And so, for some reason, I’m walking home with a beautiful girl. I wonder why.
“Kurata-kun, you’re unexpectedly cool.”
“Huh… Oh, uh, thank you.”
This person suddenly says something outrageous. Huh? How should I react?
Unfortunately, I have no idea.
“By the way, there aren’t many people living on this side, right?”
“Yeah, that’s right. I think most people either live in the residential area south of the school or commute by train.”
This town underwent redevelopment around the station, with the south side developing into a bustling area with large commercial facilities and high-rise apartments. On the other hand, the north side has been slow in its development and still retains a slight scent of the Showa era in its residential area. However, construction of new buildings, including apartments, has recently begun.
“By the way, what do you usually do, Kurata-kun?”
“Well, I guess I cook and do housework while playing games.”
“Huh? Do you live alone and do housework?”
“No, I live with my dad.”
After that, Kirishima fell silent. She’s probably asking where my mother is, right? But it’s not an easy question to ask.
However, I have no intention of bringing it up. It’s not good to get involved with people unnecessarily.
…It’s awkward.
Is it really this awkward when the conversation dies down? For now, let’s bring up some topic.
“There really aren’t many people around here, huh?”
“Yeah. If you were a transfer student, you would probably go to the residential area in the south, so the development here just started.”
That’s right. The redevelopment of the north side has just started recently, and amidst the buildings exuding the atmosphere of the Showa era, new buildings are gradually emerging. The scenery is somewhat heterogeneous.
By the way, the convenience store I stopped by earlier was also a result of that redevelopment.
“Why wasn’t this side developed along with the rest?”
“I don’t know either. But maybe it’s because the south side originally had shopping districts and such, so it was given priority?”
“Indeed, that makes sense.”
“By the way, where is your house?”
I was surprised when suddenly asked about that. It had nothing to do with the flow of our conversation, right?
“Well, um, you know that tobacco shop? The one run by an old lady.”
“Um, uh, oh! Yeah, that one. Got it.”
“Turn left at the corner there, and my house is about 200 meters ahead.”
“Okay. Then, should I bring some sweets next time?”
Why does it seem like you’re so eager to thank me? But I really don’t need it. I don’t need money, and it would feel sneaky to accept something from a girl in the same grade. As for honor, I don’t want my quiet life to change. I don’t wish for such things.
“No, you don’t have to. I mean it.”
“Well… okay. Thank you, though.”
“I’ve said it many times, but really, don’t worry about it. I wouldn’t have lost my life or anything.”
“Yeah. Thanks.”
Saying that, Kirishima turned towards me, her chestnut-colored long hair fluttering, and faced me with a complete turn.
What caught my eye was her smile against the backdrop of the setting sun, an innocent smile that I had never seen at school. She was incredibly cute.
“…W-What? You’re staring at me. Is there something on me?”
Huh! What should I say… I can’t just say that I was looking at your smile.
“N-No, it’s nothing. Is this direction the right one, Kirishima?”
“Yeah. But it’s different direction from the tobacco shop.”
“Understood. Should I accompany you home, or is it fine until we part ways?”
Since she relied on me, I thought I’d ask which option she preferred. I know she has traumas, after all.
“It’s fine until we part ways. It’s surprising that you would ask, Kurata-kun. You’ve changed in my image.”
“Huh? What kind of image did you have of me until now…”
“I won’t tell you. But being kind is something that hasn’t changed from the beginning.”
What is it? It’s quite embarrassing or, well, I don’t know how to describe it. But I’m really happy to be valued in that way.
“Are you blushing, by any chance? Huh? Huh?”
“N-No, I’m not blushing or anything. Come on, let’s hurry before it gets dark.”
“Okay.”
Afterward, we exchanged light small talk and safely escorted Kirishima partway. It turns out that Kirishima and I get along surprisingly well, which is good.