After finishing his call, Kanade stood by the window for a while, letting the cool night breeze clear his mind. When he finally turned back toward his room, a mix of anticipation and dread churned in his chest.
She's definitely not going to let this go, he thought grimly. Especially after that… thing fell out of my pocket earlier.
But staying outside all night wasn't an option. The chill was biting, and all his belongings were still in the room. No matter how much he feared whatever mischief awaited, he had to return.
With slow, deliberate steps, Kanade approached his room like a man walking to the gallows. He opened the door cautiously, bracing for impact.
To his surprise, nothing happened.
No teasing remarks, no strange surprises.
Relief washed over him—maybe she'd fallen asleep? But just as he began to relax, he noticed the blanket shift. From under the covers, a drowsy-looking Utaha propped herself up on one elbow, rubbing her eyes with the other hand.
"Ah, you're back, junior? Hurry up and get in bed. Staying up late isn't good for your health…"
"…"
You're the last person qualified to say that!
Utaha's work habits were notoriously erratic. When inspiration struck, she'd throw herself into writing with relentless fervor, often pulling all-nighters. On the flip side, when the muse evaded her, she'd laze around endlessly, claiming it was part of her "creative process."
And she's telling me to take care of my health? Kanade thought bitterly.
His instincts screamed that this was part of a larger scheme. Maybe her sleepy demeanor was just a ploy to lower his guard. Perhaps she wanted to lull him into a false sense of security before striking.
"Thanks for the concern, but I'm not tired yet," Kanade said flatly. "You go ahead. I'll play on my phone for a bit."
To sell the excuse, he unlocked his phone and let its screen illuminate his face, emphasizing his point.
Utaha yawned and snuggled back under the blanket. "Alright, but turn off the light, will you? It's too bright."
"…"
She's good, Kanade thought, his suspicion deepening. Too good. She's luring me into a trap.
Still, he couldn't refuse such a normal request without seeming rude. Sighing, he got up and switched off the lights.
The room plunged into darkness, the only illumination coming from the faint moonlight filtering through the curtains.
Kanade hesitated by the futon. He didn't trust her apparent calm. Instead of lying down, he sat cross-legged nearby, his gaze drifting to the starry night sky visible through the window.
The room grew quiet, save for the rhythmic sound of Utaha's breathing. She seemed… genuinely asleep.
"…"
Kanade's shoulders began to relax.
The silence of the night was tranquil, yet oddly oppressive. Alone with his thoughts, Kanade couldn't help but reflect on how far he'd come.
I used to think solitude was all there was for me, he mused. But since coming to this world, everything's changed. I have friends, purpose, and a reason to look forward to tomorrow. Life feels... full.
He glanced over at Utaha's peaceful form. Her face was serene, her breathing steady.
"…So beautiful," he whispered.
Turning back to the window, Kanade murmured under his breath, "This world is wonderful, isn't it? The moonlight, the breeze… It makes me glad to be here."
After a pause, he added softly, "So, Utaha-senpai, let's just stay as good friends, alright?"
No response came.
Curious, Kanade leaned closer, studying her face. Her features were relaxed, her expression utterly tranquil. Even the way she occasionally wrinkled her nose or smacked her lips seemed natural.
She's definitely asleep, Kanade concluded with relief.
Slowly, carefully, he crawled to the edge of the futon and began easing himself under the blanket.
Finally…
He moved as stealthily as possible, every motion deliberate and calculated to avoid making noise. When he finally settled in, he let out a quiet sigh of relief.
But just as he began to relax, the silence was broken by a soft rustle.
Kanade froze.
Utaha shifted, rolling onto her side to face him. Her eyes opened, and her gaze locked onto his.
Her expression was calm yet mischievous, her voice low and teasing as she said, "Still awake, junior? What's the matter? Could it be… you're expecting something to happen?"
"…"
Kanade's heart sank.
I knew it. I knew she was up to something!