CH 10.1

Remember when Akina mentioned that she wanted to introduce Yuki to her friend from elementary school?

Well, after the seat change, she and I continued to have a rather good friendship. She would lend me her notes, and her textbooks, and even ask me if there was something I didn’t understand in class. I’m very indebted to her.

Then, one day she asked me if I’d be free this Sunday to introduce Yuki to her friend.

I was frankly optimistic since when I told Yuki about it, she replied saying she’d love to meet Akina’s friend. After relaying that message back to Akina, she told me she was really happy to hear it. I guess she really cared about her friend.

That friend goes to the same school as us, but we agreed to meet somewhere else. She told Akina that she wanted to be introduced to Yuki dressing properly in her casual clothing. Therefore, we all decided to go out today.

It was the first time Yuki was introduced to somebody like this, and she seemed fidgety since morning. After getting ready, we went to the station and station one of the benches, waiting for Akina and her friend to come.

“H–Haru-kun… What do you think of my outfit today? Is, is it weird?”

Her outfit had a mature feel to it. It was a black off-the-shoulder dress with a loose, large silhouette. The wide-necked top, open not only to her shoulders but to her chest, accentuated her snow-pale skin. She also wore denim shorts that bedazzled her soft thighs.

She looked down at herself anxiously, fidgeting and playing with her fingers. But well, she doesn’t have anything to worry about. People passed by and invariably glanced at her, admiring her figure. She may not realize it, but she’s more beautiful than anyone else present at this station.

“It’s not weird. In fact, I think you look incredibly cute.”

When I gave my honest opinion, Yuki looked down embarrassed and a bit twitchy, as if both happy and embarrassed by the compliment.

“I–I’m glad to hear you say so, Haru-kun… It’s the first time I’ve been introduced to someone, so I’m very anxious today…”

“It’s okay, it’s okay. Akina’s friend knows you and she wants to be your friend.”

“No, well, you see… I’m worried people will think I’m different from the image I have at school.”

“Your image, huh…”

Yuki was an angel to the school, or maybe some sort of goddess. So much so that some people said she was too precious to be looked at. She was praised left and right for being smart, athletic, and having a wonderful personality.

And by knowing her well, I wholeheartedly believe that image isn’t wrong. It’s obvious she looked like an angel, and she is smart, evidenced by her perfect scores in all subjects. Her athletic performance didn’t lag behind at all, either, as shown back in the volleyball tournament. I can also vouch for her character. She’s truly kind, caring, and an overall great girl.

Even so, she was still a bit withdrawn socially, perhaps due to the effects of her bandaged childhood. Well, compared to when I first met her, she’s become much more self-confident, even if she still has yet to completely get over her shyness.

“Yuki, you’ll be fine, don’t worry about it. I think it’s fine just to be yourself. If she wants to be your friend, being overly conscious may have the opposite effect.”

“It’s fine… To be myself? I see… I’m happy you told me this, Haru-kun. Thank you.”

“You two will get along easily, just like we do. I hope you make a lot of friends from here on out, Yuki.”

“Yes, I’m looking forward to it!” She answered with a warm smile.

To be honest, I’m half-excited, half-anxious, though I’m sure she’ll be able to pull it off. I have nothing to worry about, and just being able to watch over her like this is enough to make me happy.

Sitting on one of the benches of the station, we both took our time while waiting for Akina and her friend to arrive.