Sanshokuin Sumireko focused on her book; Hayashi Maki didn't press—he just smiled and kept looking at her.
His gaze settled on her flat chest, and he said earnestly:
"Wrapping yourself with bandages must feel suffocating. That's not good for your body."
Sumireko shot him a glare, cheeks tinged pink.
"That has nothing to do with you. And could you stop staring at me like that? It makes me uncomfortable."
"You're beautiful—of course I want to look. And my gaze isn't 'lecherous'; I'm just appreciating you normally."
Face set, she pushed up her glasses and said coolly, "Then go appreciate someone else. There are plenty of pretty girls at this academy, and you certainly aren't short on women."
"No, no—I am short. Anyone I set my eyes on, I don't want to let go."
Hayashi Maki's tone turned serious; his gaze firmed.
"Sumireko, how about letting me see the real you?"
"No, thanks. Since you've already figured out my disguise, you should also understand it's not for just anyone to see."
"But the more you won't show me, the more I want to pester you," Hayashi Maki said with a wicked grin.
"You're incorrigible, Hayashi Maki. A man that thick-skinned will be hated by girls," Sumireko sighed, offering the advice sincerely.
"Is that so? Funny—thick-skinned men get further and reap more benefits. I have zero intention of changing."
Sumireko was speechless. "Then I'll go."
Can't beat you—might as well avoid you.
Hayashi Maki's lips curled. "Finally ready to leave the library? How about we go to the academy's back hill? The view's great."
Sumireko twitched. "Why do you assume I'll go with you?"
"Because I'm thick-skinned. And shameless," he said, offering his hand. "Well? Coming, beautiful Sumireko?"
She let out a long breath. "Can I refuse?"
"You can. I'll respect your choice. But you know I'm persistent," he said calmly.
Biting her lip, she hesitated, then placed her small hand in his, letting him hold it.
"…Let's go take a look."
His smile deepened; he gave her hand a tug. With a little yelp, she fell into his arms—and in a blink, the scenery shifted.
When she came to, they were standing on a grassy slope behind the academy, high enough to take in the entire campus. A cool breeze swept past, clearing the mind.
Hayashi Maki sat on the grass and released her slim waist, relaxing as he looked out over the school.
Sumireko thought for a beat, then stood. She undid the tie on her braid; glossy black hair spilled in the wind. She removed her glasses—and a face more delicate and lovely than a top idol's appeared before Hayashi Maki.
He swallowed reflexively. He had to admit—Sumireko's looks rivaled Yukino's and Mahiru's. And most importantly—her figure.
Noticing him gulp, Sumireko clicked her tongue inwardly. Since he'd discovered her true face anyway, she might as well indulge him once. So many hadn't seen it; that he had must be fate.
She lifted her hands and undid the buttons on her uniform; she slid off the bindings. A sweep of snow-white skin and a deep, alluring line came into view—her flawless complexion and exquisite face seemed to glow.
In an instant, the "nondescript braided girl" transformed into a dazzling, mature bombshell—her explosive curves radiating temptation.
"Eek!"
With a squeak, she found herself pulled into his arms, blushing furiously.
"Wolf—what do you think you're doing?"
"Heh. You called me a wolf—what do you think?" he teased. "Sumireko, you're stunning."
She rolled her eyes, sitting on his lap, body trembling slightly. It was her first time being this close to a boy. Forced or not… she didn't exactly hate it. Maybe it was his aura—naughty as he looked, he was gentle, and he made her feel oddly safe.
"Don't you think this is too forward? We've only met a few times, and you're already like this," she scolded, thumping his chest.
He breathed in her scent and savored her softness, swallowing again as the "demon's fire" stirred.
"Maybe so—but I already understand you quite well. And I think you've looked into me too, haven't you?"
Head bowed, she gave a tiny nod. "…Yes. And I found out you're a total playboy. You've got the 'angel' Shiina, you're unclear with Miura, close with Yukinoshita, and you even made a move on Kirisu Mafuyu. And then there are… others…"
She ticked them off on her fingers, face growing colder.
Hayashi Maki just smiled and rested his chin on her fragrant shoulder.
"Don't forget to count yourself. You're on that list."
Sumireko pinched him. "Shameless! Admitting it so easily—and saying it out loud."
"Because I'm honest. With girls I've set my heart on, I can't bring myself to lie." He softened his tone. "Sumireko, can we be friends? Try spending time with me?"
"Do I get to refuse?" she asked, rolling her eyes.
"Nope. You're already in my arms—you can't escape."
"Then why even ask? You've decided; my opinion doesn't matter," she huffed—cheeks turning red as his hand at her waist misbehaved. Her breathing quickened. She'd never done this, but she was a girl who read—she knew enough.
"No—your opinion does matter. I may be shameless, but I respect girls' wishes." He added, a touch sheepish, "Sometimes I might go a little too far… I am a man faithful to my desires."
What could she say? She sighed and rested lightly against him.
"Don't go too far—or I'll start to hate you."
Since he'd found her out, and she couldn't really refuse, she might as well make it comfortable for herself. She didn't enjoy suffering for nothing. And the fact that so many girls liked him willingly proved he was capable. She didn't mind the sense of safety he gave her—after all, fear and insecurity were why she'd hidden her face and figure in the first place.
Hearing her condition, Hayashi Maki froze for a heartbeat, then set his hand quietly on her tummy and simply held her.
"Okay. I won't push. And you… try accepting me."
No extra moves. They sat together and shared a gentle afternoon.
~~~
Thank you for reading!