[Kotaro Nakayama’s Perspective]
Spring break had come to an end.
In terms of the story, it was terribly boring, but for us, it was peaceful… I feel like we spent a very relaxed time.
After such a vacation, today marks the beginning of our second year.
It’s a perfect timing for the story to be divided and resumed.
“Good morning, Kotaro-kun!”
In the morning, as I got off the bus, a silver-haired girl waved her hand vigorously towards me.
She already stands out because she’s beautiful, but with her funny movements, the attention of the students who were riding the bus together was also drawn to her.
If it were the Shiho I met just before, she might have been nervous and shy at times like this.
However, over time, she has also grown.
“Hey!”
Shiho, who used to be shy, quiet, and expressionless, is no longer there.
Without being conscious of other people’s eyes, she is natural.
Her expression is bright, and just by looking at her, it becomes fun.
Maybe that’s why the students who saw her were all smiling a little.
Although Shiho no longer has her shyness and the image of being aloof… Yet, her glamour that can change the atmosphere just by being there is still alive and well.
That’s what strongly emphasizes her “main heroine” quality.
Still, there are times when I can’t believe that she is right next to me.
Getting close to Shiho is becoming a natural part of everyday life, but it’s not ordinary. It’s an event akin to a miracle that must be appreciated every day.
Let’s pull ourselves together.
To be a “Kotaro Nakayama” worthy of Shiho.
“Good morning, Shiho.”
I return the greeting with a raised hand.
However, she looked at me with a puzzled expression.
“…Oh? Kotaro-kun, are you feeling unwell?”
“Eh? Not really… Is there something strange?”
“It’s not strange… Hmm, it’s complicated.”
What does she want to say?
As I was bewildered by not understanding the situation, Shiho clapped her hands as if she had a realization.
“I got it! Since I don’t understand, I’ll just stop thinking about it.”
“…That’s like not understanding anything.”
“Not understanding that I don’t understand anything.”
Sometimes, I also get confused by Shiho.
There are remarks that imply something, but since the real intention is ultimately unknown… I’ll stop looking for answers.
“There’s no point in thinking about it, so let’s not worry about it… Come on, let’s go? I’ve been waiting for you because there’s going to be a class change announcement today.”
“Oh, I see… It’s impressive that you woke up without staying up late.”
“Hehehe. That’s right, isn’t it? I’m capable when I put my mind to it… I went to bed properly at four yesterday.”
“At four… then you’re someone who can’t do it if you don’t try.”
“I just haven’t put my full effort into it yet. Come on, stop saying weird things and let’s go quickly.”
Saying that, Shiho took my hand and started walking.
It felt like being dragged around by the owner by a dog taking a walk.
Well, Shiho is whimsical, so more like a cat than a dog?
No, she’s lonely, so maybe a rabbit?
…No, that’s not it. Shiho is so cute that I couldn’t compare her to any animal.
Shiho is still “Shiho”.
A lot of things have changed since we met, but… her essence hasn’t changed at all.
