Christmas came and went without a hitch, followed by a peaceful New Year's holiday. And just like that, the two-week winter break was over in a flash.
It wasn't as if I did anything special. The weather was just as cold then as it is now, so I spent most of my time cooped up indoors. The only time I bothered to go out was for the first shrine visit of the year. Other than that, my days consisted of lazing around in cozy comfort.
Thinking back, my lifestyle wasn't all that different from when I was a loner, yet this New Year's was so much fun that I still feel like I haven't had enough of a break. The reason was simple: the person I love was by my side nearly the entire time.
I stifled a yawn as I got out of bed and made my way to the living room. There she was, standing in the kitchen, already dressed in her school uniform and a light blue apron.
"—Ah, morning, Maki. Making myself at home, as usual."
"Morning, Umi. Mom's… already at work, I see."
"Yeah, we pretty much swapped places. Breakfast is almost ready, so go wash your face."
"Breakfast… You made it, Umi?"
"…What's with that look~? I can handle eggs and toast, you know. Although, some parts might still be a little on the dark side."
"If you do it right, there's practically no way for eggs and toast, to get burnt, though…"
Still, I was grateful she was making breakfast for me. Despite my slight apprehension, I decided to trust her. In the meantime, I took care of a few quick chores like the laundry and cleaning the bath.
"School starts today, huh, Maki? …Ah, whoops."
"Yeah. …Hey, Umi, did you just whisper, 'ah, whoops'?"
"Eh? N-No, IDIDN'TSAYTHAT?"
"…Well, whatever you made, Umi, I'll happily eat it."
A faint smell of something burning wafted from the kitchen, making me a little uneasy, but the damage seemed to be minimal. The eggs and toast were both perfectly edible. Umi's cooking skills, once rumored to be capable of turning cookie dough into charcoal (※according to Amami-san), were steadily improving, one step at a time.
The sight of her in an apron, diligently making breakfast for me despite her clumsiness, was incredibly endearing. When I gently wrapped my arms around her from behind, she giggled as if ticklish.
"Fufu, you're so lewd in the morning, Maki~ I thought I spoiled you plenty yesterday, but you still want more?"
"Yesterday was yesterday, today is today. Same for you, right, Umi?"
"Hehe, well, yeah. …But we have school now, so no."
"Aww~"
"None of that 'aww~'. …Fufu."
We flirted whenever we had the chance, not wanting to waste a single moment of the morning. We'd press close and tickle each other's sensitive spots. We'd kiss. Ever since that Christmas night, our flirting when we were alone had become noticeably more intimate.
…Of course, we were both careful to act with moderation, just as we'd promised my mom and Sora-san. I was happy that my relationship with Umi had deepened after the (temporary) proposal, but I understood I couldn't get so carried away that she was my only focus.
Starting today, the third semester begins. That means there's less than three months left of our second year of high school. When spring arrives, we'll finally be third-years—a year where we have to decide our futures, whether it's college, a job, or something else entirely.
If I could, I'd want to hang out with my friends a little longer. I want to spend more time with the person I love, my girlfriend, and make as many memories as possible in the little time we have left. Of course, I feel that way.
But I have a goal—a dream I want to fulfill with the person I've promised my future to. For that, I have to hold back for now and work hard. Personally, I need to score in the top twenty on the final exams to secure a spot in the same college prep class as Umi for our third year.
"Maki, shall we go?"
"Yeah."
We left my house and walked to school, huddled close together as always. I hadn't paid much attention to it before, but with the new year and our third and final year approaching, a sudden sense of loneliness washed over me. We only have a little longer to walk this path. I never felt this way in elementary or middle school; in fact, I was usually relieved to not have to see my classmates again.
…In the past year, I've been blessed with so many wonderful encounters. I had nothing but gratitude for Umi and everyone else.
"~! Ah, Umi, Maki-kun, good morning to you both~!"
"Yo, Maeharas. Haven't seen you since the New Year's shrine visit."
"Don't call us that. …Morning, you two."
"Good morning, Amami-san, Nitta-san."
At the large intersection in front of the school, we met up with the usual friendly duo. It seemed they also spent the New Year's holiday together. Nitta-san had completely taken over the spot by Amami-san's side that used to be Umi's. We haven't even been friends for two years, but the time spent together didn't seem to matter when it comes to going from 'friends' to 'best friends.' As long as we cherish each other, that's all that matters. Just like my relationship with Umi. With the right feeling and opportunity, time becomes what you make of it. Of course, there's also an advantage to slowly understanding each other over a long period, so I guess it depends on the person.
"? Hey, Umi, you're not wearing that thing on your left hand today. That one, it looked so cute on you. Right, Nina-chi?"
"Yeah~ I don't know what happened… or rather, what you two 'did,' but you used to show it off so much."
"Accessories are against school rules, you know. There's a certain Arae-something-or-other who flashes her earrings around without a care, but I follow school rules. Right, Maki?"
"We have to follow the school rules. I'm not wearing it, but I do keep it with me at all times."
I didn't go into embarrassing detail, but when Umi and I both wore our rings in the same spot during our New Year's shrine visit, Amami-san and the others figured it out instantly. They also know we crossed a line on Christmas Eve. And if my friends know, then our families do too. Of course, they were surprised at first, and we got a bit of a scolding from Sora-san and Daichi-san, but our feelings were genuine, so in the end, they understood and are now supporting us. These two are a hopeless couple, so it can't be helped—that's pretty much where everyone landed.
"But in that sense, it's a shame, isn't it? This is your first school trip as fiancés, even if it's temporary. You might manage some free time, but not during the ski training. …I'm in the same group, so I'll be with Maki-kun the whole time."
"…You know, Yuu? If you're looking for a fight, I'll take you on."
"Eek~ Umi-chan is so scary~! Nina-chi, Umi is bullying me~"
"Class rep, she's your partner. Do something."
"Even if you say so…"
This semester, along with the graduation ceremony, one of the biggest school events—the school trip—was just around the corner, and that was the only disappointing part. We were scheduled for a three-day, two-night ski trip to Hokkaido, but according to the itinerary we got from Yamashita-san and Arae-san, who were in charge of planning it:
Day 1… Meet at the airport. Travel, arrive at the hotel, and immediately begin ski training.
Day 2… A full day of ski training.
Day 3… Free time in the morning, fly back in the afternoon, and dismiss at the airport.
That's the rough schedule. We might only get a chance to see each other during the free time on the third day. I knew this would happen when I didn't get into the same class as Umi, but it's still lonely to be apart for two days, even if it's a group activity. It looks like my phone will be more active than usual during the trip.
"Anyway, you and Maki-kun need to have a lot of fun on the third day. Hey Umi, has your group decided where you're going? It'd probably be easier to coordinate, right?"
"Well, if we can. …For now, our group is thinking of eating our way through the market and buying souvenirs. We want to do some sightseeing, but we'll run out of time with just the travel."
"I see, you're right. The ski training is fun, but… if only we had one more day, things would be completely different."
Since it's a school trip, they probably expect us to do that sort of thing on our own for a graduation trip or something.
"Man, ski training, huh… By the way, Yuu-chin and Asanagi, have you ever skied before?"
"Ehehe, I have! Right, Umi?"
"Yeah. At my… no, at Tachibana Girls', we have ski lessons every winter. So, most of the girls can ski. And snowboard, too."
"Whoa, as expected of a fancy girls' school. …And what about you, class rep?"
"I lived in a cold place for half a year because of my dad's job transfer, so I did it in a class at the school I was at then. …Though I fell and got injured, and then we moved again right after."
"So you're pretty much as experienced as me (not at all)."
I'm looking forward to the school trip, but I'm quite anxious about the ski training. Looking back on my childhood memories, skiing is harder than it looks. Once you start sliding down a slope, you can't easily stop. There are ways for beginners to slide down slowly, but if that doesn't work, you have to fall and use your body as a brake. …Thinking about it calmly, skiing is kinda dangerous. I think it would be a much better trip if we just spent all three days exploring Hokkaido instead. However, since it's been decided, I have to try to enjoy it. It's not that I don't want to show Umi a cool side of me, even if it's just a little.
"Don't worry, Maki-kun, it'll be fine! I'll teach you everything so you can ski smoothly. …Ehehe, so sorry, Umi?"
"Alright, I get it. I'll take that fight, so let's step outside."
"We're already outside… Umi, calm down."
"Muu… I'll teach Maki too! I'll join Maki's group just for that!"
"Don't be ridiculous…"
My goal of showing more adult composure was nowhere in sight as Umi, who had completely fallen for Amami-san's teasing, clung to my arm with jealousy on full display. I might be sweating bullets about this even more than the skiing.
With Yamashita-san and the others finalizing the itinerary, our travel schedule, seating, and room assignments were all decided. And so, on the Saturday before the school trip… Umi and I went on a shopping date in town for the first time in a while to prepare.
The main purpose was to buy cold-weather gear and other necessities. Hokkaido is a step or two colder than our city, so we had to prepare as much as we could—gloves, thermal underwear, socks. I would have liked a new jacket, but a good one was out of my budget, so I had to make do. …Just between us, I spent a little too much on the rings. Not that I regret it at all. Of course, right now, the rings we gave each other are on our left ring fingers, shining faintly as if to assert their presence.
"Ah, hey, Maki, what about this? It's thick and looks really warm."
"Moisture-wicking, heat-generating… it feels nice too. Maybe I won't have to layer with this. It's functional, but it's underwear, so no one will see it."
"You get to see more than just my thermal underwear, Maki. You get to see my actual underwear too, you know?"
"Can we not talk about our private life right now…?"
If anything, I know what's under her underwear, but we're talking about skiing, so I'll leave that aside.
"They seem to have a women's version too, so maybe we can just get a few of these? And then socks, gloves, and something to cover the areas that get cold easily."
"That should be it for shopping. …I'd really like to wear something cuter, but we'll be in our uniforms most of the time, and we'll basically be in jerseys at the hotel."
We're allowed some freedom in our clothing only in our hotel rooms. The moment we step out, we have to wear a jersey, so bringing casual clothes would just be extra luggage. If boys and girls could freely visit each other's rooms, there might be a point in dressing up, but the accommodations are separated by floor, with teachers on patrol. We'd get caught immediately. Still, some people would probably try to sneak in, knowing the risks.
"Maki, let's make some time to meet on the first and second nights. We're free to walk around in common areas like the lobby or the souvenir shop."
"Yeah. But if we're in a public place, we can't really act like we usually do."
"Well, about that… we'll just have to be creative and slip past the teachers' watchful eyes."
"You're dead set on being lovey-dovey, aren't you?"
"Well, we're a couple. …Do you not want to, Maki?"
"I do, but."
If anything, I want to more than she thinks. People would probably tell us to just hold it for two days since we're always together, but it's precisely because we're always together that those two days feel so painful and lonely. Since it's a special school trip, I want to spend as much time as possible with Umi. And if possible, I want to spend a long, sweet time in a space just for us.
"…After we're done shopping, it's time for a strategy meeting at your place, Maki."
"Yeah. We can look up the hotel facilities and floor plans online, and the schedule seems to have some holes."
"Oh ho. You're quite the schemer, Maki."
"I could say the same to you, my evil Magistrate."
""…Nihihi.""
We felt a little guilty for exploiting the system's loopholes, but we also know that these little schemes are actually the most exciting part. We'll follow the rules, but within the allowed scope, we'll enjoy what we want to the fullest. In a way, that might be one of the best ways to enjoy a school trip.
"Fufu… We've promised our futures to each other, but we're still the same, aren't we? We're turning eighteen this year, but we're acting like middle schoolers."
"I know, right? But it's fine since we're still seventeen during the trip. It'll probably be barely permissible then. Kids who can't drink or smoke yet."
"Fufu, I feel like I've heard that somewhere before."
"I'm just quoting someone. Can't remember who, though."
"Really? Maybe a flick on the forehead will jog your memory?"
"…I think I'd rather not. I'm pretty sure I'd lose of memories instead."
That night, when we promised our futures to each other. That moment our hearts and bodies connected, and we crossed the line as lovers. We both thought we'd have a slightly more mature relationship, but we're still playing around, just like kids.
…Though, I want to stay like this for just a little longer.
"Maki, I'm so excited."
"Yeah. Let's be sure to have fun together."
I can't wait for the morning of our departure.
With preparations finished and our plans decided, the morning of the trip finally arrived. At six a.m., with a faint trace of night still in the sky, I got out of bed and busied myself with preparations. To avoid rushing, I had already packed my suitcase the day before: clothes, the itinerary, a portable battery, toiletries, motion sickness medicine, my student ID, and some snacks. Umi and I checked each other's things last night, so nothing should be missing.
"Alright, time to get dressed."
I washed my face with cold water to wake myself up and put on the clothes I had prepared while the kettle boiled. Since we're meeting at the airport, Amami-san's father, Hayato-san, is kindly giving us a ride. He's also planning to pick us up on the way back, which I'm very grateful for.
It's the usual five of us—me, Umi, Amami-san, Nitta-san, and Nozomu—but since we'll be acting separately during the trip, the time we can all gather is surprisingly precious.
"…Mom, I'm heading out. I'll have fun on the school trip."
I left some tamagoyaki, miso soup, and salted salmon, along with a note. Three days' worth of side dishes are in the fridge, and instant food is on the shelf for my mom, who was still asleep after a night shift… well, she can handle the rest. I'll be back on the third day, so I can do the laundry then.
"Got everything, check. Mentally prepared, check."
I drank a hot coffee to warm up, slipped on my usual black down jacket, wrapped the beloved scarf Umi gave me tightly around my neck, and set off with my luggage. Today, we're meeting at the Amami's house, so it's my turn to pick Umi up for the first time in a while.
As I walked down the dimly lit road, rolling the suitcase I borrowed from my mom, I heard a bicycle bell from behind.
"Hey, Maki!"
"Nozomu, morning."
"Yo. Mornin'."
With a baseball bag in his basket and a large backpack on is back, Nozomu came up to me. He seemed used to waking up this early for morning practice and was just as energetic as usual… no, even more so.
"Maki, it's finally here. We probably won't be able to hang out, but let's both have fun."
"Yeah. I'll do my best to stay safe."
"That's probably for the best. In your case, if you push yourself too hard, your wife might come flying over in a panic."
"That was over a month ago, you know…"
"Haha, now that you mention it, yeah. Time really flies, huh… It feels like just yesterday we were first-years, and in another six months, we'll be retiring from club activities."
"Six months, huh… Oh, but if you keep winning, you can go a little longer, right? With your skills, Nozomu, I'm sure you can do it."
"Thanks, Maki. Realistically, it's probably tough… but since I'm doing it, I'll stick with it until the end. Baseball, and… of course, other things too."
Other things. I don't know what… or rather, who he's thinking of, but I'm sure he'll be able to do it. No matter how many years pass. So that… the 'object of his affections' will turn to look at him.
"Good luck, Nozomu. I'm rooting for you. …Though I can't help."
"Hey, hey, it's been over a year and you're still saying that? Well, that's the Maki I know."
"Yeah. Let's keep this up, Nozomu."
"You too, Maki."
After lightly bumping our fists, Nozomu headed off towards the Amami's house. He knows I'm going to pick Umi up, so he was probably being considerate. So, although it's only for a short time, I have to make sure to enjoy this moment with my girlfriend.
After parting with Nozomu, I went to the Asanagi's house. I haven't heard from Umi yet, so she's probably not ready. As proof, I can occasionally hear her flustered voice and Sora-san's exasperated sighs from inside. …There are still about five minutes, so I'll wait before ringing the doorbell. With that in mind, I was about to sneak into their garage to wait when I received my first message of the day.
(Asanagi) Maki, you're there, aren't you?
(Maehara) How did you know?
(Asanagi) A girlfriend's intuition.
(Asanagi) Just kidding, Mom saw you.
(Asanagi) I'll be ready soon, so wait in the living room.
(Maehara) Got it.
So, as instructed, I rang the doorbell and was welcomed by a smiling Sora-san. It was warm, and the familiar scent of their household put me at ease.
"Maki-kun, I made some zenzai, so have some. Oh, how many rice cakes do you want?"
[Note: Zenzai (善哉) is a traditional Japanese sweet soup made from simmered adzuki beans, typically served warm with mochi (rice cakes). It is a popular winter comfort food in Japan.]
"Thank you. Just one, please."
"Two it is."
"…Um, if possible, two small ones."
"Fufu, just kidding~"
My stomach was already full, but Sora-san's zenzai is delicious, and I felt bad turning her down, so I gratefully accepted. …Getting along with family is very, very important.
"Here you go."
"Thank you for the food."
I took a sip, and the gentle sweetness and aroma of adzuki beans filled my nose. Combined with the texture of the toasted rice cake, it made me feel very happy.
"Is it good?"
"Yes. To be honest, I was never a big fan of things made with adzuki beans, but I could eat bowl after bowl of yours… well, maybe that's an exaggeration, but it's delicious."
"Oh, you should have told me. But I'm glad you like it."
I remember having this same zenzai during New Year's and eating it as if I'd never disliked it, even asking for seconds with Umi. It was gentle, warm, and comforting.
"—Maki, sorry to keep you waiting. Oh, Mom, I'll have some zenzai too."
"Alright, alright. How many rice cakes?"
"Tw… no, just one small one."
"Alright, alright."
"Don't say it twice!"
"Alri~ght."
"Muu…"
Umi pouted at Sora-san, who had returned to the kitchen with a giggle. It's a sensitive topic, but apparently she's trying to lose the weight she gained over New Year's to get back to her best. She's going to enjoy the school trip while still being careful… these little things are so like her.
"Oh, right. Maki, did you take your motion sickness medicine? Tell me right away if you feel sick, okay?"
"Yeah, I'm being careful… well, I think I forgot my lip balm."
"See? Geez, you're hopeless, Maki… Here, I'll put it on for you. Nn, give me your lips."
Saying that, she took out her own lip balm and neatly moisturized my dry lips. I have my own, but it's the same one she uses, so it doesn't feel weird. It's an indirect kiss, but I don't mind at this point. Because we've done things much more amazing than that.
"…You two are as close as ever."
Sora-san watched us with a half-exasperated look, but she doesn't know everything about our relationship. With Sora-san starting on other chores, we secretly whispered to each other.
"(Maki, are your lips okay? Do I need to… you know, 'check' them?)"
"(Ah… u-uhm. We can do that later, I think.)"
"(Yeah. Well, Mom's here, so it'd be a bit much.)"
"? You two, are you plotting something strange again? Are you sure you're okay?"
"W-We're fine! R-Right, Maki?"
"Y-Yeah. Anyway, it's about time, so we should head to Amami-san's house."
"You're right. Mom, we're leaving."
"Have a good trip. Take care, try not to get injured, and—"
"And?"
"…Oh, it's nothing. You two, have a great time."
"Now I'm curious… Anyway, we're off."
"We're heading out, Sora-san."
"Okay. Maki-kun, take care of Umi for me, okay?"
With Sora-san seeing us off, we left the Asanagi house, holding hands tightly, and headed to Amami-san's. …But before that.
"…Maki, is Mom nearby? Is she peeking at us from the door?"
"I think we're fine… The door is closed, and she probably went back to the living room."
We first headed to Asanagi's garage, we needed to get to Amami-san's house soon, but… we haven't finished 'checking' yet. We hid behind the car, out of sight from the street and the windows.
"Umi, um, do my lips look okay?"
"P-Probably. But just in case, I'll 'check' to see if you missed any spots… okay?"
"Yeah. Please do."
I closed my eyes slightly and puckered my lips towards her. In response, Umi pressed her lips against mine.
"Nn…"
"Nmu…"
We leaned into each other and kissed slowly and deeply for a dozen seconds. We both know we could just touch our lips with our fingers… but we just want to be lovey-dovey whenever we can.
"Phew… So, how was it?"
"It was fine. No dry spots. …Ehehe."
"Alright, let's really go now."
"Yeah. We're cutting it close, so let's run a bit."
With our pre-departure kiss out of the way, the silly couple that we are ran down the road, our hearts soaring. …I felt a strange gaze on my back from the direction of the Asanagi house, but I'll just ignore it. I wonder if crab would be a good souvenir for them.
Though not fully satisfied, we reluctantly pulled apart and dashed to the Amami's house. There was still a little time, but the other three seemed just as eager, as their luggage was already loaded. As we belatedly approached, Hayato-san noticed us and got out.
"Morning, you two. I'll open the back, so put your luggage in."
"Ah, yes. Sorry, Ojisan. We were just spacing out…"
"Haha. The others are just early, so it's fine. …Yuu, everyone's here, so we're leaving soon."
"Ah, okay~!"
When Hayato-san called out, Amami-san and the others, who had been playing with their dog Rocky, came towards us with smirking faces. At this rate, they'll probably tease us to their hearts' content. …Well, it's our fault for being lovey-dovey until the last minute.
"Morning, Umi. And you too, Maki-kun."
"Yo, you lovebirds. Full of energy in the morning."
"We've got skiing this afternoon, are you guys sure you'll be okay going at it so hard from the get-go?"
""…P-Probably.""
We were definitely being lovey-dovey, but we didn't do anything that would drain our energy, so I want to believe we'll be fine.
"During Christmas… well, before we knew it, it was dawn, so even healthy high schoolers would be exhausted after that."
"Ehehe~ maybe I'll get to hear all about it in the car~? Dad, thanks for the ride today and for picking us up."
"Yeah. I'll be waiting, hoping to hear some good stories from all of you."
We decided to save our talk for the car, and the five of us set off for the airport. Nozomu was in the passenger seat, and Umi and I, along with Amami-san and Nitta-san, were in the back rows.
"Ehehe~ this is my first time in Hokkaido, so I'm really excited. Has anyone else been there?"
"You probably know this, Yuu, but of course the Asanagi family hasn't. We rarely even travel domestically… it's been a while since I've even been on a plane. We took a bus in middle school. What about you, Maki?"
"Actually, me too. I've moved a lot, but I don't think I've ever been to Hokkaido. And this is my first time on a plane. We mostly traveled by bullet train."
I heard that when my dad was younger, he had some crazy transfers, but after he got married and I was born, I remember him repeatedly transferring within a specific region while getting promoted. He's busy all year because of his job, so even if we went on a trip, it was at most an overnight stay somewhere nearby. So, despite my life of constant moving, this is my first time on a plane.
"I see~ Oh, then, you can rely on me, the experienced flyer. Maki-kun, if you're nervous, you can hold my hand during takeoff… is what Umi said."
"…Tch. She noticed my glare and tried to play it off. Pretty bad job, though."
"E-Ehehe~… B-But, you just sleep on the plane and you're there when you wake up, so you don't have to worry. It was like that when I went to my grandma's house. Right, Dad?"
"That's… well, I think that's just you, Yuu. Even your mom was waking up every few hours."
"I see. So, in other words, she's not helpful at all. Just that her nerves are made of steel."
"Gueh."
A casual comment from Nozomu to Hayato-san directly hit Amami-san.
"Hey, Seki, haven't you been a little harsh on Yuu-chin lately? Getting payback like that just because she rejected you in our first year is so uncool, y'know~"
"~! You, Nitta…! What are you saying in front of Hayato-san…!"
"…It's okay, I'll pretend I didn't hear that."
The five of us enjoyed our conversation, with the atmosphere occasionally getting tense but generally being cheerful. It's a shame about this trip, but if we ever get the chance, I'd like to travel with just the five of us It'll be tough once we start working, so hopefully soon, like for a graduation trip.
After about an hour of nonstop chatting, we arrived at the airport. We unloaded our luggage and were to gather at our respective meeting points to avoid congestion.
"Alright… then. Me and the baggage carrier are on this flight, so we'll be going."
"Who are you calling a baggage carrier? See you three at the ski resort."
"Yeah! Have a good trip, you two! We'll be right behind you~"
Sent off by a cheerfully waving Amami-san, Nitta-san and Nozomu headed to the departure lobby. We were taking two separate flights, with Nozomu's class 4 and Nitta-san's class 7 on the first, and my and Amami-san's class 10 along with Umi's class 11 on the later one. After that, we'll take a bus to the hotel, so we probably won't see them again until much later. I'll also be separated from Umi, so Amami-san's going to be the only one on my side for now.
A little behind the others, the three of us headed to the departure lobby, where Nakamura-san and her group of friends from class 11, who had already arrived, came towards us.
"—Asanagi-chan, over here~!"
"~! Nakamura-san, and everyone… Maki, Yuu. They're calling me, so I'm going."
"Yeah! But we're on the same flight, so we'll probably see each other inside."
"Fufu, maybe. Oh, and Maki, like I said in the car, if you start to feel sick, don't hesitate to rely on Yuu, okay?"
"Yeah. But… is it really okay?"
"Well, just this once. Honestly, I'd like to take care of you myself, but I can't just barge in another class… Yuu, like I asked yesterday, please take care of Maki for a little while, okay?"
"Leave it to me! I'll protect Maki-kun's health!"
"You don't have to be so dramatic… well, I took my medicine, so I think I'll be fine."
However, this is my first time on a plane, so I'll keep it in mind just in case. It's not good to rely on Amami-san too much even with Umi's permission, and it's uncool anyway. Umi's the only person I'll act like a child and be spoiled by. I've secretly made a vow to myself ever since that incident.
"Maki, see you later."
"Yeah. See you."
After slowly letting go of our tightly held hands and watching Umi join her friends, I immediately thrust my hands into my jacket. …So as not to lose the warmth I had felt from her.
"Jeez… Maki-kun, that's bad manners, y'know~?"
Beside me, Amami-san giggled in exasperation. But her expression looked somewhat lonely.
After completing my first departure check-in and security check, and waiting a short while in front of the crowded boarding gate, it was finally time to board. The airplane seen through the glass is massive. It operates on solid principles, and I've seen it from a distance many times, but it's hard to believe a machine this big can fly with several hundred people on board. …Of course, I'm more excited than anxious.
"Um, my seat is… here."
While comparing my ticket, I went to my assigned seat. I was lucky enough to get a window seat.
"Oh, Maki-kun, you have a window seat. I'm so jealous~…"
"Um… you can have it if you'd like. I don't think they'd be too strict."
"Eh, really? Thanks~! …is what I'd like to say, but I feel like our surprisingly serious neighbor would get mad. glance"
"…You bastard, I'm gonna throw you out that window."
Following Amami-san, Arae-san plopped down in her seat. Since we're supposed to stick with our group, Amami-san and Arae-san naturally sat next to me.
From the window, it's me, Amami-san, Arae-san, then Yamashita-san across the aisle, and finally Ooyama-kun. I have no problem with Amami-san next to me… but if I have to go to the bathroom, I'll have to ask Arae-san to move. …That might be a pain.
"Yo, Maehara, you look like you have something to say."
"Eh? No, not at all…"
"It's okay, Maki-kun. Nagisa-chan was too excited yesterday and didn't get much sleep, so she's a little on edge. Right? Nagisa-chan?"
"…!?"
Arae-san's face turned beet red, and she glared at Yamashita-san, who was probably the one who told Amami-san. However, Yamashita-san just whistled nonchalantly. As expected of someone who gets along so well with Arae-san.
Of course, it's more likely that she's just a tsundere… but the moment I thought that, I felt her sharp gaze on me, so I'll stop my analysis here.
After everyone had boarded, the plane started to move slowly towards the runway. Once the announcements were complete, the plane suddenly picked up speed.
"We're finally taking off, Maki-kun."
"Y-Yeah. I'm a little nervous."
"Oh, I get that. It's like the feeling when a roller coaster is about to start. It's exciting, right?"
"Exciting, huh… Well, you like that kind of thing, Amami-san."
"Yeah! I love high places!"
"…Idiots and something-or-others like high places."
"Hmm~? Nagisa-chan, did you just say something about me?"
"Yeah. Want me to say it again? You idiot."
"Muu~!"
"Um, you two, we're about to take off…"
While somehow managing to calm them down, I felt a rumbling sound from under my seat, and then with a sensation of my body floating, the ground rapidly grew smaller.
"Whoa…"
It was like looking at a miniature model. Densely packed buildings, the topography of the mountains, and the indented coastline. The scenery, exactly as I had seen in my geography textbook, spread out beyond the small window.
"Maki-kun, this is your first time on a plane, right? So, how does it feel?"
"I'm still not used to it… but I don't feel the shaking as much as I thought. And the view is, needless to say, amazing."
By the time the seatbelt sign turned off, our plane had reached a high altitude, and a carpet of white clouds spread out below us. Unlike Amami-san (※and not because I'm an idiot), heights aren't really my thing, but sat this altitude, it's strangely not that scary. …If only I could see this with Umi. The next time I have a chance to travel with her and everyone else, I'll consider going somewhere even further.
"Nfufu, you look so disappointed, Maki-kun. …Did you really want Umi to be sitting next to you?"
"Yeah."
"An immediate answer! Ehehe, I guess I can't win against you… Oh, look at this, the potato chip bag is so puffed up!"
"I don't think even I can win against your ability to change the subject so quickly…"
However, thanks to that, I don't have to be so reserved, so I'm grateful to her for that. Amami-san is trying her best even with the awkwardness of our rejected-and-rejector relationship, so I have to understand her feelings and act as I normally would.
"By the way, Maki-kun, how should I open this? Do I poke it with a toothpick? Nagisa-chan, I'll leave it to you."
"Don't just pass it to me… Yama, you do it."
"Ehh, no way~ Maehara-kun, please do the honors."
"It always comes back to me, huh… Also, Amami-san is the group leader."
I carefully opened the potato chip bag, which looked like it was about to burst, and enjoyed them with the apple juice served on the plane. Junk food is delicious no matter where you eat it, and it's fun to watch the trio of Amami-san, Arae-san, and Yamashita-san chatting happily, but… As expected, I'm worried about Umi.
Unfortunately, from where I'm sitting, I can't see where she is. The seating is by class from the front, so I know she's in the back. Usually, my phone would come in handy, but since we're on a plane, I can't even send messages. Umi is probably having fun with her friends just like us… but. Still, I want to see her face, even for a moment.
"Um, Amami-san. And Arae-san, too, can I have a moment?"
"Huh?"
"Whaddya want?"
"Well… I'd like to go to the restroom."
""…""
I thought I had asked them to move, but they both just stared at me. …Are they telling me to be honest? By the way, I already went before takeoff.
"Alright, I get it… I want to pretend to go to the restroom and see my girlfriend for a bit, so I'd appreciate it if you could move."
Finally satisfied, Amami-san gave me a mischievous smile, and Arae-san sighed in exasperation.
"Nfufu~ that's right, Maki-kun. We're friends, so you have to be honest."
"Don't just lump me in as your friend. I just don't want to bother getting up for this guy, it's not like—"
"Fufu, you're such a tsundere, Nagisa-chan~ So~cute!"
"I'm gonna smack you, bastard."
"Oh? What's this? You wanna go? Nihihi~"
"Um, that's why I said please move…"
Ignoring the two who had started messing around next to me, I squeezed my body out into the aisle and headed for the lavatory at the back of the plane. You're not supposed to leave your seat for any reason other than to use the restroom, so I'm really just going to exchange a word or two with Umi.
As I stood there queueing for the restroom, slowly walking and looking for Umi, someone must have spotted me first, as they waved in my direction.
It was Nakamura-san.
Over here, over here—she mouthed, pointing to the seat next to her.
Suppressing my eagerness, I approached with a face that said "I'm just waiting for the toilet," and there, sitting between Nakamura-san and Hayakawa-san, was Umi, her cheeks slightly flushed.
"Umi."
"…You didn't have to go to all this trouble just to see me."
"Sorry. But I just really wanted to see your face. And we can't use our phones."
"Well, yeah, but… geez, Maki, you idiot."
Being considerate of those around us, Nakamura-san and the rest of the close-knit group of four from Class 11 started teasing us with quiet "oohs" and "aahs." I guess everyone here probably knows about what happened on Christmas. I haven't been actively spreading it around or even hinting at it, but I haven't been desperately trying to hide it from my close friends either.
I'm just glad that I got to see a glimpse of my cute girlfriend looking flustered as everyone teased her.
"Umi, well then, I'll see you later."
"Yeah. See you."
Being on the plane isn't so bad, but communicating with Umi like this is way more fun. I want to get there quickly so I can talk more with Umi, and if possible, mess around more, get some skinship in—the start of our school trip only made those feelings stronger.
Contrary to my initial worries, we had a comfortable flight with no turbulence, and no one got airsick. We, the students on the school trip, finally set foot on the land of Hokkaido, where we would be spending the next three days. The weather was still as pleasantly clear as when we departed, but the snow that had fallen up until the previous day remained. The amount of snow, of course, was incomparable to our hometown.
As we stepped out of the warm, air-conditioned plane, a blast of cold air greeted us, as if to baptize us. It's winter, so it's bound to be cold anywhere, but this place feels like it's on another level, or maybe even two.
How should I put it… it feels like a thin layer of ice is being held close to my skin. It's completely different from the cold in our hometown.
I was once again reminded that I had come to a faraway place.
"Ugh… c-c-cold~! Nagisa-chan, warm me up~"
"Amami, you bastard, stop clinging to me every damn time. And Yama, what the hell are you doing, taking advantage of the chaos?"
"Nagi-chan is warm. Just until we get on the bus, please?"
"…Amami, just get off me for now."
"Aww~"
"Don't you 'aww' me. It's hard to walk with two people clinging to me."
While watching the trio of girls playing oshikura manju from a short distance away, I got off the boarding gate. Since we were no longer on the plane, we could finally use our previously forbidden smartphones.
[Note: Oshikura manju (押しくら饅頭) is a traditional Japanese children's game where players press their backs together and push against each other to stay warm in cold weather. The name loosely translates to "squishing buns," referring to the round, squished shapes the players make as they huddle together.]
(Maehara) Umi, did you get off already?
(Asanagi) Yeah.
(Asanagi) I expected it, but it's really cold, isn't it?
(Asanagi) And it looks like there's a ton of snow.
(Maehara) Yeah. Just what you'd expect from Hokkaido.
(Asanagi) Right?
(Asanagi) Maki, we're taking a bus next, so don't let your guard down.
(Maehara) Yeah. Thanks, Umi. For always worrying about me.
(Asanagi) Well, I am your fian, after all.
(Maehara) ?
(Asanagi) fi
(Asanagi) fiancée
(Asanagi) after all
(Asanagi) even if it's temporary
(Maehara) You don't have to text in such a hurry.
(Asanagi) Because, y'know, thinking about it again is embarrassing.
(Asanagi) …but it makes me happy.
(Maehara) Same here.
It really is fun talking with Umi like this. Thinking that Umi is nearby makes me want to go to her side and be all lovey-dovey… but I have to hold back just a little longer.
Leaving the airport, we next boarded a bus and finally headed to the hotel where we'll be staying tonight. The hotel, which is attached to a ski resort, is about an hour and a half from here, including a stop for lunch and a bathroom break. It's the first day of the school trip, so we still have some leeway, but just thinking about the ski training later is already making me feel exhausted.
Just like on the plane, my classmates remained just as lively on the bus. Watching them out of the corner of my eye, I once again took out my phone from my pocket.
(Maehara) sleepy
(Asanagi) Me too.
(Asanagi) If you're tired from the travel, you can go ahead and sleep. Don't worry about it.
(Maehara) I'd like to do that if I could.
(Asanagi) You really can't sleep?
(Maehara) Yeah.
(Maehara) I know I'm tired, but…
(Maehara) when I close my eyes, my mind just gets strangely clear.
(Asanagi) I know.
(Asanagi) You're the type to worry about things like that, Maki.
(Maehara) Yeah.
(Maehara) I know it's not my classmates' fault, though.
It's partly because it's noisy around me, but I know that's not the direct cause. Simply put, I can't feel at ease. For the past several months since last spring, I've spent every day in the same classroom with these classmates, but that doesn't mean I've become friends with all of them.
People I talk to occasionally in the classroom. People whose faces and names I know, but we hardly ever talk to. People whose faces and names I can't quite match up.
I can only call a handful of people my 'friends' or 'acquaintances' … or rather, the only person I can say that about with confidence is Amami-san. The same goes for when I go to sleep tonight. Can someone like me really sleep soundly and peacefully in a room full of 'strangers'…? At the very least, it would be difficult to get a deep sleep.
The fact that I've been a loner for most of my life, plus the fact that I couldn't participate in past school trips or overnight extracurricular activities due to my father's job transfers and other circumstances, means I'm not used to group lodging, which must be one of the reasons.
…If Umi were next to me, I'd probably be leaning on her and enjoying a graceful nap right about now.
(Asanagi) By the way, where's Yuu? I'm guessing she's next to you as usual, right?
(Maehara) She's leaning on Arae-san next to her, sound asleep.
(Asanagi) Hehe, I knew it.
(Asanagi) But you know, Yuu wasn't always like that.
(Asanagi) On our school trip in elementary school, she couldn't sleep unless she was in the same futon as me.
(Maehara) I see. Come to think of it, Amami-san was like that, wasn't she?
(Asanagi) That's right. Just like you are now, Maki.
"—Oi Amami, I don't care if you nap on your own, but don't cling to me. It's annoying."
"Ngh… Nagisa-chan, wake me up when it's lunch… munya…"
"Jeez, what am I, your damn mother…?"
It's hard to imagine from her current state, using an annoyed-looking Arae-san like a body pillow, but they say Amami-san also had a clingy phase like mine. From there, with Umi's support, she gradually overcame it, and as a result, she changed into the tough girl she is now, able to sleep soundly anywhere, in any situation. I feel like my situation is different from Amami-san's, but if she could do it, then surely I can too… No, even if I can't become exactly like her, I should at least be able to take a short nap.
(Maehara) Umi.
(Maehara) I'll try my best.
(Asanagi) Yeah.
(Asanagi) Do your best.
(Asanagi) And don't try too hard.
(Maehara) I know. If it seems impossible, I'll tell you right away, Umi.
(Asanagi) …Wanna sneak into my room at night?
(Maehara) Not happening.
(Asanagi) Then I'll sneak into yours.
(Maehara) Not letting you.
(Asanagi) Aww~
(Maehara) Don't 'aww' me.
Talking with Umi like this makes me feel a little more at ease and sleepy. There's still about thirty minutes until we get to the lunch spot we're scheduled to stop at. That's plenty of time for a nap.
(Maehara) I'm sleepy, so I'll try to get some sleep.
(Asanagi) Okay. Goodnight, Maki.
(Asanagi) Oh, by the way, can I ask you one thing?
(Maehara) What is it?
(Asanagi) You know…
(Asanagi) Yuu, who's sitting next to you… that's not good enough, right?
(Maehara) Yeah.
(Maehara) I don't think I can if it isn't Umi.
(Asanagi) I see.
(Maehara) Yeah.
(Asanagi) Maki you idiot.
(Maehara) Why am I an idiot now?
(Asanagi) Because you're an idiot, Maki.
(Maehara) That's not an answer.
(Asanagi) Ehehe~
(Maehara) Don't laugh it off.
(Asanagi) Goodnight~
(Maehara) Geez.
Umi stopped replying after that, so I stared blankly at the snowy landscape spreading outside the window and slowly closed my eyelids. On the bus, at least, Amami-san is next to me. Within my not-so-wide circle of friends, she's one of the most trustworthy. It's fun spending time with her. Our conversations are pretty lively too.
…But still, even Amami-san can't compare to the sense of security that Umi gives me.
I took a short nap, had lunch at a service area on the way, and then got back on the bus… After several hours since our early morning departure, we finally arrived at our destination, the hotel. Right next to it is a ski resort, and the slopes visible in the distance are overflowing with many skiers.
Now, we, the students on the school trip, will be joining them… I'm a little worried if we can finish the training safely, without any accidents or injuries.
"Maki-kun, well then, see you later."
"Yeah, see you."
I parted with Amami-san and the other girls, and along with Ooyama-kun, another member of my group, headed to the boys' room. It's a large Japanese-style room, about twenty tatami mats in size, but it feels a bit cramped for fifteen high school boys to be packed into. Just laying out the futons will probably take up the whole room.
I put my luggage near the entrance so I can get to the bathroom quickly if something happens, and claimed my spot first. Due to the location, I'll probably be assigned various tasks like roll call when the teacher comes before bedtime, but on the other hand, I should be able to enter and leave the room relatively unnoticed, so I'll put up with that.
I took my change of clothes out of my bag and was getting ready for the upcoming ski session when…
"—Maehara, a word."
"? What is it?"
After slipping my arms through the thermal underwear I had chosen with Umi on our previous shopping trip and changing into my school-issued jersey, one of my classmates called out to me. It was one of the trio I had mustered up the courage to talk to when we were forming groups. His name was… right, Fukunaga-kun, I think. In my mind, he's categorized as 'someone I occasionally talk to in the classroom.' An acquaintance… I think, but it's hard to call him a friend. It's that kind of an awkward relationship.
"It's gotta be boring being all by yourself over there. We can't act as a group, but we can at least talk while we're in the room. It's a rare opportunity, and there's a lot I wanna ask you."
"Thanks. …But, it's just that being over there is more convenient for me in various ways, I guess."
"…Are you worried about Ooyama perhaps?"
"Well, there's that too. Just a little bit, though."
Only a handful of people in the class (me, Amami-san, Arae-san, Yamashita-san) know that Ooyama-kun was one of the perpetrators of the incident at the sports festival, but since that day, Ooyama-kun has often been isolated within the class. In that regard, I think it's partly his own fault, and I haven't completely forgiven him from the bottom of my heart either. But that doesn't mean I want to actively blame him further. If it goes that far, it would just become bullying.
"Hmm… You're a kind person, Maehara."
"Not really. I'm just with him because we're in the same group."
"I see. Well, you're welcome over here anytime, so come on over if you feel like it. Or rather, please do. There's a lot I want to talk about regarding the girls in our class."
"…Well, I'll think about it."
It's a pretty standard thing to talk about during school trips or overnight school activities. It would never happen in a normal classroom, but I guess the different environment and the unique high spirits of a trip get people excited. I'll never talk about Amami-san's personal life, but I suppose it wouldn't be a problem to talk about other things to some extent. Neither Umi nor I are hiding the fact that we're dating, and it's already well-known within the class.
…Though I'll probably have to hold back quite a bit when talking about my relationship with Umi, so as not to brag too much.
After changing, I regrouped with Amami-san and the others, who also looked ready to go, and we headed off to the main event of this school trip, ski training. We put on the rental ski wear and ski boots that the ski resort had prepared for us in advance, grabbed our preferred skis, and went to the slopes.
"Maki-kun, how is it? What are your thoughts on wearing the ski gear?"
"It's hard to walk in, and it feels restrictive, I guess."
The ski wear for keeping warm is understandable, but the boots feel quite strange after putting them on. They're heavy, and it's really hard to walk. Of course, I understand they're shaped this way for safety.
"Ahaha, you're as honest as ever, Maki-kun~ I get how you feel, but you'll be fine once you get used to it. I can at least teach you how to ski."
"…I'll be in your care, Coach Amami."
"Ehehe, yeah! I'll whip you into shape so you can ski the most difficult course by the last day!"
"Whipping me into shape is fine, but can we at least stick to the beginner's course…"
When she does something, she does it thoroughly. And while she's fundamentally kind, she has a slight spartan streak. Umi and Amami-san are exactly alike in that respect. As expected of best friends.
After struggling with the unfamiliar boots and the freshly fallen powder snow, we had an opening ceremony with the entire grade, and then we split into our respective groups to receive instruction from an instructor. As for the ski groups, we were to receive instruction in groups of fifteen, made up of three randomly selected groups regardless of class… Unfortunately, Umi's group, Nitta-san, and Nozomu seem to have gone elsewhere.
Well, every group is supposed to start with the beginner's course, so we'll probably run into each other at some point.
… I at least want to be able to ski in a straight line on my own by the time I see Umi.
After a brief introduction from our group's instructor, we started with the basics, such as how to use the equipment, how to climb a slope with skis on, and the correct way to fall when you lose your balance while skiing or when you're going faster than you expected.
I'm worried about Umi, but for now, I need to focus on this.
After we got through the basic instructions, we moved on to skiing on a gentle slope that was almost flat. From here, depending on the number of experienced skiers and the group's energy, some groups immediately went to ski the beginner or intermediate courses, taking the lift to the top of the mountain, so we all split up. Amami-san was the only experienced skier in our group, so it seems they decided to take things slowly. Of course, I'm grateful for that too.
"—Maki-kun, don't just stand there, make sure your legs go guu. It's fine for now since it's flat, but as soon as the slope gets a little steep, you'll go gyuun."
"Uhm… y-yes."
Amami-san, who got the instructor's seal of approval to 'help coach,' checked everyone's movements while mainly sticking with me, who was struggling the most, teaching me in an almost one-on-one fashion. Her advice, using words like 'guu' and 'gyuun', appeals to the senses in a different way than Umi's, but I understand what she's trying to say, so even though I'm not doing well, I'm somehow managing to keep up with everyone else.
"Yeah, that's it, just like that. Now, try putting your weight on your right foot. You can go slowly, and it's fine if you stop halfway."
"…L-like, this?"
"Exactly! Now, do the opposite with your left foot."
"…Oh, wow, I'm actually changing direction."
"Amazing, that's perfect, Maki-kun! You'll have no problem with the advanced course now!"
"No, I think that's a bit of an exaggeration…"
'Next this, then that,' she teaches me how to ski without a break, making me actually try it… it's a loop, but she praises me so much every time that it's embarrassing, so I'm able to focus on skiing without my spirits dropping too much. However, I feel really bad about the fact that I'm getting her full attention like a personal coach, and I sometimes feel intense stares from the other members (mainly the guys, of course).
Anyway, since I can now ski on flat ground without any problems, we're going to take the lift to go down the beginner's course from the very top.
A lift.
A ski lift, huh.
...…..
"? Maki-kun, what's wrong?"
"No, I was just thinking that this is actually scarier than skiing."
Everyone seems to be riding it so casually, but I feel like I'm suspended a dozen meters in the air without any solid support like a roller coaster… Am I the only one who thinks that?
"Nfufu, you'll be fine as long as you sit properly. Oh, if you're anxious, want to ride with me? You can hold onto me until we get off, you know?"
"That's… No, I'm fine."
"Muu~"
"Pouting won't work."
If I were scared, I suppose it would be fine to rely on Amami-san, but the lift is surprisingly conspicuous, and I have a bad feeling someone… or rather, Umi might see us, so I'll handle it.
…Or rather, I've been feeling an incredibly intense gaze on my back for a while now. I look around, but I can't see any familiar faces… I think.
I felt like I can hear Umi's low voice from somewhere saying, you cheater, so I put a little distance between myself and Amami-san. Trying my best not to look down, I followed the attendant's instructions, sat down straight on the lift, and headed to the slope that would be the beginner's course.
"...…"
I kept falling silent, but it feels like there's more of an incline than I thought. The numbers might not say so, but looking down from the top, I can't help but feel like it's a good 45-degree angle.
"Amami-san, we're going on ahead. Let's go, Nagi-chan."
"Tch… Don't just push me out of nowhere, you'll scare me."
"Sorry, sorry. But, hey? Nagi-chan, are you scared even though it's just the beginner's course? You were so full of bravado down there."
"Huh? Nah, this is a piece of cake."
Yamashita-san, who was surprisingly quick to pick things up for a beginner, and Arae-san, who fell for her taunt, slid down the snowy field with great momentum as if they were playing tag.
"Maki-kun, let's take our time and go slowly, okay?"
"Y-yeah. I know. …First, make a snowplow, and then slowly, move from side to side."
Muttering what Amami-san had taught me earlier, I mustered up my courage and started skiing down the slope.
"! Whoa, this is fast…"
It's to be expected, but I'm going much faster than before and starting to panic. I put strength into my legs and try to brake somehow, but instead of stopping, my speed gradually increases.
"Maki-kun, don't use your poles now! When you fall, fall backward!"
"Tch… W-whoa!"
Thanks to Amami-san's shout, I was able to instinctively pull back my hands, but with my mind in a panic, it was difficult to maintain my posture calmly afterward.
"Maki-kun, backward! Fall backward. That will stop you."
"Tch… Y-yes."
I fell as I was taught, forcefully slowing myself down with my own body. Fortunately, no one was skiing near me besides Amami-san, and I didn't seem to have hurt myself anywhere in particular, ending up with just a little embarrassment.
"Maki-kun, are you okay? Does it hurt anywhere?"
"Yeah. The ski wear seems sturdy, and I don't have any scrapes or anything—"
Just as I confirmed that nothing was wrong and was about to stand up again. A figure was skiing down towards us from the intermediate course.
"—Maki!"
"! Umi!"
When I squinted, I saw Umi coming towards me with incredible speed. She was probably keeping an eye on me the whole time, using Amami-san's blonde hair as a landmark. By the way, the intermediate and advanced courses start at different places, but after skiing a certain distance, all three courses merge.
"Jeez, Maki, you're a beginner, you shouldn't push yourself like that… Oh, look, your cheek is a little red. Let me see."
"Eh? Ah, y-yeah…"
I don't remember falling that spectacularly, but Umi is a natural worrier, so she probably couldn't just stand by and watch.
"Umi, I know you're worried about Maki-kun, but what about your group? Look, Nakamura-san and the others are watching over there."
"…That's fine. They'll probably just tease me relentlessly later."
I can't see the expressions of Nakamura-san and the other four huddled at the edge of the course, but I'm sure they're watching Umi with smirks on their faces.
"So, I'll be the one to watch Maki's skiing, so Yuu, you go have fun with the others. You'll be able to ski more freely that way, right?"
"Aww, it's not fair that it's just you and Maki-kun~ It's no fun skiing alone, so I'll teach Maki-kun with you. Umi, shouldn't you go back to your own group?"
"…Are you trying to get a head start?"
"I wouldn't do that~ …I just thought this would be a good chance for Maki-kun to rely on me a little more."
"…No."
"Aww~"
"Don't 'aww' me."
"Um… you two, you're going to start bothering people soon…"
Somehow I managed to mediate between the two who were arguing over who would coach me… I don't know why I'm doing this, but anyway, I pulled myself together and quickly skied down to join the group that had gone ahead.
Maybe because I was worried about the two pouting like children, my tension was relieved, and after that, I was able to ski smoothly without falling again. Even though it was the beginner's course, I'd say I did pretty well for my first time. While I was getting the hang of skiing and feeling the fear I had felt until then gradually fade away, as for my girlfriend and her best friend.
"—Fine, if you're going to say that, then let's have a match on the advanced course right now. Whoever finishes first gets to be Maki's coach from now on."
"I like it, Umi! I'm in!"
"…You two, that's enough!"
I scolded the two of them for getting carried away using me as an excuse, and later, after a discussion, we decided to divide the coaching time equally. It was decided that Amami-san would coach me today, Umi in the morning of the second day, and Amami-san in the afternoon… but even though they just made up the other day, it feels like they've been getting into more small fights, or rather, squabbles recently.
Well, maybe this is the new form of their relationship.
"Yuu, I'm not going to lose, you know."
"Same here, Umi!"
One way or another, they both look like they're having fun.
After the two-hour ski training on the first day, it was evening. Finally, it was time to take a breather. Apparently, there's some kind of extracurricular class tomorrow from the evening onwards, but for the first day, considering our fatigue from the early morning travel, we were allowed a certain amount of freedom until the general bedtime, excluding dinner and bathing time.
There's about an hour until dinner—of course, what I would do with that time is… maybe she was thinking the same thing, because just as I picked up my phone, a message came in.
(Asanagi) Maki, aren't you coming to my room?
(Maehara) No, no, boys are forbidden from going to the girls' floor.
(Maehara) And vice versa, of course.
(Asanagi) Yeah, I know. It's a shame.
(Asanagi) Yuu and Nina are in my room right now, and we're playing cards with Nakamura-san and the usual.
(Maehara) sounds like fun
(Asanagi) You should come too, Maki.
(Asanagi) It'll be 7 girls to 1 boy, though.
(Maehara) what's with that gender ratio
(Asanagi) Hehe, it's a harem, isn't it?
(Asanagi) maki you cheater~
(Maehara) I only have eyes for you, Umi.
(Asanagi) i know~
While my classmates were making a racket in the large room, I was my usual self here too. After all, talking with Umi like this is what makes me happiest. I'm trying my best to act calm so as not to arouse suspicion from those around me, but Umi's instant replies make me so happy that I can't help but grin. I even started to think that this is all I need for today.
(Asanagi) maki-ku~n
(Asanagi) class pre~z
(Asanagi) maehara-shi~
(Maehara) Is that Amami-san and Nitta-san… and Nakamura-san?
(Maehara) Not that they're speaking, though.
(Asanagi) Sorry, Maki.
(Asanagi) I just got my phone back.
(Maehara) Since everyone is over there, should we switch to the group chat?
(Asanagi) Yeah, you're right. Well, can't be helped.
Since it was confusing who was saying what, we decided to move our chat to a private five-person chat room for the time being. If we talk here, Nozomu will probably notice and join in.
(N) Hoho, I see.
(N) So this is your little love nest, eh?
(Maehara) I feel like someone said that before.
(Asanagi) Nakamura-san, what are you saying the moment you got invited?
(Amami) Umi, are we doing this whole routine again?
(Nina) Are we interrupting something?
(Asanagi) No, we don't need any of that.
(Maehara) I'm just glad everyone seems to be having fun.
(Seki) Looks like there's someone new I don't know.
(Nina) Huh? And who are you again?
(Seki) Nitta, you need to knock it off.
(N) Hello, Seki-kun. Is the president doing well?
(Seki) You mean my sister?
(Seki) Yeah, so much so that it's annoying.
(Maehara) So, I take it her exams are going well?
(Seki) Hmm, I haven't asked her directly, but probably.
(Seki) The results aren't out yet, but she said the entrance exam she took the other day was no problem.
(Seki) The entrance exam for her first choice, K university, is at the end of the month, so she's still working hard.
(Asanagi) So that means she might become our senior, Maki's and mine.
(Asanagi) Maki, let's do our best together, okay?
(Maehara) Y-yes.
(N) Hmm, K University, huh… My first choice is T University, but it's local, so that might be an option too. The difficulty level is just right.
(Asanagi) You're the only one in our high school who can say that, Nakamura-san.
(Amami) Nina-chi, shall we continue our card game?
(Nina) Yup.
(Asanagi) You two, stop escaping reality.
(Maehara) Well, I can understand how you feel.
Conversations naturally turn to exams and our futures this time of year. Emotionally, I want to stay a high school student for a while longer and just have fun. I get that. But time relentlessly presses on, so we have to start preparing for it, little by little. Even while we're talking like this. Even if it looks like we're joking around and escaping reality. Surprisingly, everyone is thinking about it in the back of their minds. Everyone knew it. That we can't stay 'kids' forever.
An hour passed in a flash, and after that, it was dinner with the entire grade. I thought so during lunch too, but seeing everyone lined up like this is quite a magnificent sight. Today's main dish, being in Hokkaido, is Genghis Khan. It might be a classic, but I don't get many opportunities to eat it in my daily life, so I'm actually looking forward to it. Also, for dinner, the seating is only broadly divided by class, so Umi and I both took seats at the border between our classes so we could be next to each other. We're in different classes, but we're neighbors, so in times like these, I'm going to take every chance I get.
[Note: Genghis Khan (ジンギスカン, Jingisukan) is a Japanese grilled mutton/lamb dish cooked on a domed metal grill, strongly associated with Hokkaido where it is considered the region's signature dish. The name is said to derive from the image of Mongol warriors cooking meat on their helmets over fire, though this is likely more legend than history.]
"Maki, the meat looks like it's cooked. Let's eat."
"Yeah. It looks really delicious."
I take a bite of the meat sizzling on the iron plate over the solid fuel, along with some vegetables.
…I can taste a faint, unique flavor that's different from beef, pork, or chicken, but thanks to being well-marinated in the sauce, it tastes very delicious.
Well, I tend to like unique flavors anyway, so there wasn't much for me to dislike.
"It's delicious, isn't it, Maki?"
"Yeah. Maybe we could try making this at home sometimes when we get back."
"It's got lots of vegetables too. Maybe I'll talk to Mom about it later."
I thoroughly enjoyed the main dish as well as the seafood like salmon roe and sea urchin, spending a brief moment in our own little world… or I'd like to, but what's really bothering me are the onlookers sending us lukewarm gazes.
"...…"
"...…"
"Uhm… Amami-san, Nakamura-san?"
"What's wrong? You've been smirking at us this whole time."
"Well… right, Nakamura-san?"
"Right, Amami-chan."
""Aren't you two going to feed each other soon?""
""N-no, we won't!""
There's no way we can be that lovey-dovey with this many people around… No, maybe because there are so many people, it would be less noticeable if we did… the thought crossed my mind for a moment, but it would be bad if these two were constantly monitoring us. If it were a situation where we could do it secretly without anyone noticing, we probably would have fed each other more than half of the Genghis Khan on the iron plate. A little while ago, it was just a bite or two, but since the end-of-year and New Year holidays… no, to be precise, since Christmas, when we're eating together, once we get going, our stupid-couple level becomes dangerously high.
In that sense, you could say that Amami-san and Nakamura-san are acting as our breaks… well, I guess you could put it that way.
"W-well what about you, Nakamura-san, and Takizawa-kun? You wouldn't tell me anything when I asked about Christmas."
"Hmm, even if you say that, there wasn't really anything I could tell everyone about. We just exchanged presents normally, well, we ate some cake, and spent the time reading a novel together… see, it was pretty normal for us, right?"
"…Is that, actually true?"
"! W-what is it, Maehara-shi… If you're trying to get back at me, that won't work."
"Get back at you, I wouldn't… It's just a little different from what I heard."
"!? Th-that Souji, don't tell me…!"
"Yes. Well, something like that."
Nakamura-san seemed to think she could play dumb, but that's not going to happen. The conversation I had with Takizawa-kun when he came to me for advice a while ago is still on my phone.
(Takizawa) Maehara-senpai, I have something I'd like to discuss with you.
(Maehara) With me?
(Takizawa) Yes. It's… about Mio-senpai.
(Maehara) Nakamura-san? Don't tell me you two had a fight or something?
(Takizawa) We're on good terms as always. But…
(Maehara) But?
(Takizawa) Recently, we haven't been able to do many couple-like things.
"Whoa~! No, no! That's enough, please forgive me, I'm begging you!"
This was just a small part of it, but it seems it was enough to break Nakamura-san's composure. It's a little unfair for her to tease us and get away with nothing herself. So, I'll have her understand how we feel, just a little.
"Maki, is it okay for me to see that?"
"Sure. Takizawa-kun said he wanted to hear your thoughts too, Umi."
"…You hear that, Nakamura-san?"
"Muu… What did I even do…"
With Nakamura-san blushing and looking down, I quickly showed Umi the series of messages. Besides messaging, we also called each other, but to summarize Takizawa-kun's worries very simply,
[Q. I want to get closer to Mio-senpai (※i.e., be more lovey-dovey), but she won't really let me. Including setting the mood, how can I do it well?]
It was a very innocent question.
"I see… So, Nakamura-san?"
"…Yes."
"I'm sorry to ask you so many times, but you do like Takizawa-kun, right?"
"…Yes. I see him as a man, very much so."
"You have a way with words… Well, anyway, don't you think you could let him be a little clingy sometimes? It's easy to forget because Takizawa-kun has a very mature vibe, but he's younger than us. He's our junior. Our junior. Do you get it?"
"I-I get it, of course. …I get it, but when it comes down to it, I get nervous too…"
"It's only embarrassing at first. If you keep at it, you'll get used to it."
"I don't think you can compare my situation with yours, Asanagi-chan…"
"Don't mutter under your breath!"
"Yes ma'am…"
On my own, all I could do was cheer up Takizawa-kun, but I hope this helps to clear up his worries even a little. Nakamura-san dejectedly listening to the lecture, and Umi giving advice as a senior in love (sort of)… I guess this is also something unique to a school trip.
"I'm so jealous of you two. I'd like to join in the conversation, but I was just unceremoniously rejected… right, Maki-kun?"
"No, I don't think having relationship experience is that important for giving advice… Anyway, I'm sorry about that."
"Hehe, I'm just kidding. I'm fine now, really. Oh, by the way, Maki-kun, do you want a refill of rice? A large serving? An extra-large? Or a mega serving?"
"Why does it start with large… Well then, a regular serving, please."
"Got it. A serving of love it is!"
"This person is determined to make me eat a mountain of rice no matter what…"
"Ehehe~"
Ever since that incident, not only has the relationship between Umi and Amami-san changed, but of course, the way Amami-san interacts with me has also been gradually changing. She adds a little bit of sass to our usual conversations, is a bit more blunt, or teases me annoyingly like she does with Arae-san. Not as a 'friend of a friend' or 'my best friend's boyfriend,' but as a proper 'friend,' just like Nitta-san and Arae-san. But we're still a bit reserved around each other, and it will probably take more time.
"Here you go, Maki-kun. Your refill."
"Thanks. …Wow, it really is a large serving."
"It's a serving of love. Oh, of course, there's no weird meaning behind it, so don't worry. Right, Umi?"
"…Maki, after you eat that, I'll get you a refill."
"My stomach is going to burst, so please spare me…"
However, no matter how much we're 'friends,' if we misjudge the distance, things could get complicated like before, so I want to be careful to properly gauge that line. No matter what Amami-san does, the most important person to me is Umi, and only Umi. I hope to continue showing that through my words and actions.