya Hyuga: There's no relaxing for you, Mr. S Class Ace.

Tokiya Ichinose: … If I’m missing something, I can deal with it. I can overcome my shortcomings.

Ryuya Hyuga: … Is that so? Well, good luck.

Hyuga-sensei claps Ichinose-san on the shoulder with a loud clap.

Ryuya Hyuga: Alright. Hang out in there until I can confirm the recording. I won't keep you waiting, though. This time, you pass.

Otoya Ittoki: Yes! Thank you very much!

Haruka Nanami: Alright!

Tokiya Ichinose: Hm? You are…? I see, you're Otoya's partner, correct?

Suddenly, Ichinose-san looks me in the eye. Seeing him this way, he really does look like HAYATO-sama.

Tokiya Ichinose: I heard about you from Otoya. Rather, he won't shut up about you, not even for a single minute.

Ittoki-kun talks about me?

Tokiya Ichinose: It seems that you’re a large part of the reason he’s gotten this far. How about it? Do you have any advice you can give me?

Haruka Nanami: A-advice?

To be asked so suddenly, um, well....

Haruka Nanami: Well… Ichinose-san, your music is… perfect, but it feels like it's in pain.

Tokiya Ichinose: In pain?

Haruka Nanami: Yes. I am sure you are facing your music seriously, and you are pushing yourself to make the best music possible. But.... As long as you are hurting yourself, your pain is passed along to those who listen to it. I like music too and I can understand the feeling of wanting to make a good product even if you were to suffer. But…. Go back to the beginning. Why not try singing with the feeling of loving music?

Tokiya Ichinose: The feeling of loving music…. Thank you, I’ll try that this time.

Ichinose-san laughs softly.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, no… I apologize. I said something really presumptuous....

Ryuya Hyuga: No, your advice really hit straight at the point. You’re shaping up to be a great composer.

Haruka Nanami: Th-thank you very much!

Ryuya Hyuga: … Okay, the review is done. Ittoki, you can come out now.

Otoya Ittoki: Thank you for your support!

Ryuya Hyuga: Nope, that was all your hard work. It all worked out somehow. Well then, next up is Ichinose….

Tokiya Ichinose: Yes. Otoya, it’s true that today you’ve done better. However, I’m not going to lose.

Otoya Ittoki: I know. I’ll be listening to your song carefully!

Ryuya Hyuga: We’re ready here. Cue the music.

Ichinose-san's song has gotten even better since the last time I heard it, two weeks ago. I even managed to feel some 'heart' as well.

Even so, it’s not quite there yet.

Tokiya Ichinose: How was it?

Ryuya Hyuga: Well, it was much better than last time. However…. There’s still something missing… but I guess this is it.

Shining Saotome: HAHAHA~ Not quite there, MISTER Ichinose.

Ryuya Hyuga: Gah, President!

Otoya Ittoki: Eh, the principal? Wha—where???

Tokiya Ichinose: Up.

Saying that, Ichinose-san points. Following his finger, I see the principal with his hands and feet securely holding onto the ceiling.

Shining Saotome: Nice job at discovering me, MISTER Ichinose. Really nice work. HUP!

Despite making that exclamation, the principal ends up falling from the ceiling. As he lands, he makes a very uncomfortable CRACK sound.

He stands up quickly, as if nothing had happened.

Ryuya Hyuga: Ugh. As always, he’s like a monster….

Shining Saotome: Hm~? Did you say something, Ryuya-saaan?

Ryuya Hyuga: ... No, nothing…. Nothing at all.

Shining Saotome: MISTER Ichinose and MISTER Ittoki. They are in different classes but are two buddies who share the same room.

Tokiya Ichinose: Our relationship is nothing special. It’s neither good nor bad.

Otoya Ittoki: No way! I always thought that we were friends!

Tokiya Ichinose: I don’t plan on becoming friends with my rival. As my roommate, my minimum requirement is to keep the relationship civil.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, I’m in shock....

Shining Saotome: Yes, you two are good rivals. You will surpass and be surpassed, work hard, and grow together. That is the way of Japan’s male youth. THAT’S WHY! The winner is YOU, MISTER Ittoki.

Otoya Ittoki: ... Eh…. Me?

Tokiya Ichinose: ... I… lost…?

Shining Saotome: It was a difficult decision. It was hard to decide which one of you was better. BUT, today MISTER Ittoki won by a close margin. Of course, MISTER Ittoki is nowhere near surpassing MISTER Ichinose in technical skills. BUT the song that made MY heart react was your song, MISTER Ittoki.

Haruka Nanami: You mean, the decision was based... on your preference?

Shining Saotome: You could say that, but preference is important. Plus, MISTER Ittoki’s speed of improvement is monstrous. I’m really looking forward to more! Expressing emotions requires a talent and sense beyond effort! And, MISTER Ittoki has it. Those are the songs that are called inspirational. People like those songs! As such, I like MISTER Ittoki’s song!

Ryuya Hyuga: No matter how good your technique is, no one will buy a song that doesn’t resonate with them. On the other hand, people may find that they want to listen to a song again, even if it is technically imperfect. In short, what matters if whether a person likes a song or not and if it’s to their taste.

Shining Saotome: THAT’S RIGHT. When my heart throbs, I want that song. Different techniques are only a means to express from the heart. There’s no meaning to technique if you don’t have heart. Remember this for next time! Learn to light your heart’s fire.

Tokiya Ichinose: ... Yes, sir.

Ichinose-san answers, clenching his fists.

I get the impression that he tries to be a calm person, but that he might actually be the fiery type.

Shining Saotome: Good boy. Both of you, keep up the good work! Well then, until next time.

The principal hits the floor with his fist and then a square-shaped fissure appears on the floor. The square portion of the floor begins to slowly sink like an elevator.

As soon as he disappears below, two floor tiles slide over the hole left behind and close it shut.

Ryuya Hyuga: I can never understand him…. Well, whatever. You pass the retake, both of you.

Ryuya Hyuga: Do your best to pass the first time around next time, okay? Rather, don’t make me have to do this bothersome thing again. Got it?

Tokiya Ichinose: Yes, sir.

Otoya Ittoki: Yes, sir.

Haruka Nanami: ... Congratulations on passing the retest.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, thank you…. But I still can’t believe I beat Tokiya. He really is good. On top of that, he looks just like HAYATO….

Haruka Nanami: Well… his looks don’t matter in this situation.... They're twins. It can't be helped.

Otoya Ittoki: But Nanami, you like him. HAYATO, I mean.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, yes. He is my favorite idol. He is always bright and fun. I feel better whenever I watch him. But lately… I like Ittoki-kun’s songs even more. Like the one you just sang, I really liked it.

Otoya Ittoki: Really?! Are you serious?

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

I nod earnestly. Even now I still really, really like HAYATO-sama, but….

Now I'm more interested in Ittoki-kun. When he becomes an idol, he may become even bigger than HAYATO-sama.

That's how it feels.

Otoya Ittoki: I see… I see now. So I’m…. Hey... Nanami. Will you go on a date with me?

Haruka Nanami: ... Eh?

Otoya Ittoki: As a thank you…. What I mean is… I want to know more about you.

Otoya Ittoki: Not just the school you, but more about the normal you.

Haruka Nanami: ... If you're okay with me… I wouldn’t mind.

Otoya Ittoki: Really?! ... Thank goodness. I was afraid you would refuse….

Haruka Nanami: ... I wouldn’t do that. Never…. When I’m with you… I have so much fun.

Otoya Ittoki: I’m happy to hear that. Once again, I look forward to being with you.

He extends his right hand.

Haruka Nanami: ... Same here.

I take his hand. I have to do my best for Ittoki-kun's sake. For that reason….

Select the phrase!

I have to study composing (+0 Love +10 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Alright, I'm going to write one song a day to get better at composing~!

Ittoki-kun watches me pump my fist in the air and laughs.

Ah... he's laughing at me.

I have to study songs, too (+0 Love +5 Music)

I'm sure it would be best for me to understand singing and vocals as well, not just composing.

I have to get closer to Ittoki-kun (+20 Love +0 Music)

As I'm thinking, I glance at Ittoki-kun and see him smiling at me.

I've been at this school for three months. There are still many things I don't know.

However, I am sure the two of us can aim even higher. That's why I'm going to do my best!

Haruka Nanami: Haaa… I ended up staying late again....

I always think I might be able to go home just a little earlier to write compositions and study music, but then I end up cleaning and helping the teachers….

I can rarely refuse anything if I am asked. Rather, I like that others can rely on me....

Kuppuru: Meow....

Haruka Nanami: Ah, Kuppuru. Did you come to pick me up?

Kuppuru: Mew!

Haruka Nanami: Haha… thank you….

I suddenly hear a beautiful voice coming from the back garden.

Ah, could it be....

Ah…. It’s Ichinose-san. And he's even better than before.

Select the phrase!

Listen (+0 Love +5 Music)

I listen to the song, not wanting to disturb Ichinose-san.

His voice is soft, kind, and clear....

It's a charming singing voice, different from Ittoki-kun's.

I don't want to bother him, so I decide to leave.

Leave (+0 Love +0 Music)

It seems that he's practicing in secret, so it would be wrong to disturb him.

Kuppuru: Meow....

Haruka Nanami: Shhh....

Kuppuru and I leave quietly.

Call out (+0 Love +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: Ichinose-sa....

I can't seem to make myself call out to him. His singing voice sounds so sorrowful....

It feels like something I shouldn't interrupt....

I leave quietly so that Ichinose-san won't notice me.

Haruka Nanami: Hey Kuppuru.... Ichinose-san is really great.

Kuppuru: Meow....

Haruka Nanami: We beat him once... but.... We shouldn't be content with just that. Everyone is working hard. I have to work even harder. I'll be overtaken quickly....

I figure that Ittoki-kun, since he’s rooming with Ichinose-san and his high abilities, must feel even more pressure every day….

I’m only able to make songs and I don't know what songs Ichinose-san's partner will make….

I will do what I can. I have to make songs that can draw out all of Ittoki-kun's appeal!

Mini game

Ringo Tsukimiya: Oookay, everyone! For today’s private lesson, you’ll be studying lyrics~! Normally, the composition comes first and you would be writing lyrics for that composition....

Ringo Tsukimiya: Depending on the situation, the melody is tweaked to help fit the lyrics in. There are some rare cases where, during recording, the lyrics are changed a little because they didn’t flow well with the composition.

Don’t think that just because you’re a composer, you should only focus on composing. Try studying a variety of things. The lyrics to a song are meant to go along with a melody, so focus less on the general flow of the words and more on the individual lines. Now then, I’ll have you write lyrics for this test composition! I thought that having you write everything from scratch would be difficult, so I made a fill-in-the-blank test. Choose the word from a number of words that you think would fit the song the best. Once you’re done, I’ll grade the test.

Well then, let’s begin!

S Rank

The next morning, I have Ittoki-kun look over the completed lyrics.

Otoya Ittoki: Wow... I like it. These words... I feel them in my heart. Your personality shines through. I love these lyrics!

Haruka Nanami: Thank you!

I see.... Ittoki-kun likes the lyrics.

What other lyrics would he like? I have to ask a lot of questions and get his input from now on too.

As May begins, we grow accustomed to school life.

Tomochika Shibuya: So, Haruka. Is everything going well with Otoya?

As soon as Golden Week is over and we're back in school, Tomo-chan asks me that.

Haruka Nanami: We still haven't made a song, but…we are practicing together a lot.

We spent Golden Week practicing like crazy after deciding to give our all together. Ittoki-kun sings like he’s having so much fun, it made me enjoy playing as well.

Tomochika Shibuya: I see, so the two of you practice together. How nice.

Haruka Nanami: Isn’t it for you too, Tomo-chan?

Tomo-chan should also have a partner.

Tomochika Shibuya: Ah, well…. That bastard, from the first meeting he told me “I like high notes so if you cannot reach soprano you cannot sing it.” And kept rambling about stuff like that. Well, my principle is to take on every fight so I will accept his challenge! Just wait and see! I’ll master mixed-voice and sing five whole octaves, dammit! Well, for now we've agreed to work separately. Once we both reach a result we agree on, we'll start practicing together. I'm so jealous of you, to be honest. Aah~ I wish you and I were partners.

… Even though she’s saying that, Tomo-chan seems to be having fun.

Otoya Ittoki: Good morning, Nanami. Three days no see…

Tomochika Shibuya: He~eh. Three days no see, huh? You two have been practicing together during Golden Week, right?

Otoya Ittoki: Eh? What? Did I say something weird?

Tomochika Shibuya: No, I was just commenting on how good your relationship is.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, yeah. It’s like we’re on the same wavelength. I heard that a composer and an idol’s relationship is like a three-legged race.​ Well, it really feels like it.

Shining Saotome: Exactly. The composer and the idol’s relationship is like a three-legged race, two hearts beating as one!

Tomochika Shibuya: Whoa, what was that!?

Otoya Ittoki: Principal, how long have you been here?!

Shining Saotome: HA HA HAAA~~ The walls have ears, my dears, and doors have Iris. Heeeeere is Shining in the cleaning closet!

Haruka Nanami: Amazing…. As expected of the principal…At any given time, he keeps watch over us.

What an amazing person. Oh my, what a caring teacher he is. I might really respect him….

Otoya Ittoki: Eeh! That's what you are shocked about?

Shining Saotome: HA HA HAAA~~ MISS Nanami. It seems you understand me very well. I shall give you a reward.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… no… that's…. I don’t….

Shining Saotome: Now then, I hereby announce Saotome Academy's gateway to success, the Idol Strengthening Training from Heeell. Moreover, this time specially YOU and MISTER Ittoki will be guided by ME personally through it!

Haruka Nanami: J-Just us…? Especially…?

Shining Saotome: Ha ha ha~~ Last month, I heard the two of you singing on the roof. The two of you have quiiite the talent! Because it's ME saying that, there is no doubt!

The principal is going to teach us right after entering school, how lucky we are. Ahh, I'm so thankful!

Shining Saotome: The seventh “The Idol and the Composer are Always Like a Three-Legged Race Team In the Entertainment Industry, Therefore Search for the Idol's Endorsement in an Actual Three-Legged Race ” Championship…..shall now begin! Don-Don-Don-Pappu!

Shining Saotome: …Hn, not a lot of applause, huh~ No good , no good. Youth are the best at being energetic.... Now, applause!

After the school president appeared in the classroom, A Class is told to change into their jerseys and meet outside. Once we all get to the grounds, Tsukimiya-sensei hands out towels to each pair and gives instructions for the three-legged race. So Ittoki-kun and I are joined at the foot, but… for some reason, my heart is pounding…

Otoya Ittoki: Let’s work hard, Nanami!

Haruka Nanami: Y... Yes. I'll do my best....

Tomochika Shibuya: Doing your best for this is good and all but…. Earlier, didn't he say that he would give only the two of you special training? So why bother increasing the number of contestants?...Wait, he just said “the seventh,” which means this happens every year? Aw, come on. I don't even know a good place to begin unpacking all of this.

Haruka Nanami: Um… where's your partner, Tomo-chan?

Tomo-chan is still wearing her uniform and came out to the grounds alone.

Tomochika Shibuya: …You. In this situation, you want to start there?

Haruka Nanami: Ah…s-sorry. I was just worried…

Tomochika Shibuya: No, it's okay…. It looked troublesome, so he passed. Well, it's not just my partner; half the class is too scared to participate.

Now that she's mentioned it, half the class is still in their uniforms, watching from the shadows of the trees. Come to think of it, before heading to the grounds, the principal said, “While we’re at it, I will allow all of A Class to participate. Pass this trial and you will be one step closer to the star of the idol. However, should you fail…there is a risk that you may not just receive serious injuries, but also get caught in this and that, so people who are unsure should waaatch from the sidelines~ BUT the entire class must participate, so even if you decide that you do not want to participate, pleeeease come down and watch.”

Or, I think that’s what he said. What did he mean by “this and that”...? I wonder....

Tomochika Shibuya: So? Why have Masato and Natsuki paired up with each other?

Natsuki Shinomiya: Huh... I wonder why? Before I realized it, I was connected with Masato-kun.

Masato Hijirikawa: …Tsukimiya-sensei said that there is a lack of rivals and fun to this, so he recommended us to participate.

Haruka Nanami: And what about your partners?

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ah, my partner composer seems to have the start-of-school blues and is taking a break from class. And I believe Masato-kun's partner composer is absent today due to a cold.

Masato Hijirkawa: Tsukimiya-sensei said that in this case, even though we are friends, it would be better to become rivals. Sensei made the point that “a good rival makes an even better friend.” …It would be impolite to respond unfavorably to that sentiment.

Otoya Ittoki: “A good rival,” huh? That's really interesting. Ah, that makes me a little excited! Hey, don’t you agree?

Select the phrase!

…It is heart-pounding. (+20 Love +5 Music)

Otoya Ittoki: Are you a little nervous? Here, do a breathing exercise with me. Now: in, out. Once more. In... and out. Well, feeling less nervous?

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes. A little…

… Even though that's what I said, to participate in a three-legged race be connected with Ittoki-kun is….

My heart is not going to stop pounding so easily.

Up till now, I haven’t properly done three-legged races, not even folk dancing....

Honestly, this is the first time I've been in such close contact with a man.

I hope that the pounding of my heart isn't heard by Ittoki-kun….

Shining Saotome: Everyooone. OK, ready? Well, even if you aren't ready, I'm gonna begin. Now, everyone. Please do your best in finding the Idol's Endorsements that are hidden on caaampus.

Otoya Ittoki: Sensei, question. What exactly is the Idol's Endorsement?

Shining Saotome: … Ha ha haaa. Well then, everyone, please do your best in finding the hidden Idol's Endorsement.

Otoya Ittoki: Wow, I was ignored…

Ringo Tsukimiya: Give up on that. Shiny won’t give up a description just like that. Hurry up and start looking.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes.

Taking a closer look, the other students are all off with a cloud of dust behind them.

Otoya Ittoki: Whatever. I don't really get it, but let's go! Right, Nanami?

Haruka Nanami: Yes!

Otoya Ittoki: One, two, one, two.

Haruka Nanami: Ah!

Me being nervous and this being the first time I'm competing in a three legged race is causing me to nearly fall every time we take a step.

… Ah… I'm such an inconvenience….

Otoya Ittoki: Are you ok? Ah, is it... Am I going too fast?

Select the phrase!

My heart won’t stop pounding. (+20 Love +5 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I'm sorry for not being experienced with this, especially… contact with members of the opposite sex….

Otoya Ittoki: Ah… I see…. Sorry. I put my arm around your shoulders without thinking…

Haruka Nanami: N-No. That's not it. After all, we cannot walk stably without wrapping our arms around each other’s shoulders. It’s true that I'm a little embarrassed…. But it’s not your fault.

Otoya Ittoki: … For some reason, you saying that makes me a little shy too….

We both avert our eyes from each other. Becoming conscious of all this would only make this more heart-pounding.

Otoya Ittoki: But… if this keeps going it’ll be a problem. There’s gotta be a way…Ah, that's it.

Suddenly, Ittoki-kun begins humming a song.

Haruka Nanami: This… this is the song that we're always practicing…

Otoya Ittoki: Yep. I’ll sing it while running and align your steps to the rhythm. Don’t you think it will work out like that?

Haruka Nanami: Yes! I think so! I do!

How strange.... Up until a little while ago, our footsteps didn’t match up at all. Now our feet move as if it were natural. Pleased, I look at Ittoki-kun and he grins at me while singing.

Otoya Ittoki: Whoa, that surprised me…What’s this, a balloon?

Balloons cover the entire surface of the recording room.

Haruka Nanami: Do you… want to search here?

Otoya Ittoki: Hmm… Yeah, I bet there’s a trap around here. There might be something hidden in an unexpected place like this. Nanami, are you okay with balloons?

Haruka Nanami: Ah… yes, I'm fine with them.

Otoya Ittoki: Well then, let’s go take a look.

With that, we enter the balloon-covered recording room. With every step we take, we hear the pop of balloons echoing.

Otoya Ittoki: You okay? If it’s painful, you can cover your ears.

Haruka Nanami: Oh, I’m fine…

Every time we break a balloon, flour, water, loaches, and other substances burst out and the floor grows ever-messier. Cleaning looks like it will be troublesome…

Otoya Ittoki: Whoa, even baby chicks… How in the world did the old man put them into a balloon?

Haruka Nanami: The principal is one amazing person....

Otoya Ittoki: Huh? Ah…. Certainly, he’s amazing, in different meanings of the word…

Pop.

A silver key appears from inside a popped balloon.

Otoya Ittoki: Hm? What's this? A key? But... for what...?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, Ittoki-kun.... Over there.

A small treasure box is hidden in the corner of the room.

Otoya Ittoki: Bingo! Nanami! The Idol's Endorsement must be in there. This was easier than I expected.

We wade through the remaining balloons to pick up the treasure box.

Otoya Ittoki: Well, let’s open it up.

Haruka Nanami: O-Okay…

Inside of this is the Idol's Endorsement… I wonder what it looks like.

Click.

The lock opens. When we open the lid of the treasure box…

Shining Saotome: HA HA HAAA~~! Tooooooo bad for you. This isn't it.

From inside the box, we hear the principal’s voice, and then –

Click.

It sounds like a switch flips.

Rumble rumble!

The left and right walls of the recording room open. And then…A two-meter wide ball comes rolling towards us from the opening.

Otoya Ittoki: Whoooaaaaa!!!! Nanami, I’m sorry!

Haruka Nanami: Huh…?

Ittoki-kun picks me up over his shoulder and begins to run.In an attempt to escape from the ball, we run down the hallway, but the ball continues to gain speed.

Otoya Ittoki: DAMN IIIIT!!! Is this school a trick mansion or something?! In that case…!

Ittoki-kun, speeding up slightly, opens the door to the nearest classroom and jumps in.

Otoya Ittoki: … Ha, ha, ha… I think it kept going… phew….

Ittoki-kun, giving a sigh of relief, slumps against the classroom door, sliding downwards to sit on the ground…. All that is fine but....

Haruka Nanami: Ah…um…

I'm being hugged from behind by Ittoki-kun, and also fell to the ground with him.

Otoya Ittoki: Ah… sorry… But, could we stay like this for a minute?

Haruka Nanami: Eh…?

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, that. Er…. When you sit down holding onto a cushion or a stuffed animal, don't you feel relieved? It makes me feel comfortable… like, it calms me down…?

Oh...I see.

Select the phrase!

…It also makes me calm. (+20 Love +0 Music)

Ha…. Right now, I…! I think I just blurted out something ridiculous….

Otoya Ittoki: Really?! I see. I’m glad.

I feel myself being held more firmly than before. Ittoki-kun's arms... They’re really strong.

Otoya Ittoki: For some reason, I feel really calm now, like this. Nanami, you're really warm and smell nice.

Haruka Nanami: B-But… We were running earlier, so I guess I smell pretty sweaty…

Otoya Ittoki: That's not true. Your shampoo smells so good.

After saying that, Ittoki-kun buries his face in my hair. The top of my head feels ticklish and I'm warm inside.

Thump, thump.

I can hear the sound of Ittoki-kun's heart through my back that's leaning against him.

…

I close my eyes and listen carefully and I begin to hear it…your sound. Many melodies dance across my mind.

Otoya Ittoki: OK! Charge complete! You’re a lifesaver, Nanami.

Haruka Nanami: Ah... I didn't do anything, though…

He is the one who gave me such wonderful sounds.

Otoya Ittoki: We should get going soon. Even if the other guys got ahead of us, we can make good time… Can you stand? Here…

Haruka Nanami: Th… Thank you…

Ittoki-kun takes my hand, helping me stand.

… How kind. I was really lucky to get such a wonderful person as a partner. Really, too good a person for someone like me. I hope to one day be like he is.

Otoya Ittoki: Hm? There's a lot of noise coming from over there. Let's go see.

Haruka Nanami: Okay.

A crowd has gathered farther down the hallway. There, among the group are Shinomiya-san and Hijirikawa-sama.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ah, Oto-kun, Nanami-san.

Masato Hijirikawa: … You're late.

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah. Well, a lot happened. Moving on, why's everyone stopped here?

Masato Hijirikawa: … Beyond here, there's a minefield.

Haruka Nanami: A… minefield?

Meaning, there are explosive devices implanted over there?

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes… Keep watching and you'll understand.

Male Student A: Le-let's go….

Male Student B: Yeah….

Two brave students step onto the sand-covered hallway that has a sign saying “minefield” in front of it.

Click. One of the students steps on a mine. That moment....

Shining Saotome (recording): Bomb number 35! This was when Class A teacher Ringo Tsukimiya was in junior high school. He wrote a hot love song for a girl he liked. I will now read it out looooud. Now, please listen. The title is “Kimi ni Mero Mero.” (I am Madly in Love With You)

Ringo Tsukimiya: NOOOOOOOO!!

Male Student A: The victim for this bomb was Ringo-chan, huh....

Male Student B: This isn't something you can get over in a week. I feel sorry for him. Can't do anything about it, let's go back and try another path.

Masato Hijirikawa: … So, you see the situation.

Natsuki Shinomiya: There are many mines buried in that hallway and each mine holds some sort of past trauma, which no one wants to be revealed to anyone else.

Haruka Nanami: I see…I can see how those are bombs.

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes…. It was a horrible attack.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Earlier, we decided to try it. At that time, Masato-kun….

Masato Hijirikawa: Shinomiya, have a warrior’s compassion.... Please be quiet.

Natsuki Shinomiya: … You’re right. I’ll do that.

I... I'm really interested now. But, it's not something that I can ask… I guess?

Otoya Ittoki: But, with such an incredible trap as this, don't you think the Idol's Endorsement is also there…

Masato Hijrikawa: Yes. That is the most likely possibility. Everyone else has searched the rest of the campus and arrived here.

Otoya Ittoki: In that case, there's only one thing to do.

Ittoki-kun looks confident, with a mischievous smile on his face.

Haruka Nanami: Eh…?

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami! This might be a little tough, but can you work hard with me?

Select the Phrase!

If I'm with Ittoki-kun I can. (+20 Love +0 Music)

Haruka Nanami: I'll do my best.

Otoya Ittoki: I'm glad to hear you say that. I also feel like I can do my best because of you. I mean, the warmth that you give me is really warm. Maybe that was a bit too forward? Aha… haha.

He says that, scratching his cheek with embarrassment. Ittoki-kun is probably trying to cheer me up. I’m happy that he cares.

Otoya Ittoki: Well, let’s go.

We hold onto each other’s shoulders and set foot into the minefield together. This is a long, long hallway that starts from the main school building to the principal’s office. There are many mines buried under the sand that covers the entire floor of the hallway. To think that the principal set up this entire trap from the moment he thought about making this special class just under an hour ago… I’m impressed. But I can't think about that now; I have to concentrate to not step on a mine while we pass through here.

Otoya Ittoki: One, two, three, four.

With a good tempo, we continue at an even pace. We get about halfway through without stepping on a mine.

Otoya Ittoki: Thanks to everyone else taking a chance, there aren't very many left.

Haruka Nanami: Would be nice if we can get through this without stepping on one at this rate.

Otoya Ittoki: Well, nothing’s better than that….

Click.

My foot steps on a mine.

Shining Saotome (Recording): Bomb number 112! A Class's Tomochika Shibuya, is actually….

Ahh! I didn’t just step on a mine, I stepped on Tomo-chan’s mine!

Otoya Ittoki: Nanami! Instead of worrying about not tripping them, rather, step on every single one you see!

Haruka Nanami: Eh?

Though I don’t understand why, I start stepping earnestly on the mines.

Shining Saotome (Recording): Bomb number 44! A Class's Natsuki Shinomiya's glasses are…

Shining Saotome (Recording): Bomb number 95!

Shining Saotome (Recording): Bomb number 70!

With so many mines going off at the same time, it becomes hard to understand what's being said. With that over, Ittoki-kun looks over at me with a smile.

Otoya Ittoki: With all the noise, no one can hear anything clearly! Still, if this isn’t enough, we can sing loud enough to overcome the tape’s volume!!

Oh, I see now…. The mines can't affect you if you can't hear them. Ittoki-kun begins to sing our usual practice songs. I keep moving my feet along to the song. We step on countless mines to get across the minefield, but we're able to get past the field without adding to the list of victims.

Haruka Nanami: …We…. We've arrived.

Otoya Ittoki: Nice work!

Pat.

Ittoki-kun puts his hand on my head.

Otoya Ittoki: Well, we got this far but…

At the other end of the minefield is a small white table, on which a melon bread is placed.

Haruka Nanami: …This is…melon bread… right?

Burned into the top of the very ordinary-looking melon bread are the words "Idol's Endorsement."

Otoya Ittoki: … The Idol's Endorsement is… this…?

Shining Saotome: That's riiiight. That is the Proof of Iiiidols.

Otoya Ittoki: So that means…. So, what do you get out of this melon bread? If I eat it, does that mean I become an idol?

Shining Saotome: Non, non. This is just an ordinary melon breeead. Nooothing special about it.

Otoya Ittoki: So what does that mean? Everything that we did was for no reason?

Shining Saotome: That's not true at aaaall. What it took to get here was wisdom and courage, effort and guts, and luck with time.

Those are all things that an idol needs.

Haruka Nanami: So, you did all of this to teach this to us…

Otoya Ittoki: Ahaha… Well, that's another way to look at it…

Shining Saotome: HA HA HA! That's riiight.

Haruka Nanami: Our principal really is amazing….

Moving, I step forward and....

CLICK.

My foot steps on a switch.

…………………….

Ah, my foot stepped into the minefield….

Shining Saotome (Recording): Bomb number 320! This school's principal, Shining Saotome's real name is actually family name Saotome, given name Mi….

Shining Saotome: NOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! That is TOP SEEEEEEEECRET!

The school principal's voice rings throughout the school.

After that, we return to the classroom.

Otoya Ittoki: In the end, this was all just a whim created by the principal, huh.

Haruka Nanami: So it seems. But… it was fun.

After that, because of the need to clean up from the special class, normal classes are canceled. And, because of the number of traps placed all over the campus, it takes us half the day.

Grumble, grumble....

My stomach makes a small sound.

Haruka Nanami: Ah…

Ohh…how embarrassing.

Otoya Ittoki: Oh, It’s already this late. Ah, that’s right, we have this!

Ittoki-kun takes the Idol's Endorsement melon bread from his bag.

Otoya Ittoki: Since we have it, let's split it and eat.

Haruka Nanami: Okay!

I've been here at Saotome Academy for one month now. Things I would normally not experience have happened to me. From the bottom of my heart, I think that now I’m having the most fun school life that I could have.

Haruka Nanami: Ah~ today was really fun. I need to hurry and write the song before I forget this feeling.

As I'm walking towards the dorms in high spirits, some raindrops fall on me and—all of a sudden—there's a downpour.

Haruka Nanami: Whoa….

I run over under the school building to get some shelter.

Haruka Nanami: A sudden shower? I'll have to wait here for it to let up a little.

... And here I wanted to get back quickly so I could play the piano… When, suddenly,

Cat: Mrow…

I can hear the sounds of a miserable kitten.

Haruka Nanami: Hm? That cry. Ah, I was right, it is the cat from the day of the entrance ceremony.

That day, I helped the kitty down from a high place, but now it's on the school grounds crying and completely soaked.

Haruka Nanami: It's okay. I'm going to help you now.

Keeping hold of the kitty, I make a dash to the dormitory.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… Tomo-chan isn't back yet.

Since animals are prohibited from the dorms, I want to help this little one without Tomo-chan finding out.

Haruka Nanami: … Shower first, since you're covered in mud.

Heading into the bathroom, I carefully wash the kitty. I then wrap it in a towel, trying to help it warm up for the night. By the next morning, the cat is completely healthy.

Early in the morning, in order to not have Tomo-chan find out, I let the kitty back out.

Haruka Nanami: Bye bye. Really, you shouldn’t enter the school.

I say that and send it off, but it keeps turning back to me and crying out of loneliness. Ohh… I feel the guilt.

Select the phrase!

Come back to play sometime. (+0 Love +5 Music)

When I say that, the cat starts purring happily with my statement and jumps on me.

Haruka Nanami: You really shouldn't though. So, do it secretly, okay?

Cat: Meow!

It's almost as if it knows what I'm saying and meows at just the right times.

Haruka Nanami: … Don't get caught by the teachers, okay?

Cat: Meow!

Haruka Nanami: It really does seem like you understand me. Amazing. Oh… right. I should have given you a name. Let's see…. How does Kuppuru sound to you?

Cat: Meow!!

Once I give the kitty its name, it makes the happiest meow I've ever heard.

From then on, Kuppuru sometimes comes by my room to play. Kuppuru almost seems to listen to my stories, so I happily start talking to him. Though I first helped him, now I'm the one being helped. Kuppuru is another precious friend I've met since coming to this school.

Mini Game

Ringo Tsukimiya: Hehe. Today is the day you've all been preparing for, the paper test! Though I say that, this test is not that difficult, so relax. This is just a test on the knowledge that you have obtained from what we have been studying up till now, so as long as you have studied, you should be just fine! Now, answer the questions from the given options. Most of the answers can be found in the dictionary, so you should know all the answers if you've reviewed it. Hehe. Well then, begin the test!

S Rank

Otoya Ittoki: Every one correct… Eh!? How, how in the world were you able to do that? Ah… you must have studied really hard… Well, that's obvious. Hey, can you teach me how to study for next time?

Haruka Nanami: A… Okay. If you're fine with me…

Notes… I’ll put some together that are easy to understand.

The classroom door opens, and the teacher comes in.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Ok. Is everyone here?

Woah... What a beautiful person... Beautiful fingers. Thin legs.

Sheer white skin, moist lips. Her long hair looks very soft.

This gorgeous person will be our homeroom teacher.

Ringo Tsukimiya: From today forward I will be A Class's homeroom teacher. I'm Ringo Tsukimiya. Feel free to call me Ringo-sensei.

She laughs "hehe!" and winks. She looks amazing.

Huh? But, if I recall this school's teachers are all...

Tomochika Shibuya: Woah. It's the real Ringo Tsukimiya! Amazing. No matter how you look at it, he looks like a girl. Sensei, are you really not a girl?

The girl in the seat next to me says this jokingly.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Hahaha. Do I look like one?

Tomochika Shibuya: Yeah. You do, you do. You don't look like a man at all. Hn, I see that your pictures weren't edited.

That's right... The teachers at this school... are all currently active male idols.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Thank you, I'll accept that as a compliment.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Ok then, since this is a brand new class, to start off we'll do some self-introductions. Let's see... might as well start with you.

Ringo Tsukimiya: If you please, Tomochika Shibuya-san.

The teacher points to the girl sitting next to me.

Tomochika Shibuya: M-Me? I thought these things were usually done by seat number. Oh well, it's fine.

Tomochika Shibuya: I'm Tomochika Shibuya, 15 years old. I'm aiming to become an amazing talent that's perfect in both song and performance!

Tomochika Shibuya: I live by the motto "no pain, no gain." My catchphrase is "Bloom, good woman." That's it, looking forward to this year!

Shibuya-san sits down and gives me a bright smile when our eyes meet.

Waaah.... The last time a girl gave me such a smile.... It must have been at least 6 years.... Wow. A good person.... This class is great.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Yes, thank you. So, in the next seat over, you. If you'd be so kind.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes! I'm... Haruka... Nanami. Aspiring composer. Looking forward to working wiffyu—

I messed up.... I had to go and stumble over my words during my introduction.

Otoya Ittoki: Ahaha. Being first to go really is nerve-wracking.

Haruka Nanami: Y-yes. I'm very sorry..

Otoya Ittoki: It's ok. Nobody here minds.

Otoya Ittoki: You're so cute, after all. Try to lift your face and smile!

Otoya Ittoki: Come on, once more.

Select the phrase!

Ringo Tsukimiya: So next will be... you, the one spacing out by the window!

Natsuki Shinomiya: ………

Ringo Tsukimiya: Hello. Natsuki Shinomiya-san. Can’t you hear when the teacher is calling you?

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ah, Sensei. What is it?

Ringo Tsukimiya: What do you mean "What is it?" We're doing self-introductions. Now, stand up and introduce yourself to everyone.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yes~ Ah, I’m Natsuki Shinomiya. 17 years old. My skill is cooking.

Natsuki Shinomiya: I really wanted to have everyone try my cooking, but… I was too busy to make anything yesterday. Sorry.

Natsuki Shinomiya: I’ll make something next time, so please try it then.

Once he finishes, Shinomiya-san smiles and sits down.

Ringo Tsukimiya: He goes at his own pace, huh… It doesn’t matter. Next will be… I’ve decided on you!

With his pointer finger, he points at Hijirikawa-sama.

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes.

Masato Hijirikawa: I’m Masato Hijirikawa... That’s all.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Eh… Ah… That’s all? No special skills or anything of the sort?

Masato Hijirikawa: I play the piano a little…

Ringo Tsukimiya: Ah, is that so. Boys who play the piano are so cool! Let me hear you play something next time.

Masato Hijirikawa: Yes.

Hijirikawa-sama… He’s so stoic.

Ringo Tsukimiya: So, the next person…

And so the teacher calls on different people to do their self-introductions. And then….

Ringo Tsukimiya: Last but not least, the one with the most energy. Let’s hear it!

Otoya Ittoki: Yes! Alright, here I go! I'm Otoya Ittoki, 15 years old. Aries born April 11, my blood type is O. My hobby is singing. Please listen!

Ittoki-kun glances at me, smiles, and begins to sing.

His guitar playing is unsteady, but in contrast, his voice is relaxed and strong.

His bright, energetic voice reflects his kind demeanor.

This is the first time I've ever heard a voice that held such deep love and kindness....

And…. He looks so happy singing…. So there are people who sing like this….

Ringo Tsukimiya: That was so great! Though you still need to work on your technique, you have a very sincere singing voice.

While Sensei praises him, Ittoki-kun gives an embarrassed smile as he sits down.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Now then, since everyone has introduced themselves, I’ll explain a little bit about the school. As everyone here knows, this Saotome Academy was established in order to train idols.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Depending on your grades when you graduate, you may be able to enter Shining Agency.

Ringo Tsukimiya: In addition to idols, this school teaches composers as well. A singer can’t sing without a song. You start with a melody and then add lyrics… Once there is a “song,” a singer can sing it.

Ringo Tsukimiya: To sing… of course, technique is important, but I think the most important part is to have “heart.” Shiny... No, the principal also thinks that way.

Ringo Tsukimiya: When an idol and a composer pair up and work towards the same goal and create a song together, they can surely create something wonderful.

Ringo Tsukimiya: In doing so, the composer must know the idol they are writing for, and the idol must know what feelings the composer put into writing the song.

Ringo Tsukimiya: We have planned to raise outstanding talent that can do more than just compose and sing songs.

Ringo Tsukimiya: For that reason, for this coming year, an idol and composer will team up as pairs and aim to work as professionals.

Ringo Tsukimiya: So, your partner will be decided by lottery! You can’t change your partner, so pull with all you got!

Male Student A: Whaaat!

Otoya Ittoki: Sensei! I have a question.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Ah, what is it, Oto-kun.

Otoya Ittoki: Why are we choosing through a lottery?

Otoya Ittoki: If we’re going to be together for a year, wouldn't it be better to have a partner that you get along well with?

Ringo Tsukimiya: True. One would normally think that way. Ah, you, over there!

The teacher suddenly points his finger at me.

Haruka Nanami: "Huh? Do you mean… me?"

Ringo Tsukimiya: In the world of show business, what do you think is the most important thing to remember?

Select the phrase!

Ringo Tsukimiya: Of course, it’s not all about “luck.” It is naive to believe that you can rise in the ranks just depending on luck without lifting a finger.

Ringo Tsukimiya: But remember. Because this job is easily swayed by luck, there will be good luck and bad luck.

Ringo Tsukimiya: How to deal with that situation is also part of your job. If you can learn to respond flexibly to any situation, the possibility of surviving in this world goes up.

Ringo Tsukimiya: So this is why, whether you will end up getting along with your partner or not, we decided that pairs will be decided by lottery.

Ringo Tsukimiya: This also is another test of luck. Pray that you’ll get a good partner as you pull out the paper.

Everyone pulls their lottery, the aspiring composers pulling from the red box while the aspiring idols pull from the blue box… Here we go…! Number 7….

Otoya Ittoki: Yes! Lucky seven! Who’s the person with number seven?

Eh? Number seven….

Select the phrase!

Ringo Tsukimiya: Everyone, have you found your partners? I’m going to show you around the school, so don’t fall behind.

Being led by the teacher, we're shown many places around the campus. The first place we're shown is of course…

Select the phrase!

Otoya Ittoki: Hey, Nanami. Want to sneak away for a bit?

Haruka Nanami: Eh…?

Otoya Ittoki: Even though the teacher is showing us around, do you want to come explore other places with me while he's not looking? It'll be fun!

Haruka Nanami: It, it might be fun but….

W-will it be ok…?

Otoya Ittoki: Look, he isn’t looking at us right now. Come on, let's go!

Suddenly, Ittoki-kun grabs my hand and, while I'm still confused, begins running...

Otoya Ittoki: We’ve arrived! This is the roof, huh. This feels great!

Otoya Ittoki: Hey, Nanami. Wanna sing?

Haruka Nanami: Sing, right here, right now? What song…?

Otoya Ittoki: Hm… Whatever we like!

Once he says that, Ittoki-kun begins to sing.

The melody and the lyrics are all over the place, but he looks like he's having fun.

I also sing along. Sometimes we sing switching off, but other times I sing together with Ittoki-kun.

The sound and rhythm are totally off, yet for some reason, it's a really enjoyable time.

Otoya Ittoki: Aaah…. That was fun!

As he says that, he drops to the ground and begins looking at the sky.

His hair, wet from sweat, sparkles brilliantly in the sunlight. He truly is suited for the sun.

Haruka Nanami: For me, it was also fun. A lot of fun!

Ittoki-kun, sitting next to me, smiles.

It really was a lot of fun. This is the first time I’ve ever had such a good time.

Our singing was so terrible and yet, I feel like we connected and I feel so happy.

Otoya Ittoki: I see. That’s good. For me, I like to sing this way from time to time. I just get into the moment.

Otoya Ittoki: I feel like singing even over seemingly trivial things like when the sky is pretty or the wind feels nice.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… I know that feeling. When I feel moved by something, I can hear a melody floating through my head.

Haruka Nanami: I write down that melody on paper and make a composition....

Haruka Nanami: Ittoki-kun, you just sing on the spot.

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah. There are times when I feel like I want to just get something off my chest, y’know? I can’t describe it with just words.

Otoya Ittoki: I just suddenly start singing. When I was little, everyone called me the weird kid. But….

Ittoki-kun puts his hand gently on mine.

Otoya Ittoki: You didn’t laugh at me. You sang with me. That’s why…

Otoya Ittoki: I kinda felt like I met somebody like-minded and that made me really happy.

His hand grips mine tightly. Then, Ittoki-kun looks at me with a big smile on his face.

After that, we nonchalantly rejoin the rest of the class without them noticing and tour the rest of the school...

We pass a library, an audio-visual room, the staff room and other places before returning to the classroom.

Ringo Tsukimiya: ... Well then. I think I introduced you to nearly all the places around school. Ah, that’s right.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Everything that you saw today, and whatever you do in this class, I’m afraid you are not allowed to tell anything about it to your family and friends from outside the school.

Female Student: Eh, why not?

Ringo Tsukimiya: We have what’s called "confidentiality" when it comes to content creator jobs.

Ringo Tsukimiya: For an example scenario, if there is a leak about a new CD’s information or a drama’s script before the air date, it would cause a great deal of damage.

Ringo Tsukimiya: That’s why people who are involved in creating content must not leak information to the outside.

Ringo Tsukimiya: All of you here, as singers and entertainers, will be in a variety of productions in the future.

Ringo Tsukimiya: For that reason, I want you to learn how to deal with sensitive information now. Also, there are secrets within the school facilities that must be kept confidential.

Ringo Tsukimiya: And, one more thing. This is the one rule that you must never break. That is….

At that moment, the classroom door flies open.

Shining Saotome: As an idol, romance is AAAAAABSOLUTELY forbidden.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Ah, Shiny!

Shining Saotome: Everyooone. Love is important, BUT romance is an absolute no, no, NO!

Otoya Ittoki: Why is it so bad? You even said that love is important. Yet, romance is banned…?

Shining Saotome: That is….

Otoya Ittoki: That is…?

Shining Saotome: Confidential!

Otoya Ittoki: What?

Shining Saotome: There are many adult matters, and just as many dreams! MOVING ON! Anyway… romance is absolutely forbidden. If you break this rule, you will be expelled. Keep that in miiind.

With that, he had nothing more to say, and the principal left the classroom.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Well, it’s as he said. Having a crush is fine but don’t even try to secretly date each other!

Ringo Tsukimiya: Well then, I hope that was enough of an explanation for you? When you get back to your dorms, please read the school handbook.

Ringo Tsukimiya: Everybody is required to stay in the dorms and we don’t allow moving out. You have to get along with your roommate. Bullying is not allowed!

The Class: Okay~

Ringo Tsukimiya: Then, see you tomorrow!

Tomochika Shibuya: Hey, Haruka. Earlier, you said you were an aspiring composer, right?

Haruka Nanami: Ah, yes.

Tomochika Shibuya: That’s amazing. How do you create a song?

Tomochika Shibuya: I love singing, but I could never write a song, so I have a great respect for composers. And you’re a girl the same age as me.

Tomochika Shibuya: Maybe it’s the difference between the talents we’re born with? Ah, that’s right, what floor of the dorm are you on? Which room?

Haruka Nanami: Ah… Room number 303.

Tomochika Shibuya: Eh? Really!? Hooray! We’re roommates!

Haruka Nanami: Ah… um… nice to meet you. Shibuya… san.

Tomochika Shibuya: Ahaha, you don’t have to be so formal, call me Tomochika!

Haruka Nanami: Ah… Ok… Tomo… chan.

Tomochika Shibuya: "Tomo-chan." I like it. Yeah, let's go with that.

Tomochika Shibuya: Let’s have a good year together!

Otoya Ittoki: What? Whatcha talking about? Let me in!

Tomochika Shibuya: Ok. Ah, you’re Ittoki-kun, right?

Otoya Ittoki: Otoya's fine. I prefer people to call me by my given name.

Tomochika Shibuya: Really? Then I’ll call you that. Right, Haruka?

Haruka Nanami: Eh… Ah….

His given name….

Otoya Ittoki: Can you also call me by my given name?

Ittoki-kun asks me with a smile. I’m sure he’ll be happier if I call him that, but…

Haruka Nanami: Eh… Well… that is….

Otoya Ittoki: You don’t want to?

Haruka Nanami: Um… I’m not saying it’s not possible, it's just….

Haruka Nanami: To suddenly call a boy by his given name is a little embarrassing to me….

Masato Hijirikawa: Ittoki, stop pestering her. Can't you see she's troubled?

Otoya Ittoki: Eh? Ah! I see. My bad, I didn’t realize. Sorry about that.

Haruka Nanami: No… I wasn’t….

Tomochika Shibuya: Woah. That was Masato Hijirikawa. The heir to the Hijirikawa Group. You’re friends with Otoya…?

Masato Hijirikawa: And you are…?

Tomochika Shibuya: Tomochika Shibuya. I introduced myself to the class earlier.

Masato Hijirikawa: Ah, that’s right. Sorry. I don't remember everyone in the class yet.

Tomochika Shibuya: That’s ok, even I haven’t fully memorized everyone in here either. Ah, but I remember Natsuki Shinomiya-kun.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Do you mean me…?

Tomochika Shibuya: Wha- That surprised me. When did you get there? I didn’t notice you at all.

Shinomiya-san is standing right behind us. We didn’t notice him this entire time…

Natsuki Shinomiya: You all looked like you were having fun. Would you mind if I joined you?

Tomochika Shibuya: Nope, not at all. Right, everyone?

Haruka Nanami: … Not at all.

Otoya Ittoki: Of course you can.

Masato Hijirikawa: I don’t really mind either.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Anyway, what were you all talking about?

Tomochika Shibuya: We weren’t talking about anything in particular… I was just asking around if everybody wants to become friends while we have the chance.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ah, that’s a nice thought. Right, Otoya-kun, Masato-kun?

Tomochika Shibuya: Huh? Could it be, the three of you are already friends?

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, kinda. Masa, Natsuki, and I met during the school orientation and got along well.

Tomochika Shibuya: Ah, so that’s how it is. So let us join in as well. That’s fine, right?

Otoya Ittoki: Sounds good to me. What do you two think?

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yes… I give you a warm welcome.

Masato Hijirikawa: … I don’t think “friendship” is something you obtain just by asking for it.

Tomochika Shibuya: Wow, so stiff!

Masato Hijirikawa: … Since you have requested this of me, I will do my best to become friends with you.

Haruka Nanami: Ah… Um…. Is it really fine that a person like me is in this group?

It’s just that everyone here seems really nice. So much so, that I feel out of place.

Otoya Ittoki: What are you saying, Nanami? We’re all friends already, so you can stay here.

Friends… What a nice sound that word gives…

Until now, I couldn’t even make one friend. But suddenly I've easily made four friends. Aaah, I’m so thankful!

Select the phrase!

My school life here has only just begun, but somehow I feel like I can turn a new leaf around these people.

A new me, starting from today. Along with that, I will definitely become a composer. I make my decision on this spring day.

Mini Game

Ringo Tsukimiya: Well then, I'd like to start the private lesson now!

Oh, that’s right. Before we start, I think we should test your sense of rhythm.

Your sense of rhythm comes as a natural thing, of course, but it is something that you can improve on depending on how much effort you put into it. Therefore, don't be discouraged if the result is poor.

From now on, let’s practice more and more to raise your level.

First, I will give an example; after that, I’ll have you try.

Well, go ahead and begin.

S Rank

Otoya Ittoki: Wow, you have a good sense of rhythm! I’m so jealous! I go offbeat so often.

It's the morning after the test and he's taking a look at the scores on the board.

Um… well, I got better just because I kept practicing, so I wasn’t that good from the beginning….

Well… let’s work hard together!

From that day forward, Ittoki-kun and I do rhythm practice together every day.

Haruka Nanami: … I couldn't sleep a wink.

Today is the long-awaited entrance ceremony for Saotome Academy.

The past two days, I’ve only been thinking about things like whether I’ll be able to get along with my classmates, or if I should bring a small gift with me.

Because of all my worries, I haven’t been able to sleep.

Haruka Nanami: ... Ugh. I’m sleepy…. But despite that… I’ll do my best today!

Hayato: Ohayaho~! All of you 10 million HAYATO fans nationwide, how are nya? I’m wishing you all well today from Studio 2!

Hayato: Today’s theme is, you guessed it, ‘final tax return.’ Eh? You've already done yours? Of course…!

Haruka Nanami: Ah… HAYATO-sama. He looks as magnificent as always.

My favorite idol, HAYATO-sama, is a rookie idol who debuted last year.

No matter how harsh his trials are, he never loses his smile. He’s a bright and energetic person, like the brightest star that lights up the night sky.

HAYATO-sama’s show, ‘Ohayaho News,’ is the only show I make sure to watch no matter how busy or sleepy I am.

Once the clock hand ticks to this exact time, I’m always ready in front of the TV!

That’s how it goes every day.

Hayato: … That’s all! Reporter HAYATO, signing off! Everyone, bye-bye nya~!

Haruka Nanami: Alright! I’m fully charged! Let’s go to school!

Oh no… I had no idea a train would be this merciless during rush hour….

People who go to work must be doing their best to overcome this every single day….

Rustle.

Haruka Nanami: ...!!!

Mmh… Just now, it felt like something touched my butt....

Rustle, rustle.

Haruka Nanami: ...!

… I was right. I-is it a molester?

W-what in the world should I do?

???: Can’t you see you're bothering her?! Knock it off, you old geezer!

Haruka Nanami: Ah….

What a nice voice…. Beneath its childlike simplicity, you can feel a core of strength. A straightforward, sincere voice that carries well.

… Actually…. Did this person just... save me...?

Pervert: Tsk, what a brat. I hate goody-two-shoes like you!

???: Ah! Hold up, don’t you run away! … Dammit.

Ah…. The pervert got away. He managed to slip through the crowd… But if he were still here, I would feel uncomfortable....

I’m glad he’s far away now....

???: Are you okay?

Haruka Nanami: Eh…. U-um…. Well… I’m not sure what to say….

M-my words aren’t coming out right. Um, umm….

???: In a situation like this, I think ‘thank you’ would work.

His smile is dazzling. Bright, like the sun….

Haruka Nanami: T-thank you….

Pat. He gently places his hand on my head.

I’ve never been touched like this by anyone other than my father....

His eyes are gentle and warm, like a summer breeze. His smile is just a little mischievous, yet refreshing. Somehow, he looks like the protagonist of a shounen manga....

Otoya Ittoki: I’m Otoya. Otoya Ittoki. Nice to meet ya.

Haruka Nanami: Ah, right. Um, i-it’s n-nice to m....

Pshhh.

Upon arriving at the station, the doors slide open and a horde of people begin to file out.

… However, e-erm…. Um….

Caught in the wave of people, I'm forced off the train….

Otoya Ittoki: Eh? W-wait! Aren’t you wearing a Saotome Academy uniform? You’re not supposed to get off he—

Pshhh.

Ittoki-kun’s words are cut off by the closing train doors. Erm….

Where am I…. This is the station before the Academy’s… isn't it? The next train is… not coming anytime soon!!

I have no choice but to run for it! I prepare myself for the sprint.

Right after passing through the ticket gate, I start running like a racehorse released from its paddock gates.

I run down the street in front of the station, up the hill that makes my heart start pounding, and bolt straight through the residential area.

Then, at that moment....

Cat: Meeeow.

Haruka Nanami: … A cat?

I can hear the pitiful crying of a cat.

Cat: Meeoow. Meeoow.

Haruka Nanami: I can hear you, but….

When I look around, there’s no cat to be seen.

Cat: Meeoow. Meeoow.

Haruka Nanami: Ah!

The cat is crying from the top of a utility pole.

Haruka Nanami: I see, you don’t know how to get down, do you? It’s going to be okay. I’ll catch you, so…. Come, kitty....

I spread my arms wide and show them to the cat. It hesitates for just a moment before jumping off.

Haruka Nanami: What a relief... It seems like there are no injuries.

Cat: Meow!

The cat meows happily in my arms.

Haruka Nanami: Please don’t climb up high places anymore, alright?

After giving the cat my warning, I set it down and start running towards the school once again.

Haruka Nanami: I have to run fast to make up for lost time!

Then, after fifteen more minutes of running, the school finally comes into view.

Haruka Nanami: Haaa… huff… huff… Ah…. H-handkerchief….

I search my pockets for my handkerchief in order to wipe away the sweat flowing from my face like a waterfall, but....

Haruka Nanami: It’s not there!

… I must have dropped it on the train earlier. It was my favorite one, too…. Either way, I've gotta keep going for now.

When I pass through the school gate, other students are still arriving as well.

Haruka Nanami: I-I made it in time....

Lost in my thoughts, I can’t slow down easily....

—Thud.

Haruka Nanami: … Nnh.

I bump into something and fall, but it… relatively... barely hurts. Eh? This soft feeling on my lips...

Haruka Nanami: ...!!!

M-m-my lips are touching those of an unfamiliar boy…. T-this is… my first kiss….

… That aside, what a handsome person....

Long limbs, dark, lustrous hair, and beautiful, white fingers. His eyes look a little austere; they’re very profound and stunning.

I’m in awe. I've never seen anyone this beautiful before.

??? A: … Will you please get up?

Ah!

Haruka Nanami: A-ah, kiss, u-um, m-my first, i-it... was s-soft.

A-aaah. What should I say? At the very least, I have to apologize….

??? B: Y-young Master! Are you injured?!

??? A: There's nothing.

??? B: You commoner! Do you have any idea who you’re talking to?!

Haruka Nanami: Eh…?

??? B: You’re talking to the heir of the Hijirikawa Group—one of the world’s seven financial conglomerates—Masato Hijirikawa-sama! Don’t be haughty! Bow down, bow dooown!

Haruka Nanami: Eh…. O-of course.

I obediently kneel down on the ground and apologize.

Masato Hijirikawa: Jii…. Step down.

Jii: But….

Masato Hijirikawa: There is no problem. Step down.

Jii: Very well! As you wish.

Masato Hijirikawa: ... You’re not injured, are you?

Haruka Nanami: … I’m fine.

I remain kneeling on the ground and nod without raising my head.

Masato Hijirikawa: … Truly?

I-I think so…. In all honesty, I feel too frightened to even raise my face.

Then, Hijirikawa-sama takes my hand and helps me up.

Masato Hijirikawa: … You are injured.

Eh? A-ah…. Now that he mentions it, my knee seems to hurt a little bit….

Masato Hijirikawa: I will treat it....

Haruka Nanami: Eh, um, er….

While I'm unable to say anything out of panic, Hijirikawa-sama pulls off the necktie from his uniform.

He gently places a white handkerchief on the wound and wraps his necktie around it, securing it tightly.

After finishing up his treatment, he stands back up.

Masato Hijirikawa: … What is your name?

Haruka Nanami: … Eh? … Eh, um… I’m… Haruka. Or, well, u-um…. U-um, I’m really sorry!!

I flee the scene, not quite knowing why.

I guess it's because, well.... Because I feel embarrassed.

A-about the k-kiss, that is. Besides that… he went so far as to treat my wound....

I was a little absent-minded until just now…. The moment he asked me for my name and I introduced myself, I suddenly came to my senses….

Then I started feeling so embarrassed that before I knew it, my feet were already moving away….

The venue for the entrance ceremony is simply glorious.

Chairs are lined up in the wide auditorium, and large flowers can be found on either side of the stage.

And for some reason, there's an orchestra class of 120 people on standby in front of the stage.

It’s almost like an opera event could start at any moment. Or perhaps the venue could be compared to the giant stage used for that once popular, nation-beloved comedy show....

As the entrance ceremony begins, the orchestra begins their majestic performance.

The drop curtain parts to both sides of the stage. But….

Haruka Nanami: Huh? There’s no one on stage.

At that moment, the auditorium ceiling starts to split into two and opens up little by little.

Male Student A: W-what is that?

Male Student B: A jet plane? But… why is it in a place like this?

Looking up at the sky, I can see countless jets flying overhead. Then, one of the jets opens its hatch.

The person inside...

???: Haa HA HA HA~~!!

... jumps.

Haruka Nanami: ...!!!

Male Student A: Is he... skydiving?

Male Student B: No! If you look closely, he isn’t carrying a parachute!

He’s right, the skydiver doesn't have a parachute. He appears to have noticed it himself, too....

He reaches his hands towards his back for a moment and then shrugs helplessly.

W... W-what’s going to happen...?

THUD!!

Along with a terribly loud crashing sound, the stage is wrapped in smoke.

Male Student A: Oh man…. He’s dead, right…?

Everyone lowers their eyes out of grief. We all expect a tragedy. But then....

Shining Saotome: Everyone! Congratulations on your admittance. This school’s principal is ME, SHIIINING Saotome, yeah!

Haruka Nanami: ....

As if nothing happened, the school principal begins the ceremony on the stage.

He's styled his hair like horns on either side of his head and wears pitch-black sunglasses.

He has a polka-dot shirt, with a pink necktie under his grey suit. He is clearly a very unique individual.

Shining Saotome: This school was, of course, founded by ME for the sake of discovering and nurturing ‘renowned idols!’

Shining Saotome: Now, applause~!

Clap, clap, clap. While everyone is still in shock, we start to clap.

Shining Saotome: Hm~ OK, OK! It seems like you’re all good kids.

Shining Saotome: As of right now, I will tell you about the Seven Commandments all Saotome Academy students must know. So clear out your ears and listen closelyyy. This is quite sudden, but ME loves songs! SONG IS NUMBER ONE! That’s why…. Even though idols are idols, here at Saotome Academy, becoming an idol singer will be your main goaaal! Before graduation, everyone will perform songs in the graduation audition. Those that pass will immediately get a CD debut! Those songs will also be made by you! That’s what the composer course is for!

Shining Saotome: Idols and composers will team up and aim to become the strongest renowned idols!

The principal is explaining important information, so I know I’m supposed to listen seriously….

But for some reason, my legs start to feel like jelly and I feel dizzy. Come to think of it, I haven’t been sleeping too well these past few days….

I couldn’t get anything down my throat this morning and then ran at full speed for twenty minutes without anything in my stomach….

Then, someone patted my head for the first time…. And it was the first time I k-ki....

Remembering it now makes my heart beat faster. Ah, somehow, my dizziness is....

Shining Saotome: That said, please spend your school life with ‘Purity, Integrityyy, Beautyyy!’

Ah…. The principal’s speech… is over… —Thud.

As soon as the principal finishes his speech, I black out and fall backward.

Haruka Nanami: Mmm….

It… doesn’t hurt. It looks like the person behind me caught me as I collapsed.

???: ... You’re alright. Stay just like that.

Such a gentle voice….

???: … It’s probably anemia. At times like this, it’s a good idea not to move around too much. You can take it easy, please put your weight on me.

He’s holding me firmly from behind. Warm, gentle arms…. For some reason, I’m already feeling a little better.

… Huh? Could this be… a hug from behind…?

Haruka Nanami: … Ah, aah. M-my... my apologies….

???: It’s alright. Please stay like this for just a little longer. When it comes to anemia, you shouldn’t rush things.

As he says that, he gives me a sweet smile. Wire-framed glasses cover his long eyelashes and his curly hair is a color reminiscent of milk tea.

Such sheer white skin…. His features are very delicate and gentle.

And, above all, his kind and warm voice that speaks so politely. Just listening to it gives me soft feelings.

Natsuki Shinomiya: My apologies, I should have said this sooner. My name is Natsuki Shinomiya.

Haruka Nanami: I’m… Haruka Nanami.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Haruka Nanami-san. That’s an adorable name. It suits you very well.

Haruka Nanami: T-That’s….

Natsuki Shinomiya: Nanami-san, please excuse me for a moment.

Haruka Nanami: Eh?

His slim fingers undo the ribbon on my uniform and then begin to undo the buttons on my shirt.

Haruka Nanami: ...!!!

The people around us quickly start shifting uncomfortably. ... But Shinomiya-san isn’t bothered at all and continues to loosen my clothes.

Natsuki Shinomiya: How does… this feel for you? Does it feel any better?

Haruka Nanami: A-ah… um… Well, my-my clothes….

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ah…. Pardon me…. Um…. With cerebral anemia, it is best to increase blood flow by lowering your head. Since you can’t lower your head any further… at the very least, loosening your clothes should help with increasing your blood flow….

Haruka Nanami: Ah…. Thank you….

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ah.... There’s no need to…. You’re very welcome....

When I show him my gratitude, Shinomiya-san’s cheeks flush red.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Well…. Anemia is usually a result of lack of sleep, missing breakfast, or sudden, intense exercise....

Shinomiya-san gives me a gentle smile as he tells me about anemia.

Ah… I meet all those conditions... I’m sorry.

Because of those things, I've become a terrible inconvenience….

Once the opening ceremony has finished, everyone starts heading to their respective classrooms.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Ah, Nanami-san.

Haruka Nanami: Shinomiya-san…. Ah, I wanted to thank you… for earlier.

I bow my head to him gratefully.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Don’t worry about it. As long as you feel better now, that’s what matters the most.

Otoya Ittoki: Huh? You’re from this morning…. Whoa, so we’re in the same class. Were you okay this morning, Nanami? Did you make it to the opening ceremony on time?

Haruka Nanami: Eh? Ittoki… kun....

This morning, he saved me from that molester….

Haruka Nanami: Um… I somehow managed to get here on time. Ah, thank you… for back then.

Huh? But, how does he know my name…? I don’t recall introducing myself….

Otoya Ittoki: Ah, that’s right! Here, you dropped this on the train.

Haruka Nanami: ...!!!

Before my eyes, he holds up the handkerchief that I lost this morning.

Otoya Ittoki: "A Class, Haruka Nanami." It’s kinda unusual to see a name written on a handkerchief. But it’s thanks to that that I got to know your name. Let’s get along this year!

Haruka Nanami: O-of course. Likewise, it's very nice to meet you.

Masato Hijirikawa: Hm? You are… that woman from earlier…. How is your injury? You ought to have consulted the infirmary, just in case….

Haruka Nanami: ...!!!

T-the person from this morning… H-Hijirikawa-sama!!!

I never thought we would meet again. W-what should I do…? I ran away from him without thinking earlier….

Haruka Nanami: Ah, no… I... I-I’m fine…. Well, um, I’ll make sure to wash the handkerchief and tie and return them to you….

Masato Hijirikawa: Please do not stress over it. … I have plenty of spares, so why don’t you keep them?

Haruka Nanami: Eh, ah…. Of course. Thank you….

Otoya Ittoki: Ehh, I see you’ve already met Natsuki and Masa too.

Masato Hijirikawa: Rather than meet… I would say it was more of an accident.

Haruka Nanami: U-um…. Do you all know each other?

Otoya Ittoki: Yeah, we were all together for the school orientation.

Natsuki Shinomiya: Yes, the two of them are wonderful friends.

Otoya Ittoki: That event deepened our friendship a bunch, more than we actually needed.

Masato Hijirikawa: It was a severe trial that I do not wish to dwell on…. However, it was meaningful in terms of friendship.

Otoya Ittoki: That’s for sure…. Well, anyway, let’s be friends this year!

Whoa.... To think that everyone I met this morning is in the same class as me….

Moreover, all of them are friends with each other…. What an amazing coincidence....

Otoya Ittoki-kun. Masato Hijirikawa-sama. Natsuki Shinomiya-san.

All people who allowed me to experience a lot of firsts. This year, I will be in the same class as all three of them….

Just thinking about it makes my heart pound with excitement.

Alright! I’m going to give it my all and become a splendid composer!