Morning classes weren't much different from previous days—just self-study or watching films. Yuu, as usual, spent the time reading.
This time, the book was a French classic: In Search of Lost Time.
A stream-of-consciousness literary work like this—and the original edition, full of French—was truly hard for ordinary people to read. Just flipping pages could make one dizzy.
One needed adequate French proficiency and patience to empathize with the protagonist's inner world before, midway through, gradually gaining reading pleasure and recognizing its essence as a literary masterpiece.
As for Yuu's French ability—since he never acquired related skills—he wasn't very fluent, at least in speaking. He was already satisfied that, thanks to Expert Learning, he could read French novels without translation from zero in under ten hours.
Conversely, Yukino—who strongly recommended the book and tried to be his French teacher—was very dissatisfied.
"My request isn't much. Can't you be a little dumber? Or act like a carbon-based lifeform. Even though I love you deeply, dating an alien still causes some rejection."
The cold girl who could say such words with a superior attitude—yet often blushed and secretly kissed him on empty stairs, or hugged him tightly, burying her face in his chest, inhaling deeply, then parting as if nothing happened after one or two minutes.
Those actions were as strong as wanting to carve her mark on his body. Those feelings were as beautiful as a kitten's claws scratching his heart.
Moreover, during late-night calls, Yukino's voice was always softer and more spoiled than usual—making Yuu's ears itch.
Without her usual cold calm demeanor, she was just an innocent naive girl. When discussing her favorite novel's plot, her tone became excited and fluent. When sensing author bias, she'd pout and stubbornly criticize.
Before sleep—when hanging up—she'd softly huff reluctantly, but from the heart harbor hope, smiling gently:
"See you tomorrow, Tenkuji-kun."
He'd forgotten what he said in the past—but current Yuu felt Yukino was truly fascinating.
Pure, intelligent, honest beauty that wasn't annoying—it was a treasure only he possessed.
Every day and night, he felt the growing feeling in his chest—storing many memories of her. Just recalling—warmth overflowed from him.
Even midday—calling her at the stair corner to discuss something—Yuu unconsciously smiled. The white breath from his mouth seemed to outline her.
"Darling—can you take the call now?"
"I hope when asking that—you use an opener that won't cause misunderstandings." The soft voice on the other end sighed helplessly—but like him, couldn't hold laughter in her tone.
"What's up? If business—texting should be easier, right?"
Yuu said seriously: "No way. My ears would protest my fingers. What they want is you—not an emotionless dialog box."
"Don't sweet-talk." Yukino—used to such words—was unmoved like frozen ice. "Eating lunch at the Service Club?"
"Saying 'go' instead of 'come' means you're still in class—and not planning to go to the club later, right?"
"Correct guess—unfortunately no prize."
Leaning relaxed against the wall, Yuu huffed: "Joking—usually I'm the one giving you prizes, okay?"
"...Hehe—so you think that way."
Silence on the line. Then laughter—filled with danger thin as ice.
"I see. For tonight's hot pot party—look forward to it well."
But Yuu not only didn't apologize—he continued provocatively: "Hmph—you talk big—don't disappoint me later."
"Relax—I won't."
Yukino snorted several times—making Yuu look pleased.
Don't misunderstand. It was like an elementary boy always angering the girl he likes.
Yuu deliberately provoked Yukino because he wanted to see her various reactions—shy, annoyed, or cute. He just wanted to see her sides unknown to others. He wanted to store all of Yukino in his heart—and enjoy this beauty alone.
So—he absolutely didn't expect evil thoughts for her to break through shame and do 'stimulating play' on him.
Such dirty disgusting thoughts—though he... had many in his head—he definitely wouldn't admit voluntarily!
"Back to the main topic. I'll eat lunch with Yuuki-san and Natsukawa-san this afternoon—what about you?"
Weird combination?
Yuu couldn't help raising brows—becoming slightly curious.
But recalling Yukino earlier saying Class J's homeroom teacher asked her to accompany transfer student Asuna around school—plus Masuzu's meddling nature—three-person lunch didn't seem too strange.
If Yuu was too shocked—it'd make him look guilty. So—for now he set aside unnecessary thoughts, saying normally: "I'll eat a 'farewell dinner' with Totsuka in the cafeteria. After all—we won't meet for about two weeks—and we never hung out. Better gather now."
Yukino said half-sighing half-joking: "Totsuka-kun again? Your same-sex friend really is just him..."
"Why—are you jealous?"
"I won't be jealous of a guy." After cold reply, Yukino suddenly asked, "What about Yuigahama-san?"
Yuu found it odd: "Didn't she say in the group she's eating with Miura and others today?"
"No—I mean..."
For some reason—her voice sounded slightly worried and careful.
"Is she really looking forward to tonight's hot pot party?"
"Probably? I didn't see her hating it."
Yuu frowned thinking a moment. Recalling this morning's Yuigahama—he became less confident.
"Hmm... I feel she's hiding something. Should I ask her?"
"No need—I know what she's thinking." As if expecting it, Yukino sighed softly. "Don't worry. It's not a big deal... After today—maybe everything will be fine."
"Can you tell me?"
Yuu spoke seriously—but Yukino suddenly laughed relaxedly, counter-teasing: "Idiot—how can I tell you, my boyfriend, about girl-talk between girlfriends? Remember—you're two-timing now."
"What does that have to do with two-timing? I just want to give advice..."
"I don't need your advice. Anyway—you'll understand sooner or later."
Cutting Yuu off without chance, Yukino then softened her tone—saying gently:
"Then—see you after school."
Without waiting for reply—she ended the call. She pocketed her phone—and sighed softly.
"After everything's done—I'll properly apologize to Yui..."
Though her heart was sad and guilty—she had no regrets at all.
She closed her eyes—and when opening again—only determination and fearless advance remained.
What Yukino asked of Yuigahama was very simple.
Letting her enjoy Yuu alone for one day—or more precisely—one night.
This was of course an excessive request for Yuigahama—also a girlfriend.
...But Yuigahama probably guessed what she wanted to do, right?
That's why she agreed so easily—and cooperated hiding it from Yuu.
From their first meeting—Yukino knew Yuigahama was very gentle.
Even knowing she might steal a head start—even saying such sly words—she didn't hesitate—handing over the very important Christmas Eve date to her.
If it was Yukino—she might hesitate long before forcing agreement.
Thus—when hearing Yuu say Yuigahama looked down—Yukino secretly felt relieved—and even a bit lucky.
(Thank goodness—she's not indifferent... She's just pretending to be fine so I won't worry.)
To her—Yuigahama and Yuu were equally important. They were the people she valued most in this world—besides family.
Honestly helping them—being honestly helped by them—and honestly admitting she owed someone.
These were things past Yukino couldn't do—and growth she was proud of now.
Because of this—she had one more reason to step toward the future—
Repaying Yuigahama today.
"So—I won't forget."
Clutching her chest—Yukino softly swore to herself.
Then she stepped—returning to Class J.
Three desks and chairs in the back row had been joined into a large table. Masuzu—the main worker—wiped nonexistent sweat from her forehead—giving a fake bright smile.
"Yukinoshita-san—welcome back! First time eating with classmates by joining desks—so fun~"
Lazily glancing—she sat in her seat. Taking out her lunch—she said flatly: "Is it appropriate for someone who came alone to say that?"
Masuzu's smile unchanged—but her tone clearly piercing: "I don't know if appropriate—at least I have no worries now~ Unlike a certain beauty—wrinkles almost appearing between her brows. So pitiful."
"That has nothing to do with you."
"Did I say it does? I'm just waiting to watch a good show."
"Speaking of good shows—you seemed to perform many in the past. I still remember how pitiful your performance was then. Hope you don't mind."
"Same to you. After all—you'll sooner or later become the next me—and then—I'll record your far more pitiful expression."
"Please say that nonsense in your dreams."
"Same—being too optimistic isn't good."
Word for word—like swords slashing mercilessly at the opponent—but always failing to defeat the equal.
Though neither looked at each other—invisible colliding sparks burned the air—producing a scorched smell.
"Uh—that..."
Asuna—sandwiched between them—looked awkward.
Though she didn't understand what they were arguing about—or why eating together despite clearly bad relations—but since both were the people she knew best in the new school—she tried easing the atmosphere with awkward laughter:
"By the way—you both brought bentos? Did you make them yourselves? Mine was prepared by the housekeeper. Though I want to make my own—unfortunately I can't wake early. Thinking to practice cooking during winter break."
Easing the cold indifferent atmosphere—Yukino took out her bento. Following Asuna's ladder—she said flatly: "Yes—I live alone—so I cook three meals myself."
"Eh~ Amazing~" Clasping hands exclaiming—Asuna then turned to Masuzu. "What about Natsukawa-san?"
"Mine's factory-made."
Masuzu smiled mysteriously.
"Eh?"
Under Asuna's shocked gaze—Masuzu pulled a jelly drink pouch from her pocket—proudly shaking it before her eyes.
"Latest Weider in! Nutritious and tasty—and saves lots of eating time~"
"T-that so..." Mouth corners twitching slightly. Asuna tilted her head confused. "Natsukawa-san—your lunch every day is just jelly drinks..."
"Problem? For personal reasons—I don't like eating much—so I'm used to using jelly drinks for nutrition and meal replacement."
Masuzu shrugged. After casual explanation—she suddenly smiled staring at Yukino.
"Yuuki-san—no need to worry about my nutrition balance. At least my body development is perfect—far better than certain people who eat normally."
"..."
Asuna didn't dare respond. She just carefully observed Yukino's expression from the corner of her eye.
Unexpectedly—her reaction was very calm. This calm relaxed appearance instead made Masuzu's provocation seem very childish.
"Let's eat first. I'm not used to talking while eating—please understand."
Casually opening her bento box—Yukino took her chopsticks—softly saying itadakimasu.
Asuna realized. She hurriedly opened her bento—preparing to enjoy lunch in this awkward silent atmosphere... Though because of the two—she truly lost appetite.
"Alright—I apologize."
As if all pretense suddenly vanished—Masuzu suddenly bowed apologizing to Yukino—tone very sincere.
But ignoring her reaction—after lifting head—Masuzu twisted open the jelly drink cap. Setting aside all deliberate provocation and targeting—she said casually:
"I thought I could test your current plan—but didn't expect you to hold back this far. Instead—I feel like a clown... Though unpleasant—I can only honestly admit defeat."
"Congratulations—Yukinoshita-san—you win."
Asuna: "..."
What did winning or not mean? Were these two starting 'riddle speaker' mode again?
She held her chopsticks—trying to reduce presence—and obediently did what a background should.
"Sorry—I always win."
Only after swallowing food in her mouth did Yukino speak slowly—answering Masuzu flatly: "I roughly understand your goal—but anyway—all your little moves now are just futile—and won't affect us at all."
"No—you don't understand." Masuzu shook her head. She smiled mischievously like teasing. "I have no goal—at least for now."
Yukino couldn't help frowning. She finally looked directly: "Then—everything you said earlier was because you were bored and wanted trouble?"
"Half true." Masuzu raised one finger. "The other half—because there's something I want to know."
She slightly narrowed eyes. The smile at her lip corners suddenly vanished—turning into a very serious expression.
"Yukinoshita Yukino—are you planning to end everything today? Considering tonight is Christmas Eve... How far do you want to go?"
"..."
Her azure eyes rippled slightly. Yukino pursed lips a bit—staring silently.
(...True—Natsukawa-san doesn't know Yuuki-san is also an ex-girlfriend—so she speaks vaguely—using shallow hints like this to probe.)
(Yuuki-san's situation might be the same.)
Though Yukino didn't know if the other had regained past memories—what was certain was Asuna also didn't know about 'the ex-girlfriends'—after all—if she said nothing—this side had no obligation to reveal that info.
Since Asuna didn't know the truth—it was natural she felt confused by Masuzu's words now.
"Haaah..."
After understanding these—Yukino drew a soft breath—then slowly exhaled.
Shifting gaze—her slender fingers held chopsticks. She continued eating gracefully—elegantly—and calmly.
"Yes or no—that has nothing to do with you. Just look forward to tomorrow—and—remember every minute and second now."
"If you can't remember—no matter how much you ask—it'll be futile."
Yukino also said this sentence to herself in her heart.
Thus—she would remember this anticipation for tomorrow deeper than anyone.
She would—definitely change the ending she believed in.
"You..."
Masuzu stared half a moment. She suddenly sucked the jelly drink hard as if venting frustration—and choked.
"Pu—cough cough... Tch—evil person! I even saw JOJO's golden spirit and determination light in you. Must've been my mistake... After all—if I knew so much beforehand—I definitely could've done better than you now..."
Hearing that reluctant mutter—Yukino lifted eyelids—and for the first time gave her a sincere smile.
"In this world—there aren't many 'ifs'. Facts prove—I'm doing far better than you now, Natsukawa-san."
Wiping her wet lip corners—Masuzu raised brows mockingly: "You? I can already imagine you crying and nauseous in bed after waking."
Yukino covered mouth surprised: "Oh—so you were that pitiful? Truly sad..."
"Ono Re Yukinoshita! Just wait until I really remember—I'll keep repeating our intimate process in your ears!"
"Natsukawa-san is so childish. Seems I was too harsh on you in the past..."
"Haha—hope you're not too harsh on your body shape either."
"...This is the second time. There won't be a third."
"You think I'm scared? Dare to try?"
"..."
As an observer—Asuna hadn't even finished her third bite of rice. The two before her had started mocking each other again.
She sighed helplessly.
Though she still didn't understand what they were arguing about—but seeing their expressions—she could guess it was definitely something very boring and meaningless.
Moreover—though they seemed to argue fiercely—they had no intent to truly get angry...
Was this because they disliked each other—or because they had a good relationship in a different way?
While thinking—Asuna quickly gave up pondering. She continued being an obedient observer—doing nothing but eating.
Only occasionally—a very strange thought popped into her mind—without basis—
(Maybe—I should join them too?)
◆━⊰✧⊱━◆
After some lunch break rest—the closing ceremony started—ending around 2 PM.
After waving goodbye to Totsuka—and promising to find a day during winter break to play tennis at the city court—and seeing Yuigahama still had much to say to Yumiko and friends—Yuu took his school bag—and went to the Service Club first.
But not long after arriving at the special building—he received a notification message from Yukino.
「Change meeting place to the station—we'll buy ingredients together.」