After dinner, Hiroyuki didn't forget to bring up his idea.
"Would you like to go to view the cherry blossoms with me this year?"
Jiro smiled, "I would like it very much."
"There is a great spot near here. I've never been there before, but I walk by it every day when heading to work." Hiroyuki suggested a nearby park. The park was small, created only to increase the property value in the area.
Thinking about the cherry blossom viewing, Jiro imagined all the things they would need to bring. From a blanket for sitting on to food and beverages.
"Then should we pack our own bento box or order a premade one?" Recently, because of Jiro's income, they bought premade bento boxes more often when Hiroyuki returned late from work.
"I think we should make our own. It's more authentic if we do it this way."
Jiro agreed. "I can help you."
"How?" Hiroyuki teased. They both knew Jiro didn't know how to cook.
"I can help pack the food."
"Oh yes," Hiroyuki smiled as he reached out to gently rub Jiro's stomach. "You can pack it in here."
Jiro's face stiffened.
"I'm sorry," Hiroyuki said right away. "I was just being silly. I didn't mean to offend you."
Jiro shook his head. His ears turned bright red. Jiro was more sensitive than usual.
"Are you feeling well?" Hiroyuki asked. "Your face is turning red."
"I just need to use the bathroom," Jiro answered as an excuse. Then he shot out of his seat and into the bathroom.
As he closed the door behind him, he wondered if Hiroyuki had discovered the truth. But he shouldn't know right? Hiroyuki isn't like him. He wouldn't think it was a strange reaction. No, he definitely couldn't tell.
Even after leaving the bathroom, Jiro kept wondering about the situation earlier. He was worried, so he kept quiet and sat a bit further away from Hiroyuki while they watched a movie together.
Then at bedtime, Jiro turned to face the wall, while he slept.
In the future, he would have to be more careful. If he wasn't, wouldn't Hiroyuki discover his secret? Jiro foolishly fretted for most of the night. He didn't know Hiroyuki was sleeping peacefully next to him, not having a single clue.