NOVEL NEXT Chapter 63
“──Thank you for the meal.”
“It was nothing special.”
I finished eating the omelet rice and let out a sigh of relief. …Yeah, it was delicious. The simple, homey seasoning really soothed my stressed-out stomach.
The presence of Chiaki-san, who had been watching over me and occasionally bringing up conversation, was also comforting. On a normal day, I might have struggled with her reactions, but today, being so worn out both mentally and physically from the irregular situation, it was different.
It felt like she reminded me of ordinary daily life, and it was incredibly soothing.
“Well then, I’ll wash these dishes and head home. Haruto-kun, make sure to get plenty of rest tonight, okay?”
──So I made a decision. Just for today, it would be special. Just for today, I would be bold to ensure a comfortable night.
“Hey, Chiaki-san.”
“Hmm?”
I called out to Chiaki-san, who was already starting to get ready to leave after doing what she needed to.
Normally, she would have tried to stay as long as possible, either by bringing up topics of conversation or engaging in some unpredictable behavior. Or she might have given me wistful glances while preparing to leave.
But today, there was none of that. Today, Chiaki-san was entirely focused on me. She suppressed her own desires and was always attentive.
“Actually, there’s one more thing I’d like to ask. Could you listen?”
“Sure, sure. What is it? If it’s something I can do, I’ll be happy to help.”
That’s why I felt like I could ask for something unusual. Given how Chiaki-san was today, I could trust and rely on her.
“Well, could you stay with me tonight?”
“……Huh?”
“To be direct, would you spend the night here?”
“…………Eep!?”
Whoa! That was close!? Chiaki-san almost screamed just now, didn’t she!? I understand being surprised, but it’s the middle of the night! It could cause a disturbance to the neighbors, and worst case, the police might show up!
“Ugh, mmm!?”
“Okay, stop. I get that you’re surprised, but let’s cool down for a moment. If you make a commotion, it’ll be a problem for the neighbors. Okay?”
“……!”
I checked her reaction. Although she was still clearly shocked, it seemed like she had regained some of her composure.
Still, I gazed at Chiaki-san with a sense of urgency, and she gave a small nod, her cheeks flushed. …Yeah, it seems like this will work out.
“Gasp, I’m really surprised……! I’m really surprised! Not just your words, but even when you suddenly covered my mouth, I was shocked!”
“You were about to shout. It’s not a joke; neighbor trouble is no laughing matter.”
“I know that, but still!? It’s not something I can just accept like that! I didn’t even wear cute underwear today!”
“Okay, I get it. I admit I phrased it in a way that could be misunderstood. I didn’t expect it to have this effect. It was meant to be a little prank. I’m really sorry.”
“……Huh? So, was the invitation just now a lie?”
“No, that part is genuine. If possible, I’d like you to stay over tonight.”
“Wait, wait, I don’t understand! I don’t know what’s real anymore!? Haruto-kun, are you trying to give me a heart attack!?”
“That’s an unreasonable accusation.”
Why? Chiaki-san had been making advances for so long that I thought I could ask without any shame. How did it leap to a murder plot from there?
Just to clarify, this is not a harassment attempt, nor is it said lightly. I admit there’s a bit of mischief mixed in, but it’s more of a nervous bravado than anything else.
“So what is it!? What did you mean by saying that!? Are you okay, or did you hit your head!? Should I call an ambulance?”
“I understand you’re having a hard time believing this, but you don’t need to worry about my health. I keep saying this, but I’m perfectly fine. I’m in good shape.”
I understand she’s worried, but come on. I’m completely sane. I’m not delirious.
“It’s just that, well, saying it out loud is really embarrassing, so I didn’t want to say it honestly.”
“Please say it? I’m sorry, but I really need an explanation.”
“……”
Ugh, this is tough. I really don’t want to say it. I know I have to, but it’s just too embarrassing.
“……Um, well.”
“Yes?”
“Today, from an objective standpoint, I really went through a dangerous situation, right?”
“That’s right. That’s why I came here to check on you.”
“Right? And, uh, to be honest, I was really pushing myself. While I was at the police station, I didn’t feel that way, probably due to adrenaline. …But once I got home and saw your face, I felt a sense of relief.”
“Oh, um, wait, my face is probably showing a big smile. Sorry, just wait a moment?”
“Don’t wait. I need to say it quickly or I’ll lose my nerve.”
“Haruto-kun!?”
I’m sorry, but I really can’t do this. My sense of shame is overwhelming. If I let this moment pass, I might never say it.
“So, when I relaxed, all the fear came flooding back all of a sudden.”
“That’s… a normal reaction, I think. There’s no need to be embarrassed.”
“And then I felt a strong desire for human warmth.”
“Huh?”
“Honestly, to be frank. I’m quite scared. Earlier, I had flashbacks of blood-splattered floors in the bath, and even now, if I let my guard down, my hands start to shake.”
“……”
“So, leaving out any sexual or romantic considerations, I want you to stay by my side tonight. Just keep me company until I fall asleep. …Is that okay?”
“……”
“Chiaki-san? Is it impossible? If it’s a problem, I’m okay with that──”
“Haruto-kun!”
“Whoa!? Y-Yes! What is it?”
“Tonight, I will not let you sleep!!”
No, please let me sleep? I want you to stay with me until I fall asleep, not keep me awake all night. Are you listening?