Chapter 287: Komachi - Another Sister-in-law Candidate
Shopping with girls is like activating an infinite stamina cheat code – they seem completely unaffected by fatigue. Despite Hachiman's current constitution, the mere two to three hours felt physically untiring, yet mentally exhausting.
In contrast, Yumiko and Komachi appeared far from satisfied, as if they could continue shopping indefinitely.
Indeed, accompanying a girlfriend on a shopping spree is one of the most terrifying things in the world.
Back at the mall entrance, Komachi, looking at the clothes Yumiko had helped her pick, happily expressed her gratitude.
"Thank you, Yumiko-neesan."
Yumiko waved it off, "It's nothing. I needed to buy clothes too, so helping you choose was a good opportunity."
"Yumiko-neesan, your figure is amazing. I wonder if I can be like you." Komachi, looking at Yumiko's tall and slender figure, expressed some envy.
Confident in her own physique, Yumiko assured Komachi, "Don't worry, Komachi. You're still young, and there's room for development. Your figure will surely be great in the future."
"Really? Then I hope it turns out as good as you said, Yumiko-neesan."
Komachi's face lit up with a happy smile. Suddenly, she seemed to have an idea and glanced at Yumiko and then at Hachiman.
It appeared that Yumiko and Hachiman got along well, considering their joint participation in previous group activities. It felt like another candidate for a sister-in-law. Should she consider it?
Having made up her mind, Komachi spoke again.
"To thank you, Yumiko-neesan, for helping me choose clothes, why don't you come to my house for dinner today? I'll have Onii-chan cook for us."
She even shot a meaningful glance at Hachiman.
Observing Komachi's intentions, Hachiman understood what she had in mind. However, he went along with it.
"Absolutely, Yumiko. It's a rare occasion; let's have dinner at my place."
"Huh, this..."
Although Yumiko hesitated at their words, considering Hachiman's culinary skills, she couldn't help but agree.
"Well... alright, then. I appreciate it."
Seeing her agree, Komachi made a scissor gesture toward Hachiman.
"No trouble at all. Since it's just me and Onii-chan at home, having one more person for dinner will make it livelier."
She reached out to Yumiko, leading the way toward her house.
As for Hachiman, he found himself alone, carrying bags of various sizes, following the two.
In no time, the trio returned to the Hikigaya residence.
After placing the bags on the couch, Hachiman was about to take a break when Komachi, hands on hips, confidently spoke up.
"Onii-chan, now's not the time for you to rest. Hurry up and prepare the ingredients."
A mere Komachi, and she dared to boss him around like this.
Hachiman felt a bit annoyed, stood up, and gave Komachi a light tap on her forehead.
"Ouch, that hurts!"
Feeling the pain on her forehead, Komachi pouted in displeasure.
"Onii-chan, you're bullying your cutest sister."
Hearing this, Hachiman was left speechless.
You, who only knows how to boss around your big brother, aren't exactly the definition of cute.
Seeing him still sitting there, Komachi changed her approach.
She grabbed one of Hachiman's arms and started to act cute.
"Aww, Onii-chan, don't be mad. Komachi is sorry."
"Hurry up and cook, please. Both Yumiko-neesan and I are hungry."
"Onii-chan is the best."
"..."
In the end, Hachiman couldn't resist Komachi's pleading and reluctantly stood up, patting her forehead with a hint of helplessness.
"You really know how to make both good and bad people do your bidding. Sit and wait; I'll cook for you."
He glanced at Yumiko, who was still standing, and added, "Yumiko, please have a seat and rest. Leave dinner to me."
Seeing Hachiman finally agreeing to cook, Komachi flashed a victory sign behind his back.
Yumiko couldn't help but smile, feeling a mix of warmth and a hint of envy for the close bond between the siblings. Being an only child, she couldn't experience the feeling of having a brother or sister.
With these thoughts, she noticed Komachi sitting on the sofa, taking out a gaming console and waving at her.
"Yumiko-neesan, want to play games while waiting?"
Seeing the competitive game Komachi had, Yumiko confidently smiled.
"Sure, I'm quite skilled at this game."
"Hehe, I'm pretty good too." Komachi was equally confident.
"Then let's have a match." Yumiko grabbed a controller.
Komachi took the other one. "Bring it on, Yumiko-neesan."
While the two began their gaming showdown, Hachiman started preparing the meal in the kitchen. Glancing at the available ingredients in the fridge, he quickly decided on the menu.
Shortly after, the enticing aroma wafted from the kitchen to where Yumiko and Komachi were playing. Komachi's character was defeated by Yumiko's, and she complained, "Ugh, Yumiko-neesan, you cheated while I wasn't paying attention."
"Hehe, a win is a win. Komachi-chan, are you trying to back out of your defeat?" Yumiko smirked, putting down her controller.
"Ugh... let's play another round." Komachi looked determined.
At that moment, Hachiman walked out of the kitchen. "Stop playing; it's time for dinner. Wash up, both of you."
Hearing his words, Yumiko and Komachi put down their controllers and hurried to wash their hands.
"I'm digging in!"
The customary pre-meal declaration echoed, and the three of them picked up their chopsticks.
Stir-fried green peppers with pork, dry-fried shrimp, chicken and mushroom casserole, miso soup, and a side of vegetable salad.
Each dish emitted a tempting sheen under the soft glow of the lights.
...
After dinner, Yumiko expressed her gratitude and took her leave. Komachi seized the opportunity, insisting that Hachiman escort Yumiko home. Hachiman didn't refuse.
They walked through the quiet residential area and reached the bustling commercial street. Despite the nighttime setting in, pedestrians continued their brisk pace, and the street remained lively.
Observing the people passing by, Hachiman contemplated for a moment and reached out, gently taking Yumiko's delicate hand.
The girl offered only mild resistance, allowing him to lead the way.