My Youth Romantic Comedy Is Wrong As Expected

Page 789

After trying pour-over coffee, you'll be shocked to discover that what you've been drinking before was actually muddy water, and you might even find that muddy water is actually quite delicious. Okay, preparing filter paper and a grinder is quite troublesome, so cheap muddy water instant coffee is not a bad option... I put on my best to act like a man who can taste the difference, and suddenly spoke up while staring at the paperback Yukinoshita.

"By the way, I've heard that rumor."

Which rumor?

I glanced at her, then closed the book and smiled gently.

"Yuigahama-san and 'the boy from another school'."

"Could you please not describe it like the title of the Harry Potter books?"

"The fact that such rumors are circulating means that your way of getting along is bound to be misunderstood... But I really didn't expect you to be mistaken for a student from another school. That's quite an impressive level of fame."

"yes……"

I'm far too suited to be a spy. I gave a self-deprecating smile and looked out the window, feeling a pang of melancholy. But my behavior at the time was incredibly strange, completely out of step with nature.

"Our situations aren't that different right now... Never mind, there doesn't seem to be anyone we know around here, so there shouldn't be any rumors."

As I spoke, I glanced around the shop. The clientele was predominantly mature and composed, just like before. There were no customers who appeared to be high school students. After checking, I looked away and sat under the snow, blinking frequently.

"Rumors...Me? With you?"

"Yukino Yukinoshita and 'The Boy from Another School'".

I deliberately mimicked her speech, and Yukinoshita laughed out loud, propping her cheek up and staring curiously into my eyes.

"...Others might not know what kind of relationship we have."

Beneath her thick eyelashes, her eyes, looking up at me, glistened with tears, and a faint smile played on her lips as she spoke with a teasing tone. I shrugged.

"A man and a woman chatting in a coffee shop, are they doing MLM or proselytizing?"

Upon hearing my answer, Yukino shrugged helplessly.

"If I had to put it that way, it's more like a con artist and a victim."

"If this were a dating scam, I'd definitely be the victim..."

Yukinoshita confidently placed her hand on her chest, offering her insightful opinion—but this was hardly the gesture a victim would make. Most of the time, con artists appear perfectly legitimate… Besides, no one would be fooled by someone as obviously suspicious as me. People with striking good looks are better suited to be con artists.

It's not just dating stunts or honey traps; direct selling works the same way. Imagine a beautiful woman bombarding me with questions like, "Hachigaya-kun, do you have dreams? Want to become more dazzling and captivating? Actually, I have a multinational business selling imported American groceries. It's a great opportunity to earn passive income, just like receiving royalties. Knowing this information will definitely help you. Want to listen? It's okay to decide after you hear it. I'll explain it to you in detail. When are you free?" I'd also be tempted. Eventually, I'd be dragged along to be introduced to a high-ranking executive and the team leader of the area who happened to be nearby, and then dragged to the winning team's barbecue party on the weekend.

As I was imagining overly specific developments, Yukinoshita made a soft "hmm" sound.

"in love……"

Her voice was so soft it was almost inaudible, and she suddenly turned her head away. A lock of black hair fell gently to her chest. She ran her fingers through her hair, a sigh tinged with confusion.

Oops, I think I said something wrong. This reaction makes me feel bad too. Please don't do that!

"Don't sell me any suspicious teapots. I might accidentally buy one. My dad got a really bad scolding from my mom for that."

I made a quick, rapid-fire joke, and Yukino chuckled softly. We relaxed and picked up our glasses.

I feel like I wasted my time worrying... Why did things get so far off topic...? I sipped my coffee, trying to recall, when it suddenly dawned on me. It was because of that rumor.

"...By the way, what about you? Has that rumor caused any changes in your life?"

"Me? Not many people would even approach our class anyway..."

Indeed, Yukinoshita's international education class, J, was located in the far corner of the classroom, and 90% of the students were girls, creating a unique atmosphere that kept students from other classes away. From this perspective, her situation might be slightly better than Hayama's.

However, it is not without its impact.

"It seems like someone's talking about something behind my back, but there have always been such people, so I can't really judge..."

Yukinoshita placed her hand to her mouth, lost in thought. This statement vaguely hints at her daily life. Has she already gotten used to both the good and the bad...?

Yukino suddenly sighed softly, and said with a touch of nostalgia:

"...However, it's not as serious as before."

The word "formerly" is intriguing.

A past I don't know. Or a past she didn't tell me. A past connected to him.

May I ask? Do I have the right to ask the person involved about things they never mentioned?

While I was lost in thought, Yukinoshita seemed to be thinking about something else as well. Her gaze drifted to the window, and she murmured:

"Never mind me, I'm a little worried about Yui-hama-san..."

"I hope she'll be alright. No one should tell her anything directly, and Miura and Ebina will be keeping an eye on things too."

Yukinoshita glared at me.

"You think you know a lot, but you actually understand nothing."

"Uh, what is that...?"

She quietly closed her eyes.

"These kinds of rumors are usually more than just gossip. When people around you stir up trouble, some will become nosy, and others will attack your character out of jealousy or for fun. I don't know many people, so the impact isn't huge, but..."

Her words carried weight, and her tone conveyed authenticity.

It's not just because Yukino's words are very persuasive; I've also personally witnessed people speaking coldly and sarcastically from the very beginning, so I can understand.

Yukinoshita probably experienced the same thing. Or perhaps that's why she chose to minimize her interactions with others—a form of self-protection.

At first glance, it seems like a negative solution, but I find the clever and calm approach admirable.

Despite having had that experience, Yukino Yukinoshita still did not lose her care for Yui Yuigahama.

"Understood. I will keep it in mind..."

I felt there was a more suitable response, but this is all I can say. I will remember her valuable advice and her noble character.

Upon hearing this, Yukino finally smiled.

"Okay, please remember this. I will try my best to act together with Yuihama-san. Seeing the two of them getting along well should make the others behave a little better... although this is only a temporary solution."

The last sentence she added conveyed a sense of acceptance. In reality, even if she did that, those who can't control their tongues would probably still insist they were faking it. It's utterly absurd.

"That being said, we're not in the same class, so we can't be together all the time. It all depends on how you perform."

"Don't have too high expectations... I'll do my best in everything I can."

Yukino smiled with relief. I told you not to have any expectations… I don’t even know how far I can go.

But I want to do my best.

Because I myself hope that those ridiculous rumors will disappear completely.

× × ×

Just as I was finishing my coffee, which had cooled down, the doorbell rang, announcing that guests had arrived. I turned around and saw Yui and Isshiki walking in together.

"Hi!"

"You've worked hard!"

Yuihama waved enthusiastically, while Isshiki bowed to greet us.

Good afternoon, did you all come together?

Yukino took the things that were placed to the side, quickly tidied them on the table, and casually asked a question.

“Ah—”

Isshiki took off her scarf and coat, exhaled softly, and nodded with a smile.

"Yes."

"Yes, yes, I ran into Iroha just as I was coming in. Isn't that right—?"

Yuihama, who was also taking off her coat, had her hair in a bun. She smiled at Isshiki and sat down next to me. Isshiki nodded in response and sat down next to Yukinoshita.

There were still a few minutes before the meeting time, but everyone had already arrived. Zheben, ever the opportune moment, ran over.

"Ah, it's been a long time—thank you for your help today."

Isshiki immediately stood up and bowed to her. Yuihama was stunned for a moment, then hurriedly nodded in return. Orimoto responded with a smile, waving the hand holding the ordering machine.

"Long time no see~ I'm about to rest, wait for me a little longer. You can order what you want to eat first, I'll give you a huge discount."

"Huh~ Is that okay~"

The female members chatted and ordered their desired desserts and drinks. Amidst the cheerful and friendly atmosphere, I still ordered a mixed coffee… Why didn't they mention a discount when I arrived?

The female members ordered their food with smiles on their faces, and the meals, drinks, and desserts were served one after another.

Before taking a break, we enjoyed a short afternoon tea.

Today's visit is for site inspection, and the food tasting is also included.

"Oh—ah, it's delicious."

"Right? The salad looks pretty fresh too."

"Is it okay to use this as a standard for judgment...?"

The three shared their thoughts while enjoying exquisite cafe food, creating a small, delicious party atmosphere.

Note: This is the nineteenth installment of the Pretty Cure series.

Finally, a huge, luxurious, sweet, and adorable sundae arrived. This sundae served as the perfect finishing touch to the meal!

Note: This is a parody of the transformation line of the character Kasa Amane from the anime "Delicious Party♡Pretty Cure": "I'll be the one to finish off the meal."

I'm so full... I'm completely satisfied, and I'm enjoying my after-dinner coffee.

Hmm...pretty good...I thought the food portions at the cafe would be so small they'd only be enough to feed the birds, but it actually satisfied me. This will definitely get me some compliments from the guys at the celebration party.

"Okay, let's do it here. All that's left is to decide on the budget."

Isshiki nodded in agreement. "I'm glad you're satisfied..."

I felt a huge weight lifted from my shoulders and cleared my throat.

"...There's one more thing."

The way she started the conversation gave me a bad feeling… This is something clients often say when you finish a case and say, “Ugh—this was so tiring!” In most cases, the “other thing” they mention is a case that was so rushed, exhausting, and terrible. I know exactly what she means.

No, no, that's scary... I looked at Isshiki with a heart full of fear.

She sensed my gaze, placed the teacup on the table, straightened her collar, smoothed out the wrinkles in her skirt, combed her bangs, and straightened her back.

"Actually, there's something I'd like to discuss with everyone."

She spoke with an extremely serious expression. However, her collarbone was faintly visible through her neatly adjusted collar, and the way her skirt was lifted made one feel uneasy. Fortunately, she had also tidied her bangs, which amplified the effect of looking up at her from below, making her seem anything but serious.

I almost lost my focus for a moment, but barely managed to regain my composure and reluctantly shifted my gaze away from Isshiki. I won't fall for her trap...

"Don't even think about asking me to do anything for the student council again."

"...I see."

"Iroha," he muttered dejectedly. Then I thought I heard a faint smacking sound. Was I imagining things? Iroha?

Xue Shita, who had been watching silently from the side, suddenly cleared her throat.

"You probably don't really want our help, do you?"

She smiled, yet her words carried a powerful force. Her tone was gentle and calm, but I felt a chill run down my spine. Ishiki immediately sat up straight.

"Of course not! I was just kidding! I'll do my job properly! I've already asked you all for help with the celebration banquet, I'll figure out everything else myself!"

"So, what do you want to discuss with us?"

Seeing Isshiki's attitude, Yukino sighed helplessly and asked her why. Isshiki gently placed her hand on her chin, thinking as she spoke.

"It seems like there are quite a few more people making a move against Hayama-senpai."

"Make a move?"

"To put it bluntly, it's a confession. The person who hasn't confessed can only confirm the truth with him and hint that they are interested in him."

Isshiki answered Yuihama without changing his expression.

This sentence reminded me of what I saw after school. Of course, I didn't tell Yukinoshita and Yuihama about it, so their attention was focused on other things.

"What does 'confirming the truth' mean?"

"Is this considered an implication?"

The two looked puzzled, cleared their throats to adjust their posture, and straightened their backs to face me.