"Of course. I should say that all the songs I performed on stage were ones I created based on my feelings at the time."
Yuu answered with an expression as if it were no big deal.
"Created on the spot..."
Murmuring in awe, Saori covered her full, soft lips with her fan. Her gaze gradually showed clear admiration.
"Tenkiji-kun, I'm sure you're not exaggerating right now... Meaning, you can truly compose a piano piece in a short time with complete structure, precise rhythm, rich emotions, and no less than classical works?"
"You overpraise. It's actually not that good." Yuu coughed, slightly embarrassed by the other's praise.
"My own piano playing skill is only average. Compared to professional experts, it can only be called ordinary... However, in conveying emotions through the instrument, I have a bit of confidence that doesn't lose to anyone. This is the best aspect I can offer."
Perhaps only Yukino could hear that only half of this man's words were believable; the rest was humility or deliberately hiding his skill.
But she had no intention of exposing his disguise. She just silently shifted her gaze from her mother to her sister, secretly vigilant, preventing her sister from suddenly doing something strange.
"No need to be so humble. For the Yukinoshita family, talent—strong or weak—isn't the standard to judge you. Attitude and behavior are what matter most." In a gentle tone, Saori smiled at him, "I've seen geniuses called monsters like you, and I've seen children who abandon great talent to chase their dreams. Regardless of whether they succeed in the end, such existences are always admirable."
"Yes, so I don't plan to develop a professional career in piano in the future." His attitude suddenly became more serious. Yuu took out his business card wallet from his pocket and pushed a card across the table.
"Though the scale isn't large, I currently manage a network technology company. Since founding, we've completed many projects. This is the direction I'll strive for in the future."
He didn't forget to give one to Mama Yuigahama. As he was about to put away the wallet, he felt a very friendly gaze from Haruno, so he was forced to give another.
"Tenkiji Network Technology... I'll remember. Hope for future cooperation opportunities."
After seeing the card, Saori stored it casually, as if unconcerned with his achievements. She continued questioning: "Let's return to the music topic. Since it's your original, have you thought of a title?"
Yuu was slightly puzzled: "Title? Not yet..."
"Then, no hesitation. Use the person you thought of while playing this song as the title."
"..."
Enjoying his suddenly silent expression, Saori laughed softly as expected. She closed her fan and explained casually: "My artistic taste is quite good. I can hear this is a song you made for someone... Or rather, because your piano playing conveys emotions strong enough, even though it's pure music without lyrics, I can still hear someone's shadow in it, and your deep longing for her."
Yuu's expression was odd, and he still didn't say a word.
"Still won't admit it?"
Narrowing her eyes slightly, Saori suddenly turned, staring at the confused-looking Yukino: "Yukino, didn't you hear it?"
"Hear what..."
Stunned momentarily, Yukino suddenly realized, unable to help staring in shock: "That song earlier, was it for me..."
"Alright, then let's name it Winter Snow."
Yuu shrugged. He looked into Saori's eyes and answered: "Though not made specifically for Yukino, the overall tone of the song was composed based on my impression of her."
"Hmm, my feeling was right." Saori nodded satisfied, then sincerely praised, "A very beautiful song. No exaggeration to say it's the world's most sincere love confession."
Yuu accepted the praise calmly.
"Anyway, why couldn't Yukino-chan hear it?"
Beside, Haruno propped her cheek with one hand. Her amused gaze mixed with slight sourness scanned her sister top to bottom. She asked in a sarcastic tone:
"Mom and I both know that song was played for you, and you—the person involved, closest to the stage—didn't notice at all?"
"B-because I was thinking about something then, and there were many things to do backstage..."
Rarely panicked, Yukino explained slightly sadly. After, she secretly glanced at Yuu. Her gradually blushing face lowered, uncomfortably touching her long hair by her cheek.
Then, she softly uttered: "...Thank you, I'm very happy."
"Haa..."
Yuu also scratched his cheek. His heart itched a bit from her shy cute appearance, but he couldn't do anything, so he could only hold back.
"You're welcome. Anyway, it really wasn't played specifically for you... Just thought of you while playing, and that's how it came out."
"Enough, stop!"
Long hair covered her reddened ears and cheek sides. Yukino pouted her soft lips. She lightly kicked his leg under the table, like a warning and whining.
The sour love aroma directly pierced the nose. Haruno truly couldn't stand staying at this table another second, but she couldn't slam the table and leave angrily.
So, her eyes spun, and she interrupted smiling: "By the way, Yukino-chan, I have the audio recording~ Want it?"
"Thank you, but no."
Yukino immediately calmed. She raised her head, combed her bangs aside, and said flatly: "Conversely, the committee has the highest quality audio file. Want me to give you a copy?"
"Tch!"
Haruno clicked her tongue. She glanced annoyed at Yuu again, and stopped talking.
"You..."
Normally she'd ignore, but for some reason, strange emotions suddenly surfaced. Her mouth slightly opened. She almost couldn't hold the urge to talk to him like moments ago.
(Why? Why suddenly care about him?)
Before Yuu could understand this feeling, Mama Yuigahama's voice sounded beside.
"So happy~ Why no song for my Yui~"
The youthful-faced mom cupped her cheeks, acting like a child denied candy, pouting her clear tiny lips while whining.
Yuigahama full of embarrassment, tried reaching to cover her mom's mouth.
"Mom, don't! I don't need..."
"Don't need or don't want?"
As if seeing everything, Mama Yuigahama stared deeply. Her gaze gentle but allowing no evasion.
Yuigahama stunned momentarily, unconsciously answering: "W-want, of course want, but if I tell Yuu-kun, he'll play for me anytime..."
"That was originally my exclusive right."
Surrounded by two large-breasted women, Sora added flatly.
"Anytime, huh?" Mama Yuigahama confirmed her expression. She suddenly smiled relieved, sighing meaningfully:
"Good~ Anyway, in the future, you'll walk together a long time. Then, don't say just one song. Asking Yuu to make a special song for Yui on every birthday seems quite romantic!"
"Yes, quite romantic."
Though not directed specifically, Saori took over uninvited.
She opened her fan again, covering her lips, as if showing a thin smile behind.
"However, after this Winter Snow, Tenkiji-kun will make another song for Yukino, right? Or just this once?"
Stared coldly by Saori, Yuu suddenly had a strange feeling that adult Yukino was threatening him to tell the truth.
"Uh, of course not..."
"By the way!" Before Yuu finished, Mama Yuigahama suddenly clapped hands. Head resting on supported palms, she said brightly smiling, "How about making a song for Yui right now! I remember a piano app on phone that can be played directly... How about title Yui's Love?"
Saori raised brows, finally shifting gaze aside. She said gently: "Yuigahama-san, it's mealtime now. This suggestion seems a bit inappropriate."
Mama Yuigahama also turned. As if not feeling the superior pressure and authority in those eyes, she blinked innocently.
"Really? I think not! Anyway, main dishes not served yet, so just listen to Yuu play a song for Yui to pass time."
"Art isn't called passing time."
Knowing explanation wouldn't convince, Saori quickly changed: "Time and place unsuitable, and phone app music won't sound good."
"No problem, I just want to hear what song he'd give Yui."
"Indeed, quite curious."
"Hmm?" Mama Yuigahama slightly surprised seeing Saori nod agreement.
But next second, the kimono beauty narrowed eyes like crescent moons. Fan bone touched her tiny chin. She said slightly smug like a child:
"Anyway, a loving song no different from love confession like Winter Snow probably can't be imitated. Under this premise, how will he play a piano song glorifying friendship? This point truly makes one curious."
"Hmm, so..."
Murmuring softly, palm gently stuck to her smooth cheek. Mama Yuigahama also narrowed eyes observing Saori. Unwilling-to-lose light flashed in her eyes.
She suddenly sighed, saying regretfully: "Indeed, Yui missed her best chance."
Saori slightly frowned. Just showing confused expression, she saw Mama Yuigahama put on disappointed face, but lip corners repeatedly couldn't help curving up saying:
"Anyway, relationship with Yui already very deep. Unfitting for him to do love confession playing piano like a child now."
After pause, she added seriously: "Long-term couple joy isn't in exaggerated things like this!"
"..."
Saori silent momentarily.
If gazes had power, right now Yuu might have frozen to death multiple times.
*PAT!*
Her fan opened again, covering the kimono beauty's lower face.
As if adjusting mood with closed eyes, Saori opened them after moments. No longer looking at Yuu before her, but said to Mama Yuigahama:
"Sorry to ask, does your daughter have a boyfriend?"
Mama Yuigahama narrowed eyes to thin lines, saying casually: "I find it very strange too... Don't tell me your Yukino-chan is also dating that guy?"
"..."
After brief conversation pause, attention suddenly reversed, naturally pointing to the source of all this.
Saori's tone directly turned cold, even slightly firm: "Since you don't want us using small tests to probe you, I'll ask directly—Tenkiji-kun, you're definitely dating Yukino, right?"
Smile on Mama Yuigahama's face completely vanished. She stared seriously at Yuu's face: "Yuu, you didn't do anything disappointing Yui, right?"
"..."
Haruno didn't speak. She just propped her cheek, indifferently observing the solemn serious atmosphere.
Sora had no intention to interfere. She was just ready to take her brother away from these two old women anytime, completely uncaring what they'd think.
As for Yukino and Yuigahama, they knew now wasn't time for them to speak. They just reached again to hold his jacket hem, telling him both were by his side.
But next moment, their hands were held by him, wrapped tightly in his palms, placed openly on the table.
Facing the moms' direct questions, Yuu no longer needed hesitation. He answered calmly:
"As you see, I, Tenkuji Yuu, am currently dating both your daughters simultaneously."
Both moms: "😐"
The suddenly deep frightening gazes made Yuu's heart momentarily skip and hard to breathe—not from fear of authoritative cold housewife aura, but in this short time, his mind flashed future images of Yukino sent abroad, Yui forced to transfer schools, both leaving him under parental orders.
Precisely because he didn't want such future, he'd strive harder than before to protect the precious present.
Yuu drew deep breath. He stared unblinking into both moms' eyes, as if letting sword tips touch his chest. He said calmly:
"Supposedly, even the most shameless man shouldn't say such rude words before the girl's mother... However, from my view, my feelings for them, and theirs for me, aren't things to hide, disguise falsely, hard to express."
"Though I have endless apologies to both mothers, I won't let our three-person relationship become a lie!"
In total silence, Yuu released the girls' hands, declaring loudly again:
"I'm dating both your daughters simultaneously, and will continue, even if I must be a shameless rude man—please believe, I'll use all life efforts to give them equal eternal happiness."
"..."
His words slowly dissolved at the silent table. As if all surrounding air removed, unbearable heat began spreading.
This sincere weighty oath seemed not to move the moms at all. Rather, they found it very funny, like watching a child say the joke After growing up I'll marry XX! They couldn't take it seriously.
But Yuu's cheating fact was before eyes, making it impossible to laugh—especially his truthful face, like a shameless hero, as if saying dating two girls simultaneously wasn't bad. As long as they're happy, no need to interfere.
Initially ridiculous, then angry, then disappointed.
"Yukino, break up with him." Saori said coldly, no room for rebuttal.
"Sorry, I refuse, Mother." Yukino answered calmly. Her gaze firm cold like ice.
"Yui, what do you think?" Mama Yuigahama put serious face, gesturing her daughter to think carefully before answering.
"This is my decision." Yuigahama spoke seriously, saying the answer she'd thought.
Then, they eye-contacted, smiling simultaneously.
Yui: "Mom, you know nothing."
Yukino: "Precisely because we've gone through much together, struggled many times, saddened many times, now we can be grateful for this choice, and never regret."
Right after his two girlfriends, facing Saori whose anger hardened like cold wind, and Mama Yuigahama slightly frowning unsure what she thought, Yuu spoke again:
"I don't want to use your concern and love for your daughters to threaten acceptance of our relationship. I also don't know what to do for you to believe I'll definitely bring happiness to Yui and Yukino."
He spread hands helplessly, like an old gambler out of cards only able to cheat, last struggle before the dealer.
"I'll prove this future with actions. For now, I can only say grand mouth words, hoping to make your feelings slightly more comfortable."
*PAT!*
Fan bone hit table loudly. Saori stared sharply. That momentum as if suffocating.
"Actions? Words? Don't joke! Tenkiji-kun, no matter how well you do, how right your reasons, once you choose cheating, it's equating Yukino and others' lifetime value to only half your life!"
"Who do you think you are? Above others?"
Yuu answered calmly smiling: "Sorry, even if you pin such big lifetime value hat on me, I won't break up from guilt—after all, I'm nobody. Just a boyfriend wanting to be with them."
"Fine, then aren't you afraid what others will think of you?" Pointing to other Class A customers, Saori continued aggressively pressing.
Her tone firm but unemotional, as if wanting him to realize mistake through endless questions: "Even if you're not afraid, if news spreads of them dating you simultaneously, what will others think of them? Peer criticism, even future society and both sides' relatives gossip, have you thought of all this? Thought of what pressure and pain they'll face?"
"Of course, all you said are things that once troubled me."
Like coral standing firm in rapids, Yuu's expression unchanged. He suddenly called Sora.
Then, under Saori and others' shocked gazes, a possibly dozens-page work plan appeared on the table.
Unzipping her small bag, Sora sighed wordlessly: "...Probably only Yuu would do something like this worldwide."
Though muttering so, her lip corners couldn't help curving up, as if admiring her foolish jerk brother.
"This..."
After both moms shifted shocked gazes to the plan cover, Yuu pushed his nose bridge. As if invisible glasses reflection flashed before him.
He showed elegant cultured smile. Interlaced fingers on table, speaking slowly, salesman-like tone:
"Of course no one believes just words. So, I spent days listing problems we'll face after dating as three, solutions to overcome, various risk avoidance guidelines."
"Rough interaction model follows what's written. At the very end, my life plan so far, including future house size I'll buy, how to handle marriage issues, who'll take children's surname in future. All discussable together..."
The flowing words eliminated all air tension and solemnity.
Like a manager in product presentation, Yuu spoke uncaring of anyone, completely ignoring everyone's truly frozen expressions except Sora.
Because he knew better than anyone his capabilities were very limited.
He didn't want to hypnotize moms with words. He knew highly unlikely to convince them to hand daughters just with words. Light novels don't write how to deal with girlfriends' parents after opening harem—
He, stiff like honest man, no authority making anyone trust, no know-how to play dumb or ambiguous to fool them, how could he pass mother-in-law chaos and get both girlfriends' family recognition?
Yuu never stopped thinking. It was instinct he relied on to survive.
Coincidentally face accident, prove love with life?
Don't talk if such coincidence happens. Yuu absolutely unwilling to use their safety as bargaining chip for recognition. Also don't want them sad crying worrying about him.
Or, develop power rivaling Shinomiya family, openly marry multiple wives?
No one would object, many upper circle do same. Occasionally hear legitimate, concubine, illegitimate child rumors, no one surprised—if talking opening harem, what's high school Japanese boy? Nobles are most unrestrained immoral.
But time insufficient!
With current background, if he dared say wants to build Tenkuji family future, ready marry multiple wives many heirs, dating two girlfriends nothing, he might get slapped multiple times on spot by both moms, blacklisted no contact from then.
After long thought, fool like him could only use most foolish method.
"Honestly, I must thank you both for not immediately leaving with daughters after hearing I date them. This gives me chance to prove myself."
After finishing one part, Yuu sighed. Confident expression slowly vanished. He coughed twice hoarsely.
Seeing this, Sora immediately gave barley tea bottle—Yuigahama beside still shocked, so she could only do it.
After wetting throat with barley tea, he continued: "What's wrong with high schooler dating two girlfriends? What business of yours us just dating? Even if you deny our relationship, we can still find ways to meet secretly, even elope somewhere no one finds... I've thought all these reasons excuses, but even if successful, what's the point?"
His eyes like calmly twinkling galaxy. Voice as if released voice changer, no longer flowing confidence as before.
Only thin, sincere, heartfelt pleading heard.
"My goal isn't to date them, then fulfill own desires. But to make Yukinoshita Yukino and Yuigahama Yui—make my girlfriends happy, reach ending where no one hurt, that's all."
Facing both moms' slowly raised gazes, silent complicated gazes, Yuu reached girls' hands again. He said seriously word by word:
"So, these are my feelings."
Then, he shifted gaze to the plan opened at last page on table.
"That's my reality."
Yuu placed his hand, smiling slightly at moms, final conclusion.
"Maybe you can't acknowledge me now, but I'm ready—to make such feelings reality anyone can accept."
"Though all heartfelt, if unused to grand rhetoric, I can change speaking way."
As if no longer pretending good child, Yuu's face smile grew brighter, reaching refreshing shameless level.
"I like Yukino, and like Yui too! I want to be with them forever, don't want other men touching even their fingertips!"
"Sorry, this is my selfishness."
Though such feelings existed since first mission.
But this was first time turning into complete words, clearly expressing to others.
—Yes, Tenkuji Yuu is a very possessive jerk type man, but can also flirt with other girls.
He's usually faithful, but if liking several simultaneously, can say rude words like "I want them all."
Pity, turns out he's not as noble as he believed.
If so, even if not asking system to take his feelings then, would he...
He seemed to understand his heart, as if passionate feelings suddenly surfaced from depths, uncontrollably taking root spreading.
Yuu glanced around table. He glanced at Haruno slightly biting lip odd expression without trace, immediately withdrawing gaze.
Right then, the tiny silver-haired prince also came bringing food.
Since always attentive surroundings, this time before stepping into affected range, Yuu retracted 「Earless Wall」 status, turning to take plates from her hands.
"Thanks, let me."
"No, let me." Kanade shook head. Tone flat but firm, "I'm butler, you're guest. Let me serve."
"Alright." Yuu not too insistent. He soon sat back, watching her light stable movements placing food on table. Her strength seemed greater than imagined.
"More in back, please wait a bit."
Bowing slightly, before turning to leave, Kanade's expression still flat, but much doubt in heart.
(Why all their expressions so strange, except Sora and Yuu-senpai?)
(And atmosphere very stuffy. What's that plan-like thing on table for?)
Pity, she's working now, unused to prying others' affairs.
So though curious, Kanade stepped firmly, preparing next dishes.
"...For cheating, need to go this far?"
Once Kanade left, Saori broke stuffy atmosphere with emotionless voice.
Frowning brows touched by fan tip. Her knife-like cold gaze somewhat resembled Yukino... Perhaps genetic inheritance.
Should Yuu say they're indeed mother-daughter?
"Sorry, I'm indeed troublesome person."
Yuu shrugged. He'd said all needed, no need for disguise testing again. He asked directly straightforward: "Also, don't tell me you think your precious daughter has no value making me treat her very seriously?"
"..."
Piercing cold air suddenly surged. No longer comparable to Ice Queen—this level, perhaps Ice Goddess?
In short, Yuu seemed to have made the mother angrier.
But since all happened, even making her angrier, she might not be angrier than finding her daughter's boyfriend is a playboy.
So be honest, Yuu now too lazy to care her feelings. He planned to say whatever he wanted.
Anyway, if truly wanting to oppose his relationship with Yukino, Saori had countless reasons. These rude words wouldn't make much difference.
Yuu stood indifferently in this snowstorm, but one girlfriend beside couldn't help worrying for him. She reached under table pinching his thigh, whispering head lowered:
"Why deliberately anger her? Mom still willing to sit here means chance to talk. If she gets angry and leaves because of this sentence..."
"Won't, relax." Yuu slightly helpless.
"Then do something to make me relax! You didn't even tell me about that plan. I'll demand later!" Yukino pouted dissatisfied. She patted his thigh like angry cat, voice slowly lowering.
"If possible, I don't want to be hostile with my mother either..."
"I told you, that's not a choice making you happy, so I won't." Yuu gently patted her hand, then raised head, staring at Saori whose face not softened at all.
"I overdid earlier. Forgive me." After sincere apology, he soon said again, "But your precious daughter you value, is also very important to me."
Saori raised brows. Fan opened covering lips. She put on ready-to-fault-find expression.
"Really, how important?"
Yuu answered without thinking: "Spring can't lack cherry blossoms, autumn can't lack maple leaves—that important."
"But cherry blossoms and maple leaves sooner or later wither."
"As long as spring still exists, autumn still exists, she still exists."
"Oh? Don't want your summer and winter?"
"Please give me time, to find her blooming most beautifully."
"The not beautifully blooming unwanted? The old not beautiful no longer sought?"
"Then, I can't run anymore either. Perfect to be buried with her."
"You have double suicide tendency? How to give her such security?"
"...When spring comes next year, I'll crawl out from soil. Must see the blooming, no matter how many times."
"Then your summer and winter let her alone? Say you seek her, but understand her loneliness in soil?"
Yuu's lip corners slightly twitched. He couldn't help staring at Saori casually swinging her hinoki wood fan, slightly smug.
He'd never seen someone loving literary debate this much!
Too lazy to continue debating with this mother, he directly threw ultimate move—
"But Madam, I'm cheating."
"So no matter spring, summer, autumn, or winter, there's someone else beside us!"
"..."
Her fan stopped mid-air. Saori slightly widened eyes. Truly shocked by Yuu's strange mindset and shameless answer.
(I know you might be shameless, but didn't expect this shameless!)
As for Yukino, she'd given up minding both from shame and helplessness. She just lowered her blushing white face, with Yuigahama, placing food before each.
"...Indeed, talkative men aren't trustworthy."
Saori closed fan. Her graceful smooth face calmed again. Speaking tone neither cold nor warm.
She suddenly turned, looking at the other daughter silent throughout, strangely quiet from start to end.
"Haruno, you say something too. Yukino poor at choosing people, insisting with playboy like this. You can't just let it be, right?"
"...Hmm?"
Called by mother, Haruno just snapped from reverie. Head left supporting palm.
She glanced mother and Yuu each, then around table. She propped head back on palm bored, staying lazy.
She murmured softly: "Completely different from imagined... Yuu-chan truly amazing. Small issue like this indeed can't stop him."
Was this Talk no Jutsu power? Or rational analysis flow victory?
Anyway, somehow, atmosphere among them no longer tense. Even someone already eating cake alone, acting as if earlier confrontation nothing.
The two moms supposed to attack Yuu relentlessly, now only her own struggling weakly, even seeking help from her... Truly making one not know where to complain.
What else, because Yuu is person easy to surprise, 100% surprise person.
Honestly, first time seeing her mother directly refuted. Haruno not only not shocked at all, even amused like watching good show.
Even from her mischievous nature, she wanted to say this to her birth mother:
"Yoo~ Mom, didn't you still want Yukino to break up with him? Why after he said few sentences and produced cheating plan, you immediately surrender? Where's your usual commanding authority and firmness~"
But her brain not broken. Such things of/ke enough thought in heart. She who also loves mother, never say disrespectful elder words.
"Hmm, say something, huh..."
Haruno narrowed eyes. Under beside hopeful urging gaze, she sighed soundlessly.
Now, mother wanted her to state stance and side with her, together condemn the annoying man preferring cheating over returning to ex-girlfriend always waiting.
No need hesitate what to do, right?
Fingers gently scratched between brows. Haruno half-closed eyes, clicking tongue indifferently: "First, if must say, your daughter herself initiated becoming third party."
Saori: "?"
"You didn't mishear. Dango first dated him. If not for that stupid Dango there proactively suggesting three-person relationship, he might not really cheat... His moral obsession and self-control far stronger than you imagine."
Saori: "??"
"Then, though I personally very hate playboys and flirts, this isn't first time we see, right? For example, isn't head of X family married three or four wives to give him sons? You're also used to accepting, never heard anyone gossip about their family at socialite salons, right?"
Saori: "..."
Haruno sighed strongly. She suddenly straightened, staring at stunned mother in seat.
"Frog wants swan meat, trash wants to hold two big thighs at once. Of course no one can accept such things. Mocking natural... But look at your daughter's boyfriend. Does he look like frog or trash? Neither. He even wrote cheating work plan, attached account amount ordinary people might never get lifetime."
Haruno shrugged, continuing calmly orderly: "Has talent and initiative. So what if slightly playboy? Not to mention very faithful. There's crazy girl named Natsukawa at school always bothering him. He just needs nod to sleep with her, but stubborn like rock, rejected many times... Isn't that better than nobles treating women as goods or child-producing machines?"
At her words pause, Saori finally couldn't hold. She spoke unbelieving, like writer suddenly betrayed by website:
"Haruno, what the hell..."
Not just her. Even Yuu and others hearing these words couldn't help staring shocked, as if first time knowing Haruno.
"Why? Strange I speak based on common sense? Or you think I can only argue with Yukino-chan and Yuu-chan? You all too much!"
Haruno puffed cheeks angry. She glanced each pretending fierce, then said annoyed:
"Indeed this situation. If Mom colder, more like big family head, not too caring daughter's personal happiness, think you'd care small thing like this? You'd definitely calculate how to maximize using Yuu-chan, know. Who cares who you cheat with... Such big reaction is strange."
"Me? You say I'm strange?"
Saori widened eyes pointing herself. She even forgot maintain calm graceful expression: "What strange about me? Yukino just seventeen. Isn't normal I don't want to hand her to jerk who cheats!?"
"I didn't say not normal. We like Mom like this~" Haruno hurried change words to soothe mother, then said, "But conversely, Yuu-chan also not strange, besides slightly jerk."
Saori frowned: "Why say so?"
After thinking momentarily, Haruno stared at Yuu. When eyes met, her soft lip corners couldn't help curving into arc.
She just thin smiled like that, without involving special emotions. She said casually:
"Born ordinary family, ordinary school, no background identity... Yet wants Yukinoshita family daughter to share boyfriend with another girl. Should be no one daring this bold, unless truly crazy, or arrogant must send to mental hospital."
"Morals ethics, common sense, matching marriage... All would be obstacles. Normally, he should give up, let go, make choice we think smart."
Haruno tilted head smiling. Familiar tone as usual, she asked him: "Then, why didn't you?"
Yuu unconsciously answered: "If I refused just because usually should, I'm sure I'd regret greatly."
"Because answer not obtained through own thinking, has no meaning."
To others, refusal here should refer to rejecting Yuigahama's three-person relationship proposal.
Only Yuu knew, he was talking about not rejecting Yuigahama's confession despite still in mission period.
That was answer he got after endless thinking and hard struggling. That was choice he'd never regret, no matter how many consequences he bore, whatever others said.
Its meaning was here.
"So that's it, you all act for your own reasons. Not strange and strange. That's all."
Withdrawing gaze from Yuu's face, Haruno spread hands, helplessly to mother: "These people all seventeen. Not dolls to order around. We can't control their thoughts... Rather than stand opposite side, better think more important things."
"More important what?" Fan even forgot to open. Saori asked reflexively.
Haruno showed mysterious smile.
Circle, number one, train passing tunnel—she made such hand gesture.
"Soul safety issue."
Everyone: "..."
"Why look at me like that? I'm not wrongly worried, right?" Facing their strange silent gazes without blushing, Haruno blinked pretending innocent, "Who told current high schoolers so free, like beasts in heat. So easy to shoot-shoot..."
"So, here, I suggest revoking Yukino-chan's alone living right, so she doesn't bring man home to stay someday!"
"Hah?! I won't do that—No!"
Halfway speaking, Yukino immediately reacted. She couldn't help frowning staring, showing embarrassed angry expression biting lips.
"Nee-san, you're doing this just for that purpose—!"
Haruno whistled, turning face away: "Sa~ What are you talking about? Big sister doesn't understand~"
"You still playing dumb..."
"Yukino, Haruno's right." Before she finished, mother's firm calm voice sounded with irresistible will.
"I may not control who you date, but that apartment is mine. I have right to order you move out... After Cultural Festival ends, pack your things, come home."
"Mother!" Living home or not wasn't point. Yukino's ears currently red hot, cheeks burning. She just wanted to quickly clear misunderstanding, "Don't listen to Nee-san's nonsense. She has hidden motives! I swear, I never thought to bring Tenkiji-kun home to stay..."
"Hidden motives? What motives could Haruno have?"
"This..."
"Yes, yes~ Gentle, kind, understanding big sister like me, what bad intent? I'm sad Yukino-chan suspects me, sob sob~"
"You... Hey, you there, why laughing? Funny, huh!? Yui, pinch him!"
"Roger! ...Pinch where?"
"Anyway not thigh. He won't hurt at all."
"Understood, then traditional soft waist fat... Eh? Yukinon, how do you know pinching Yuu-kun's thigh won't hurt him?"
"..."
Midday, Class 1-A bustling with coming going people. Cooked food and hot tea aroma filled air. Chatter heard endlessly.
Because close seat distances, if someone pricked ears, could hear next table conversation.
But in class back, one seven-person table naturally ignored by all. Its existence more obscure than back class calligraphy display.
No one turned there, no one interested in their talk contents. Even if almost hit by joking teen boys and girls, customers and butlers all passed without seeing, no one noticing oddity.
Under this Earless Wall premise, Yuu finally passed his first chaos, completing quite important life achievement.
「Said before two mothers I'll date both your daughters simultaneously, and successfully get their approval.」
Though far from optimistic approval, neither Saori nor Mama Yuigahama commented further on his cheating.
Perhaps thanks to girlfriends' firm conviction, or his sincerity (referring to dozens-page cheating plan) moved them, or Haruno's high arguments truly stabilized situation.
But anyway, at least Yuu passed mother-in-law hurdle, could continue dating Yuigahama and Yukino.
And in process, no one sacrificed... Oh, wait, he forgot to account Yukino's alone living right.
In short, this issue temporarily ended. Happy ending story. No better development than this!
Yuu secretly sighed relief. Seeing harmonious lunch time before him, couldn't help secretly smiling.
If missions never end, maybe not bad to marry them and truly build Tenkuji family...
What he wrote in plan was planning future together with both, assuming he'd never complete missions.
Because Yuu's love always wholehearted.
No matter if it'll disappear someday, as long as he likes now, he believes he'll continue liking in future.
Is this too faithful or just fear of loss, he doesn't know, nor wants deep analysis of his love tendency.
Enough to know what he strives for.
(So, in end, I still must complete missions.)
(Otherwise, first three efforts, first three separations, first three loves, all become worthless answer sheets.)
Yuu shook head. Gaze shifted, looking toward Haruno.
He always felt Haruno starting to plan something again—not as simple as revoking Yukino's alone living right, but something more important to her, something worth careful thought.
Not only that, her reactions very odd. As if past-present separated feelings gradually disappearing. When facing Haruno, he always unconsciously cared for her expressions, paying attention to her.
As for cause, perhaps only recent daily memory dreams?
Can say, one wave just subsided, another comes—No, should say before fully resolving this big system issue, he'll always ride waves up down, never time to calm.
Yuu sighed inwardly. Just wanting to reorganize feelings, he saw two small hands reach again under table.
One slender long, cold boneless, as if carved from best jade.
One warm soft, tiny delicate, like perfectly warm steamed bun.
They hung calmly by his sides. Owners chatting with opposite mothers as if nothing, as if not knowing where to put hands, so just placed where easy to reach.
He couldn't help narrowing eyes smiling. Yuu also straightened back. He pulled both small hands under table unknown to anyone, transferring body heat together with feelings.
This time, no longer afraid of ending, no longer afraid of separation.
Because they held his hands, he'd never be alone, no matter advance or retreat.
Every day from now, surely more beautiful than past...
With indescribable vibration, Yuu couldn't help sighing.
Next moment, Haruno suddenly slammed table standing. She pointed to hidden under table part, loudly truthfully to mother:
"Mom, they're secretly flirting before us! Yukino-chan's hand almost touching his thigh!"
"What?"
Saori's gaze directly sharpened. Fan covering lips, only sharp gaze coldly swept Yuu.
"You really bold, daring do such things before me..."
"..." His hands not even released yet. Yuu speechless. He could only lower head admitting fault.
Seeing the childish college student sitting full joy face, Yuu suddenly understood. Truly understood.
First thing for every beautiful day—is to completely stay away from Haruno's mischievous nature!
◆━⊰✧⊱━◆
During meal, Yuigahama secretly asked her mother.
"Mom, why only ask what do you think? I thought you'd be angrier."
"Angry? Why? No need, right?"
Fork gently poked spaghetti before her. Mama Yuigahama glanced smiling eyes, saying casually: "Though my daughter stupid, insisting share boyfriend with others, at least she found own happiness, and future rich husband candidate, right? Besides, not my boyfriend being shared, so why angry."
"Eh~ Hearing Mom say so makes me feel unvalued." Yuigahama pouted, saying mixed feelings, "Open-minded good, but accepting our three relationship so fast, gives illusion Mom lazy to manage me."
"Not illusion, stupid daughter. Since you cried all night in bed because of him, deliberately skipping school for it, I've been lazy managing your love life." Mama Yuigahama reached finger, smiling poking her puffed soft balloon-like cheek, "And with Saori there, me saying nothing is actually most valuing your choice."
"Eh? Why so?" Yuigahama blinked slightly confused.
"Analysis very simple."
Mama Yuigahama raised one finger, cleared throat, starting fluently explain.
"If Saori forcibly makes Yukino-chan and Yuu break up, then final winner is you. If Yukino-chan hostile with mother, I can also mediate, letting you get dominant position in this love war."
"If in end all happy, and Saori agrees your three relationship, I also no loss—anyway, no conflict with anyone. My daughter won't want elope from home, and she can get good impression from son-in-law. Most important, I can also get another smart, graceful, beautiful daughter~"
After finishing, under Yuigahama's stunned gaze, Mama Yuigahama puffed full chest, proudly laughing.
"How? This is housewife wisdom! As long as do nothing, let others advance, the one losing will never be you!"
"This has nothing to do with housewife!"
Before truly understanding what she said, Yuigahama couldn't help complaining so.