With that, my dates with Shiori and Hikari have come to an end. I know, I know—it felt a bit rushed and maybe too simple. But let's be honest, even stories need to wrap up at some point. You've seen it coming, haven't you? The end of this tale is near, and even the writer is probably running out of coffee by now.
So here we are, as the title suggests—time for the final date: Kaori-senpai. What kind of date will it be? Honestly, I don't even know yet. If you're expecting something extravagant, don't. This is me we're talking about—things never go as planned, do they?
Anyway, I'll leave it to you to enjoy the ride—or in this case, the date. Let's dive in before the writer decides to throw in some last-minute drama.
[Sport Date with Kaori]
Pant! Pant!
Once again, I find myself gasping for breath. This seems to be my default state whenever I'm around Kaori. And, as usual, it's sports-related. This time, we're at the gym.
Kaori recently decided she's interested in "getting ripped." I mean, Kaori with muscles? That's... something. Definitely a good thing, right? A strong and toned Kaori is quite the sight to imagine.
"Toru, that's all you can lift? You're making me feel sorry for you," she teased, her voice dripping with playful sarcasm.
I glanced at the barbell in front of me, stacked at 220 lbs. Honestly, I thought that was impressive for a first-timer like me. But apparently, not for my "senpai" here. Kaori just benched 550 lbs like it was nothing. Yes, 550!
Even the seasoned gym-goers were staring, jaws practically on the floor. Turns out, Kaori's a regular here. She's been secretly training, aiming for a balanced, athletic physique. She doesn't want "massive" muscles, as she put it, just strength and definition in her arms, thighs, and... well, a few other areas.
I thought this was supposed to be a "gym date," but with Kaori's athletic streak, we've been doing back-to-back exercises. After the gym session, she casually suggested a 10-kilometer run, followed by 100 squats, 100 push-ups, and 100 sit-ups. Yeah, you probably guessed it—she's been inspired by a certain bald hero's workout routine.
Despite the grueling day, I couldn't complain. Seeing Kaori genuinely happy and in her element made it all worth it.
Finally, we wrapped up the session with a snack to replenish our energy. As we sat together, enjoying the much-needed break, she turned to me with a mischievous smile.
"Thanks for hanging out with me today, Toru. Even though it was supposed to be a date, I bet this isn't exactly your idea of fun."
"Nah, it's fine," I replied, brushing off her concern. "It's your way of having fun, right? As long as you're happy, I don't mind what kind of date it is."
Kaori's expression softened, a rare moment of vulnerability shining through her usual confidence. "You're really kind, Toru. You've been having dates with each of us to 'make up' for everything, even though we never asked you to. Aren't you tired of dealing with us?"
"It's fine," I said earnestly, meeting her gaze. "As long as the people I care about are happy, a little exhaustion is no big deal. Like I always say, I never regret having you all in my life."
Her smile widened as she reached out, her fingers gently brushing against my cheek.
"You know, Toru, sports are one of my favorite things," she murmured. "But do you know what I love even more?" She tilted her head, her playful tone returning.
"What's that?" I asked, my heart racing slightly.
"You," she said softly, her voice full of warmth. "More than all the stuff I like. I love you, Toru."
I froze, my face flushing. For a moment, words escaped me.
"Thanks, Kaori," I finally managed to say. "I love you too... well, as much as the others," I added quickly, trying to play it safe.
"Ara~" She laughed, a teasing glint in her eyes. "Playing it safe, huh? Good. No favoritism. Smart boy."
With that, we finished our snack and headed home after one of the most exhausting—but rewarding—days I've had in a while.
[College Date with Tachibana]
After a long wait, we've finally advanced another step in our lives. Shiori, Hikari, and I are now second-year students, Kaori has become a third-year, and Tachibana? She's moved on to medical school.
Before the new term begins, the girls insisted I spend one last day with Tachibana—a sort of "farewell date." Though in truth, it felt more like accompanying her to her entrance ceremony. As for Hikari, her due date is just two weeks away, so she's registered at the labor ward instead of returning to classes.
Our school, Ipputasai Gakuen, stood as a blend of traditional and modern architecture. The old main building, with its arched windows and ivy-covered walls, was a testament to its decades-long history. The newer annex, a sleek, glass-paneled structure, reflected the sun's rays, symbolizing a bright future. The quad was buzzing with energy as students rushed to and fro, carrying bags filled with new textbooks and supplies.
After seeing off the girls, I began the walk to Tachibana's college with her. The spring breeze carried the scent of cherry blossoms, and petals swirled around us, painting the path in soft pinks and whites.
"So, looks like a new year has begun, huh? Congrats, Toru," she said, her voice as calm and composed as always.
"Meh, it's not a big deal. Even my parents congratulated me. My mom's ridiculously excited about meeting all her daughters-in-law, and my dad? He can't stop talking about meeting his first grandchild."
Tachibana chuckled softly, her lips curving into a familiar, warm smile.
"Seems like they never change, huh?"
"Tell me about it," I sighed. "But what they didn't expect was that you'd be one of them. My mom's adored you since we were kids."
"Basically, I've always been the 'legal' one, huh?" She laughed, a teasing lilt in her voice.
Her laughter was contagious, and I found myself smiling as well. The walk to Asahikawa Medical University felt shorter with her by my side.
When we arrived, the college campus was breathtaking. A sprawling, modern facility with pristine white buildings that seemed to glow under the sunlight. The main building bore a large insignia of the university, its stone steps flanked by carefully trimmed hedges. Students in white lab coats walked with purpose, and the air carried a sense of ambition and promise.
As we stood at the gates, I glanced at Tachibana. "So, this is where you're going to spend the next few years saving lives, huh?"
She nodded, her expression softening. "Yeah. It's a little daunting, but I'm ready."
I grinned. "You've got this. After all, you've been putting up with me for years. How hard can med school be?"
She rolled her eyes but smiled nonetheless. "Thanks, Toru."
The two of us stood there for a moment, taking in the sight of her new beginning, before stepping through the gates together.
hen, we waved to each other. Just as I turned to head back, Tachibana suddenly grabbed my tie, pulling me close, and kissed me on the lips. It wasn't unpleasant—but in front of everyone?
"Tachibana? What are you doing? In front of people—" I began, but she silenced me with a finger to my lips, smirking.
"Let's just say I'm 'taken,' okay?"
"So, I'm just a safe play, huh?" I teased, raising an eyebrow.
"Of course," she giggled, her confidence unwavering. "I can't have my first lover getting jealous." With that, she turned and walked into the university, leaving me momentarily speechless.
Even though our education paths would keep us apart during the day, our home stayed the same. "See you at home, Isami!" I called after her.
She glanced back, her voice light but full of warmth. "Sure! Love you, Toru!"
I waved, then started walking toward my school. It was funny to think how we started as just random people brought together by chance. Through hardships, friendship, and more, we'd become a family. Hikari, Shiori, Kaori, and lastly, Isami. They weren't just friends and lovers—they were my precious ones.
Looking up, I smiled softly to myself before continuing on my way.