Faced with a gaze that could be akin to a lion eyeing its prey, I decided to stand my ground and not falter against it. My head may have been visited by silly thoughts but... I dont think I can afford to give a bad impression here.

I passed a hurdle when Fuyus mother told me that she respects her daughters decision, whatever it may be. But I doubt any father would like it if their daughter chose a menace like me. I mean, thats also why Elizabeths father kept on his act of being against me because he wants whats best for his daughter. Maybe if I also became a father to a girl in the future, Id be acting the same as them.

Good evening, uncle. Im sorry for coming this late in the night. I politely said before bowing slightly.

From what I heard from Akane, Fuyus father worked as an associate supervisor in a company based in our city. His standing might not be that high if compared to those at the top but its pretty much enough to give them a stable life.

Hes probably a few years senior to my parents but I think theyre acquainted at some point. Akane told me about it. He grew up in this city, after all. Its Fuyus mother who came from another place. They met each other during college and married each other when they graduated. They spent a few years without a child, maybe to be able to save enough for them. For sure, Auntie was also a career woman before but decided to quit and focus on being a housewife after they found stability.

Mhm. Youre as polite as Ive heard from Akane. Can you come closer? I cant see you quite clearly from here.

Although the words he uttered sounded like he didnt find me problematic, his tone and expression were showing the contrary.

Or maybe I was just overthinking it? Anyway, since he asked me to come closer, I should just follow it for now.

However, before I could even take a step, Fuyu who was next to me let out an exhausted sigh.

Dad, I told you. You shouldnt take off your eyeglasses even in our house. Youre squinting so hard that it looks like youre threatening Onoda-kun!

Huh?

Did I hear that right?

I glanced at Fuyu and found the girl holding her forehead. On the far side, Akane also looked like she was trying to hold back her laughter.

And Fubuki... The little girl stood up and went over somewhere. When she returned, she was holding onto a case; your typical eyeglass case, and handed it over to their father.

Here, Dad.

Oh! My little Fubuki. Thank you!

He grabbed it. Patted the little girls head and happily doted on her. Upon putting on his eyeglasses, his staunch expression seemingly relaxed. The pressure radiating from his body also disappeared as if it were merely an illusion.

And with his eyes clearing up, the fierce gaze from earlier was replaced by an amiable look of someone who seemed to be pleased with what he was seeing.

... Yeah. How stupid. I got bamboozled there. The only reason he looked that fierce was because of his nearsightedness... He had trouble seeing someone from afar. Hence, he wanted me to approach him closer.

No wonder...

Akane knew and she didnt tell me.

This was fun for her.

And looking at Fuyu, she probably had no idea that his father would show up here without his glasses.

Oh! I can see you now. Welcome, Onoda-kun. Dont be troubled. Even I wont let Akane go home alone at this late hour. Its great that you can come and pick her up.

With an embarrassed laugh, the middle-aged man scratched his head before focusing his sight on me again.

If earlier he looked like someone who could swallow his prey whole, he transformed into a goofy uncle whod happily invite you to a barbecue party during weekends.

He had that much positive energy that I couldnt help but rebuke myself for feeling that much pressure from him.

But then again, since this was the first time I was meeting him, I had no idea what to expect from him.

Eh... Thats not what you were saying earlier uncle. Youre offering to drive me home when you heard my dad is at home.

Urk... Dont out me like that, Akane-chan. I have no intention whatsoever to sneak out and have a drink with your father.

Akane playfully interjected, revealing something that made Fuyus father flinch instantly. He cautiously looked around him before muttering in a hushed voice.

However, a figure suddenly appeared behind him. Its Fuyus mother, carrying a tray filled with teapots, cups, and the donuts I brought.

Shes smiling through her eyes but I couldnt help but feel a chill radiating from her body even if its directed at her husband.

Ara... Did I hear a mischievous man making excuses? Dear, what did I tell you? No alcohol until your health comes back around.

Y-yes, dear. Like a man properly collared by his wife, he obediently nodded before lowering his head dejectedly...

This... Why do I feel like their relationship is the same with my parents? No. Even Akanes parents are the same... Theyre all that submissive to their wives.

The fierce uncle from earlier had two different transformations in the span of a minute.

Onoda-kun, I apologize on their behalf.

I heard Fuyu whispering at my side... She probably expected this but not to the extent that theyd be showing me the dynamics of their relationship.

From here, I once again introduced myself but this time, in front of the couple.

Just like my first visit, Fuyus mother took over the conversation but her father was also quite interested in me, or rather, Onoda Hirokis only son.

Right. Hes acquainted with my parents and hes even a drinking buddy of Akanes father. Its only natural for him to be curious.

In any case, it looks like Akane never told them yet that were living together. They only know that our houses are right next to each other. Thats why me, coming over to pick her up, is treated as normal by them.

However, given my previous encounter with Fuyus mother, she must've had an idea of how things really are between us. Shes just keeping her mouth shut. Maybe until Fuyu decides on the direction she wants to take.

Oho... You came here after your part-time job? Thats impressive. But arent you too young to work? You should rely on your parents more. While its reassuring to see my child becoming mature right away, one should never throw away their chance to enjoy their youth.

After a few minutes of conversing with them over tea and donuts, our topic moved over to this.

I dont know how this happened but at the moment, Im being sandwiched between Akane and Fuyu with Fubuki comfortably seated on my lap. As for the couple, theyre seated in front of us.

Shouldnt this be bad? Why is he fine seeing his daughters frolicking next to me? And why isnt he suspicious of how close I am to the girls?

Ugh... I dont know. But Auntie was definitely amused at this sight.

Uhm. Im actually doing this to figure out my path in life, uncle. Im trying different things at the moment. This part-

time job is only one such thing.

I see... But Onoda-kun, you didnt hear me clearly. I said you should enjoy your youth while you still can... Tell me. Looking at how close you are to them... Are you going after Akane or my daughter?

Alright. Ill take back what I said earlier. Its not that hes not bothered by this. Hes just finding the right moment to drop this bomb on me.

Is he asking me to choose here?