Somebody walked into the bathroom! This is bad! I thought this place was closed down since it looked so run-down.
This couldn't get any worse; if they discovered me everything would turn into a nightmare. As soon as I realized it, I climbed onto the toilet—I hope they didn't hear me.
– It's strange to see a closed door, I wonder why, well I guess it must have closed by accident at some point… Is someone in there?!
This is bad, he's asking if there's someone inside. What should I do? Maybe if I stay quiet he won't pry… Ah!
He started knocking on the door, I have to act fast…
◇ Occupied!
Good! I think I can trick him! Not to brag, but I'm really good at acting and changing my voice.
– Occupied, huh?... But sir, why aren't your feet on the ground, why are you standing on the toilet?
Damn it! Did he really have to ask that? Don't look at those details, for God's sake!
– By the way, sir, have you seen anyone resembling Eris Karuizawa? Surely you've heard the name; she's the idol of the moment after all
What?! The rumor's already spreading! This could end badly—if he figures it out it'd be terrible, the place would fill up with people and I couldn't get away!
– I heard she hid somewhere in this park, but no one knows where. Sir? Are you alright?
Eh? What is he saying? Don't tell me he's planning to come in!
– Sir, answer me!
This is really bad! How is this possible? Is he doing this on purpose? What's going on!?
– I'm going to break the door down!
◇ Wait-, don't do it-!, um-, e-… —With no escape I didn't have time to deepen my voice.
This is the end for me…
– Come on, come out
Looks like my little adventure ends here, I would have at least liked to buy an ice cream.
– Looks like I found you, Eris-chan
What is he saying! He discovered me? Is he mocking me!?
◇ Damn, how dare you mock the future greatest idol of all time! That should be a crime for such audacity!
◇ Damn, how dare you mock the future greatest idol of all time! That should be a crime for such audacity!
If he apologizes there's not much left to complain about…
◇ That doesn't matter anymore, sigh now I need to get out of here before anyone finds me
Now my priority is getting back to my van, maybe I can text Albert to pick me up somehow…
– It's 10:30 right now, if you want to escape, you should hurry, because soon the park will get more crowded, and if even one person sees you, rumors will spread, making it impossible to leave unnoticed
Is he trying to help me?
◇ Mhhh, I understand… But there's something I'm worried about. You won't tell anyone you met me, right?
Can I trust him? Won't he do something weird afterwards?
– Well, I suppose I could keep quiet if you do me a small favor
A favor? Will he help me if I give him something in return?
◇ What kind of favor?
– I… —He tried to say something.
◇ You?…
– I'd like to take a photo with you!
I see, so that's what he wanted.
If a fan asks me for a photo I can't refuse, even more so if he wants to keep it secret; although I suspect he only wanted to help and said that so I wouldn't distrust him.
◇ Ahh, is that all you want? Then there's no problem. By the way, what's your name?
– It's Shido, Kurosaki Shido! I can't believe it! I actually thought you'd refuse!
◇ Of course I wouldn't refuse a request for a photo with a fan!
I suppose a photo of me smiling beside him will be enough.
– Here goescamera sound
Now he'll keep the secret, I just have to get out of here somehow…
– Hey —He called to get my attention.
◇ Yes?
– I didn't want a photo of that you, I wanted a photo of your true self
He wants a photo in which I'm not pretending? I thought he wanted a photo of the idol Eris…
◇ You want a photo of my true self? Mhh, I guess I can… But why do you prefer a photo that's not as good as the one you took?
– I'd like to take a photo that shows how you really are, not one where you're pretending. Photos are taken for different reasons, but I want to capture the essence of things, which is why I'd like to see a more natural expression —if possible, of course.
The essence of things, huh…
◇ No problem
I had never taken a photo where I didn't have to look flawless, this will be strange…
I hope I don't look bad…
– Alright! That's it!
◇ I'm glad that's over
– By the way, do you want me to help you get out without being seen?
He offered to help me, I might need some help…
◇ Would you really help me?
– Of course, I have nothing better to do anyway.
He seems excited to do something different from usual, it's comforting to be able to count on someone, but I don't know if that photo will be enough.
◇ Then I gladly accept your help
I've always found it hard to say thank you; I'm used to doing everything on my own, I've always been smart enough to achieve my ambitions without anyone's help.
Maybe it's time to try something different… After all this is an adventure, right?
– Eris-san—
◇ Just call me Eris
In Japan honorifics are common, but when it's not work-related I've always preferred just Eris.
– Alright, Eris… Mhh, what do you have in that bag?
He's surely thinking up a plan based on what I'm carrying, I can tell because he's been thoughtful like someone devising a strategy.
This could be exciting!
◇ Pepper spray, a teaser, combs, hair ties, my phone, ribbons, a notebook with a pen, my glasses, and a beret.
He looked like some ancient strategist.
He takes this very seriously; he's enjoying it way too much.
– I-I got it!!
◇ Wh-what, did you come up with a good idea?
– Yes, exactly. I thought you could pretend to be my little sister
My little sister?
◇ Your little sister?
– Yes, think about it, we're in a public park, it's not strange to see an older brother walking with his little sister! Also, if you add two pigtails to your look you'll pass as a little sister who goes unnoticed
This could go wrong for many reasons, but who cares? I'm the rising star destined to be immortalized in history! There's nothing I can't do!
I suppose I'll follow his plan and see if I can overcome this challenge of passing unnoticed by acting as his imouto.
◇ I guess that makes sense
An imouto is the embodiment of cuteness—childishness, innocence and also… affection toward her big brother! That's what an imouto is.
I have to visualize, understand and become one with the concept of little sister; that's how I'll pass this test—and complete the challenge…!
◇ Ahem. Onii-chan, could you buy me an ice cream please?
– Eh!? Wh-what are you d-doing? —I acted in a ridiculous and clumsy way (hehe)
◇ What did you think of my performance as Eris, "the perfect little sister"?
My acting skill is, without a doubt, unmatched!
– I guess that will do
Great! That will be more than enough.
◇ Then what are we waiting for. Let's go!
This is going to be fun…
As we walked along the park path, we agreed my alias would be Iris—uninspired, but I think it will work.
I wonder what kind of things I could do… Uh? Is that…?
Yes! That's an ice cream truck! I won't miss this chance to buy ice cream in public.
◇ Onii-chan, can you buy me a chocolate ice cream? I saw an ice cream truck and thought it would be a great idea to share our ice creams!
I haven't been out in public since I debuted as an idol. The fame I gained was greater than I expected and I didn't think I'd miss the simple things most people enjoy.
– Of course, Iris. Let's get an ice cream
I've always been somewhat isolated; my bodyguards are the only ones I can be myself with—they're my shield, my protection and also good people, so I feel a bit guilty for causing them trouble…
Eh? The man wants to give us the ice cream Shido was going to buy. That's very generous of him!
◇ Really, you're going to give my brother and me the ice cream for free, sir?!
"Of course! You two should enjoy life. Besides, you remind me of my grandchildren…"
◇ Sir! I promise I'll enjoy this ice cream to let you know your grandchildren would have too!
Good! I'm going to enjoy this ice cream as if it were the first meal after not eating for a week!
◇ Onii-chan, this ice cream is delicious! Do you want me to give you a bite?
I'll play my sister role a bit hehe. I'll make his heart explode with emotion!
He has next to him the most famous idol today—will he be able to handle this once-in-a-lifetime event?
– Eh?! Are you sure about that?
And now for the final blow!
◇ Yes, and in return… I'll try yours!
Oh, he's really holding up well, trying to be a decent brother. But he won't beat me! Here I go for my share of his ice cream!
◇ Mmm, delicious! It's so good, Onii-chan!
Mint ice cream doesn't taste bad at all!
Enjoying this ice cream made me realize people aren't suspecting us; only a few glances land on me for a moment—I think this adventure doesn't have to end once I finish my ice cream.
I think it can continue, so I'll try to convince Shido to keep going!
◇ I was thinking... maybe later we could go to an amusement park. What do you think?
I mustn't get complacent! Although Shido seems ordinary, he barely reacts to my looks and only gives in when I get close— I must attack with everything!
Special technique: Pure-Wish Eyes!
– Of course, we can have fun a little longer, I guess —Hesitant at first, but in the end accepting, I managed to sway Shido!
◇ I love you, Onii-chan! Thank you!
I think after having some more fun I'll return to my agency.
To make sure Shido doesn't worry, I'll text my agency telling them I'll go back later.
◇ Now we can have fun without worries, Onii-chan
Continuing to chat and almost finishing our ice cream, he told me about an amusement park nearby.
Now I can have fun! It was a unique opportunity that wouldn't repeat— I can't wait to ride a roller coaster!
◇ I'm so happy to go to the amusement park with you, Onii-chan!
On the way to the park I noticed people staring at us along the way.
I wonder what I could do to thank him for indulging my whim?
Maybe I can give him money when we get to my agency, or maybe… Mhh, maybe that would please him more? After all that is liked by all boys, right? Never mind, I'll do it!
– Ehhhhh?! Wha-, what are you — —A little flushed, I made him feel the press of my chest.
I had only done that before in an acting scene from a popular series in which I participated as a supporting character.
This is more embarrassing than I thought, but I can't waver—my perfect performance is unshakable!
◇ Onii-chan, what's wrong?
– Huh? N-nothing's wrong with me…
◇ Then let's go have fun together
Should I squeeze his arm all the way to the park? Or should I hold his hand cutely?
I can't decide! This is complicated.
Shido was initially stunned, but quickly adapted to the situation, showing the expression of a genuine and respectable older brother… though somewhat red-faced.
Time flies when I get excited; it makes my body restless and to counter the excitement, my subconscious makes me remember the past.
***
Since I was little it's always been easy for me to act, sing, dance, talk to others, lead people, learn any kind of knowledge or movement, the studies…
I speak five languages, I can pass different university exams, I've never lacked money because I know how to generate wealth. And even if that weren't the case, my parents would have supported me. I have never suffered in my entire life, it costs me nothing to play roles from a princess to a little sister.
It seems like God granted me perfect gifts; it was that way since my childhood, that time when everything felt new, and as if by magic, everything I liked to do I did impressively…
I don't know why this came to mind— is it a sign I should be thankful? I have no idea.
***
Pretending to be the perfect little sister, I notice we're already at the amusement park since I could spot large structures that made me focus on my surroundings.
– We're here, what do you want to do first?
Is this an amusement park…?
To hell with melancholy!
I've been waiting a long time to try all the attractions!
I even thought about renting an entire amusement park for myself when I had some free time.
◇ Onii-chan, what are you waiting for? Hurry up!
Eris and Shido enjoyed the park, ate from the stalls and rode a large number of attractions.
◇ Let's ride that one, Onii-chan, it looks fun!
– Yeah sure… it'll be fun… —Shido looked a bit down.
Apparently Shido doesn't like roller coasters, and he looked similar on other upside-down rides— but I don't regret it!
Sorry Shido, but I have to enjoy this to the fullest!
Once at the top, I'm ready for everything. It's time for the climax!
◇ Woohoo! Shidoo! How amazing~! —I had never been this excited before.
– Aaaaaaaah! —With tears in his eyes and a high voice Shido screamed wildly.
At the top of the roller coaster, the stars lit up Eris's eyes, while shadows wrapped around Shido.
I absolutely have to ride it again!
This has been wonderful; I wouldn't lie if I said it's one of the most fun days of my life!
Now that I think about it… I think this is the most excitement I've ever felt.
When I debuted as an idol for the first time I already knew everything would go perfectly—the song, the choreography, the costume and the expressions I planned to use; everything went as planned.
I quickly gained the fame I expected, even more than I expected; I was never nervous for a single second, I trusted my skills so much that I never thought about this.
Is there any other exciting moment in my life that isn't this?
I always saw my career as fruitful, I had no doubts I would do well, that I'd make a lot of money and enjoy most of my life doing what I wanted when I retired early…
That's the best option of all, or so I thought.
Maybe we should rest a bit, Shido and I, who may be a little agitated…
Or maybe I'm the one who's agitated.
◇ Onii-chan!
– Yes? What's up?
◇ Shall we ride the Ferris wheel?
The sun is setting, I really haven't had enough of this day.
How could I say goodbye to this day when my heart wants it to never end?
We're already inside the gondolas, but I still don't know how to face this ending.
In my whole life problems were foreign to me; they were predictable mishaps where I always found a solution.
Now I feel the weight of my actions, like a drug that once you try you can't stop consuming, but I'm not easy to corrupt.
I have a promising career and I want to leave my mark in history; I can't just abandon this desire and pretend to live as an ordinary person; I have an agency waiting for my return and bodyguards who will protect me no matter what…
I can't put more trouble on Shido, it's my duty to return and continue my life; the only thing I can do is remember this day fondly.
This is the solution to this problem…
Maybe Eris didn't fully grasp the weight of her thoughts; she didn't know they could have been a declaration of resignation from her own happiness.
◇ Hey, Shido… I really thank you for everything you did for me today. I can't remember the last time I had this much fun… —Not wanting to say goodbye I had to say it somehow.
It was like the world was about to destroy My World
– Don't worry, Eris, we're friends after everything that happened today, right? You don't have to thank me. —Without seeing her expression I heard his words that conveyed warmth.
I heard his honest and gentle words, I raised my head and I could see the most beautiful thing of all.
– You don't have to thank me
That's what he told me in the end; he had a smile that could shine brighter than the sun, I'd never seen something like it before, never in any of my performances did I see such an authentic smile; that says a lot, because I always thought I was the most skillful person at this in the whole world.
He conveyed something sincere to me, something unmodified, something that made me trust him blindly!
◇ Friends? We're friends…? Of course we are! Right?! —Unable to contain my excitement I nearly fell to the floor of the gondola crying and rolling with joy.
I can't believe it! Is Shido my first friend!?
This is the best day ever! Why was I so sad before?
Sure, as if that mattered!
Now I can enjoy this forever! For some reason, I think I'll find a solution that isn't inappropriate.
– That's right, Eris, now let's just enjoy the view —Trying to calm my smile Shido told me to enjoy the moment.
The Ferris wheel slowly reached its peak, revealing a splendid panorama.
I think I want to enjoy this a little more, I wonder if Shido would mind if I stayed at his house?
As long as I don't bother anyone and can sleep on a couch I'd be fine, I don't think there'd be a problem, right? You win by taking risks!
◇ Hey Onii-chan. Could I stay over at your house tonight? —I said Onii-chan out of habit, not to convince him.
I'd like to spend at least a day at Shido's house; I'm curious to know what his life is like.
– No problem, although… now that I think about it we'll be alone, my family is on a trip and for the moment I'm living alone in my house
Is that a yes? I'm not sure— but if he didn't refuse I'll take it as positive!
◇ Really!? I can stay at your house!? Fantastic!
Then I won't bother Shido's family, how convenient! I wonder what his house is like? What could we do? We could watch a movie! Or maybe…
Play something together!
I can't contain my excitement! Is that the stall where we ate at the park? I have to tell Shido! Also about that game where he almost screamed! The one where after we rode he had to rest on a bench!
I have to get closer! I was in front of him when we got on, now I'll move next to him to show him everything out the window!
Is this how life feels when you have a real friend? I think even the ants' walking would make me laugh! Hehe~
They stepped off the Ferris wheel and headed toward Shido's home. Calm silence reigned on their path to his house, broken only when they reached the door.
I can't believe I'll actually be able to enjoy this until the next day.
Shido stopped at a house that looked cozy and somewhat expensive; it was large and white.
◇ Is this your house, Shido? It's very big and pretty, by the way
– Yes, that's right. It has two floors and several rooms
Inside the house looked quite luxurious, making the façade seem like a way to go unnoticed; beautiful furniture, a large modern TV, a kitchen with utensils and a refrigerator that looked quite costly.
It's simply curious.
◇ Your house is so clean, Shido! I'm going to stretch a bit
It has a big living room, so I'll stretch after an intense day.
– It's amazing how flexible you are, Eris
◇ Of course I am. Who do you take me for! I'm an elite idol, I need to be flexible to perform the dances at my concerts
– Well. You can watch TV or play that game on the carpet, I'll prepare dinner, so make yourself at home
◇ Thank you so much, I hope I'm not too much trouble
– No problem, actually I'm excited that someone like you will try my cooking
It seems Shido is going to prepare something to eat.
He's very kind, surely tired after going on so many rides today, but he said he enjoyed doing it despite that.
I won't insist and I'll distract myself by playing the game on the floor.
While I played this game titled "High school love, total disaster" I realized it was a dating sim—does Shido like this kind of game?
I wasn't sure because I saw he only had one ending unlocked and five hours of playtime recorded.
I selected the idol route and started playing calmly; at some point Shido brought an omelette which I enjoyed while continuing to play.
The omelette was really tasty!
I didn't quite understand the appeal of this game since I just had to choose what to say and that was it.
Still I enjoyed it a lot since Shido accompanied me, but after two hours sleep began to take hold.
◇ Aaaahh… I'm so sleepy… Shido where could I sleep?
– Follow me. You can sleep in my sister's room and put on one of her pajamas to be more comfortable
So Shido has a sister, maybe that's why he seemed like a real older brother.
His sister's room is pretty ordinary, except it's very tidy and there's an enormous plush about 1.70 m tall sitting next to the bed.
I think I could make Shido breakfast when he wakes up, I could show him my cooking skills! Great, that's what I'll do!
◇ Good night, Shido!
– Good night, Eris, rest well
And so ends the day, and so the day ends… With an unforgettable day.
In the morning when Eris woke up she got to work and went straight to the kitchen to surprise Shido with breakfast.
I'm going to prepare sandwiches with cheese, ham, chicken and egg; and orange juice. I don't usually cook, but I don't think it will be that hard!
After some time Eris finished her improvised sandwiches.
For a first time preparing something they don't look bad at all! I'm sure Shido will love them! I'll wake him up.
◇ Shido~, wake up already! I prepared a meal made by me, the amazing Eris!
He looks somewhat disappointed upon waking, I think he was expecting something else for some reason.
– All right, I'll get up to eat now
I accompanied Shido to the dining room to present my dish!
◇ What do you think of my special dish, cheese, ham, chicken and egg sandwiches
– To be honest they look delicious; then… "Itadakimasu" —Without much surprise Shido praised my dishes (Even as a beginner sandwiches aren't a big deal)
I don't usually have breakfast with someone. I eat during breaks or when I'm traveling to my recordings.
Eating with someone makes me happy…
Maybe I won't have breakfast with Shido for a long time after this, but it won't make me sad!
I have to remember these moments! Anyway it's not in my plans to forget them, but maybe having a physical memory would be a good idea.
◇ Shido… I'd like to take a photo with you—
Would a photo be okay…? Shido asked me for one yesterday morning to have a keepsake that he crossed paths with me, so I'd like the same to have proof of our friendship.
– Of course
Really? That easy? What am I waiting for then!
◇ Then…! Here we go!
I think I'll frame this photo when I have time.
– Eh!? You already took it? I didn't even have time to look at the camera —With a confused expression Shido answered my sudden photo.
◇ Don't worry! The picture turned out perfect. And I can see your mouth wide open with no idea what's happening. Hehe
Hehe~
– Hey Eris, don't you think your team must be really worried about you… Running away for a day will surely cause you a lot of trouble
Why mentions that now?! Is he getting back at me for snapping his picture unannounced!?
◇ Wha—?! Wha-, wha-, what are you ta-, ta-, talking about— —Turning my gaze to the floor I ignored his comment.
– It was just a joke. Besides, it's not like you can turn back time and recover all this time, so don't regret your choice
It's obvious I don't regret it! Does he want to make me angry?
◇ I already know that! I regret nothing, dummy!
It's almost time to say goodbye, but first I have to find a way to stay in contact with Shido.
◇ I don't think I can stay much longer. I must continue with my career, so soon we'll part ways. That's why I want us to exchange numbers to stay in touch!
I need his number now that we're friends.
– Sure, that way we can talk if you feel like playing my little sister again
Eh!
◇ What are you saying! That was only because I wanted to have fun!
– Yes. I know —He smiled at me… That was intense.
After that conversation I changed into the clothes Shido's sister lent me so I could return them after I washed them.
We headed to my agency and it wasn't until we arrived that I revealed my true identity and stopped acting like a little sister.
Quickly my closest colleagues at the agency identified me and finally ended this.
◇ Hehe, see? I told you I was fine
I thought this adventure was over, I'll never forget what happened today!
While I was explaining the situation I glimpsed Shido trying to say goodbye quickly and leave without more.
How rude!
◇ Where do you think you're going, dummy
◇ I still haven't returned all the money you spent on me, plus I have to give you back your sister's clothes I'm wearing!
– I can come pick up the clothes later, but don't worry about the money—
What!?
◇ Idiot! I don't plan on not giving you anything in return! Albert, go get some money
"Yes, Eris-sama!"
I hope those bills are enough to satisfy Shido.
He says he can't accept so much money?
◇ I won't let you leave with nothing!
– But it's too much money!
After a discussion we agreed I'd give him thirty thousand yen; that seemed insufficient to me, but it was impossible for him to accept more.
◇ Are you sure you want so little?
– It's more than enough —He showed me that unfair smile that made me give up trying to persuade him.
◇ Then I suppose that's fine…
We both knew it was time to say goodbye.
– See you soon, Eris —He said casually, knowing that sooner or later we would see each other again.
I don't like goodbyes; the farewells I usually hear come from tragic and melancholy stories. Fortunately for me, I know this isn't one of those stories.
Besides, it's not goodbye; it's just see you soon.
◇ Goodbye, Shido
When Shido crossed the exit door, the first thing I did was think about how the next time we meet would be.
Is this how best friends feel when they part?
~Take care a lot, Shido~