Chapter 86 - 86: Forgiven, for Now

"What will you do next, Utaha-senpai?" Since Kato's friends hadn't arrived yet, and Utaha seemed to have taken quite the hit, she decided to shift the topic—at least to help the other girl regain some composure. "I should probably go home and study… No, I must study!" Halfway through her sentence, Utaha suddenly firmed her resolve, her voice carrying a trace of gritted determination. Kato blinked. "Even during the holidays? As expected of Senpai." But Utaha didn't smile. Instead, she held her head in her hands and slowly leaned forward, pressing her chest against the table. "I just realized how big the gap between me and Yukinoshita really is." Recalling the scene where she was so effortlessly outplayed, her cheeks burned with humiliation. Her pride had taken a serious blow. Even now, it still felt surreal. I'm older than her by a year—I should have more experience. So why is the gap between us so huge? Then, it hit her—what Yukinoshita had mentioned earlier. "My sister." Could that be the reason? At that moment, Kato's voice pulled her back. "Have you ever considered that Yukinoshita is so exceptional because she's always had Amamiya-kun by her side?" Utaha froze. Seeing that she had her attention, Kato continued, "Amamiya-kun is eloquent, always polite and generous to everyone. He's been with Yukinoshita since they were kids. If you think she never learned from him, that would be impossible." Utaha frowned slightly, scrutinizing the girl across from her. "Eloquent? Polite to everyone? …That sounds like you." Kato let out a small "Eh?" before blinking in surprise. "Wow, Senpai, you think that highly of me?" Utaha wasn't sure how to respond. She thought back to Kato's words and behavior. Now that she really considered it… There was something about her. She had that same enigmatic presence as a mysterious NPC in a game—the kind where, until their mask was pulled away, you'd never know whether they were an ally or a villain. Under Utaha's scrutinizing gaze, Kato remained unfazed. As if to say, If I ever lose my composure for even a second, then I wouldn't be Kato Megumi. "You're right. Yukinoshita grew up with Haru, and she also had an older sister who was probably just as exceptional," Utaha admitted, steering the conversation back. Kato nodded. That was exactly her point. Though they hadn't interacted much with Yukinoshita's older sister, both of them had a feeling—if Yukinoshita was this strong, then her sister must be even more formidable. In a cultivation novel, Yukinoshita would already be at the Half-Step Grandmaster level. Utaha let out a deep sigh. "This is tough…" It was hard to tell whether she was lamenting her gap with Yukinoshita or worrying about her own future. Yukinoshita's presence today had been unshakable. Not a single crack in her composure. Utaha had seen it—her words had angered Yukinoshita. The plan had worked. And yet… Yukinoshita had forced herself to regain control. She had suppressed her emotions through sheer rationality, restoring her usual unflappable aura. That was something Utaha simply couldn't do. Kato lowered her gaze slightly, observing the girl in front of her through the corner of her eyes. She really hadn't eavesdropped on the conversation. But when she passed by earlier, she had overheard a few words. And from those alone, she had made a new discovery— Utaha was now involved with Amamiya-kun. Her eyes flickered for a brief moment. She should probably thank her Senpai. After all, Utaha had just proven something very important— That winning over Amamiya-kun with sincerity was possible. Utaha remained oblivious to Kato's thoughts. Meanwhile— After leaving the café, Yukinoshita headed straight home. The entire way, she replayed her conversation with Utaha in her mind. "…She really went that far for Haru. I underestimated her." Her expression was calm, but deep down, a flicker of irritation remained. She wouldn't deny it—Utaha's plan had worked. Because she was angry. And she could imagine it now—how Utaha must have felt when Haru rejected her again and again. How frustrated, how unwilling she must have been to accept it. The thought made her mood even worse. She needed to pet a cat. So, she changed course and headed straight for Haru's place. When she rang the doorbell, it didn't take long before the door opened, revealing a surprised Haru. "You? What are you doing here?" "I wanted to see him." She looked past him toward the plump orange cat slowly making its way over. "Then come in. I'm in the middle of cooking, so I won't entertain you," he said casually. "Mm." Yukino changed into indoor slippers and immediately went over to scoop up the fat cat. "Meow." Recognizing her scent, the cat settled comfortably in her arms without resistance. Haru returned to the kitchen. [You are currently cooking. (Cooking) proficiency +73.] [Your (Cooking) skill has leveled up! Current level: Lv.7] Yukino walked over to the kitchen doorway, her nose catching the rich aroma in the air. Smells good. Not too much chili, either. Glancing into the pan, she asked, "What are you making?" "Tilapia. Just a little chili," Haru replied, expertly flipping the fish onto a plate. "And what else?" "Sweet and sour pork ribs, beef and potatoes, stir-fried cabbage. Just one more soup left." "That much?" "I know you don't eat a lot, but I do." She watched him move around the kitchen, then hesitated for a moment before finally setting the cat down. "Meow~" The orange cat, clearly drawn by the delicious scent, attempted to scurry into the kitchen. Yukino bent down and pressed a hand on its head. "You can't go in there." Then, she looked up at Haru's back. "…Give me an apron." Haru turned around, raising an eyebrow. "You're joining in?" Yukino's tone was calm. "Didn't you say before that you wanted me to guide you in cooking?" "With the esteemed Miss Yukinoshita personally guiding me, it's truly an honor… Hey, fat cat, get out. There's no place for you here." Watching as Haru picked up the lazy orange cat and set it outside, then handed her an apron, Yukino's mood lightened considerably. At the very least, she wouldn't have to think about Utaha for a while. With Yukino's help, the last dish was finished in no time. As Haru packed everything into insulated containers, he casually suggested, "Why don't you just stay for dinner? That way, I don't have to carry these all the way to your place." Yukino glanced at the large food container, then suddenly smirked. "I'd actually love to see you walking down the street carrying that thing." Haru nodded as if seriously considering it. "If that's what you want, I can do it. Oh, I could even write something on the box—'This is a special meal for my dear Yukinoshita Yukino.' That way, everyone can witness my deep feelings for you." Yukino's smirk disappeared. "You can shut up now." Without hesitation, she turned and walked into the living room. Knowing Haru, if he said he'd do something, he would do it. He might not mind the embarrassment, but I definitely would. Just the thought of him parading around town with a box labeled with her name, proudly showing it off to passersby, made her head ache. The two settled in the living room, with Yukino claiming the orange cat for herself. She glanced at Haru, who was seated across from her. "I just realized something. You only invited me to stay for dinner—not to stay over?" "If you want to stay, I'd be delighted." Haru smiled awkwardly, then admitted, "But I know you're still mad at me. I wouldn't push my luck." Yukino stared at him for a few seconds before sighing. "Sometimes I think that if you didn't understand me so well, my life would be easier." Haru responded matter-of-factly, "It's divine will. No one can go against it." "…You actually believe in that?" "Of course. Why not? There's an old saying—'If it doesn't cost anything, you might as well believe a little.'" "Where exactly is this 'old saying' from? I've never heard of it." "I found it online." Yukino gave him a deadpan look. "How fitting. That suits your idiocy perfectly." Leaning back, she stretched out her long legs—her body language unmistakably relaxed. Haru's gaze flickered toward them for a second before he quickly looked away. Yukinos pretended not to notice, focusing on petting the cat instead. For a while, silence stretched between them, filled only by the cat's soft purring. Eventually, she broke it. "I can't accept sharing you with someone else." Haru listened attentively. "But… I also know I can't live without you." Haru responded immediately, "That's why I told you—I'll never let go." For the first time that night, Yukino met his gaze directly. Her lightly made-up face carried an unreadable expression. "Have you ever considered what will happen if my parents—or your parents—find out about Kasumigaoka?" Haru didn't hesitate. "Whatever happens, happens." "…That sounds exactly like something you'd say." Yukino sighed, shaking her head. Then, looking down at the sleepy orange cat in her lap, she said, "It's impossible to keep this hidden forever. Even if I don't say anything, my sister, my mother, your mother… Sooner or later, they'll figure it out." Haru stared at her, momentarily speechless. Because he understood what she really meant. She was telling him—I'm forgiving you, for now. No probation period. No conditions. Just forgiveness. Haru exhaled, then hesitated. "And… you and Kasumigaoka…" "You catch on quick." Yukino sounded almost amused. Then, without hiding anything, she calmly stated, "We've already met." Haru fell silent, wisely choosing not to ask more. Yukino seemed pleased by this. She gently stroked the cat's head and then said, "Come sit over here." Haru got up and moved to her side. Slowly, Yukino leaned against his shoulder, closed her eyes, and murmured, "Let's go swimming tomorrow." "Alright." She had forgiven him. At least, for now. The Next Day That morning, Yukino sent a message to their group chat: "Let's go swimming this afternoon. Bring your own swimsuits. If you don't want to come, that's fine." No one declined. After all, swimming was perfect for a hot summer day. Especially since someone had booked the entire place. Yukino chose a one-piece dress-style swimsuit from Mylo swim. She hadn't stayed over at Haru's house last night, but she had stayed until after 8 p.m. When he called for a driver to pick her up, she casually mentioned that it would be better not to wear her school swimsuit—it wouldn't look as nice. Haru had agreed immediately. "True. But you could look even better." So she chose a different one. Yukino's sister, Haruno, had already sent her the address for the pool. She also messaged that she had spoken with the owner, and until they left, no one else would be allowed in. Not even lifeguards. But that wasn't an issue—Yukino was an expert swimmer. And even if she weren't, she had her "monster" boyfriend. Recalling the way Haru had sprinted back home that day, the memory still left her a little shaken. "…Maybe I should run some tests on him sometime." She was genuinely curious about his speed and endurance. By the time everyone gathered at the pool, the photography club was already buzzing with energy. Yukino acknowledged Utaha with a slight nod—a simple greeting. Her calm demeanor made Utaha feel that gap between them all over again. But at least today was a day for fun. Surrounded by everyone's laughter, Utaha slowly relaxed. The girls went to the changing room while Haru, as the only guy, had a much simpler process— Toss off his shirt, put on swim trunks, done. Meanwhile, inside the girls' changing room— "Wow! Kasumigaoka-senpai's chest is huge!" "Seriously! I wish mine were that big." The exclamations of surprise echoed as Hashimoto openly admired the view. Other girls turned to look as well. Only Yukino remained unfazed, calmly changing into her swimsuit. She had already assessed Utaha's size long ago. Most of the girls opted for one-piece swimsuits—some with short bottoms, some with skirts. No one chose a two-piece. Maybe because Haru was there. Or maybe because they had indulged in too much food lately and didn't want to expose their stomachs. When the group finally emerged from the changing room, Utaha naturally stole the spotlight. Her black dress-style swimsuit, meant to be casual, somehow ended up looking like sensual sleepwear on her. Meanwhile, by the poolside— "President, why are you just lying there like a dead fish?" Hashimoto frowned at the sight of Haru lying flat on the ground. "Because it's cool and comfortable." He lazily patted the smooth tile beside him. "You're the photography club president, not the president of the idiot club. Don't be a bad influence." Utaha approached. Haru instinctively opened his eyes— And from his angle, he saw everything. Standing just ahead, Utaha's long, slender legs and notable assets filled his field of vision. This is dangerous…