Upon hearing what I said, Edel promptly stopped in her steps and stood in front of me. Clearly not liking what she heard me say, I was met by her puffed-up cheeks and displeased eyes. She then grabbed the hem of my shirt and pressed her head on my chest while her arms remained at her side, shaking slightly.

Even at this moment, shes restraining herself from clinging to me. I had the urge to tell her that she should stop it when theres only the two of us but its not the time yet. Especially now that I blurted out something that I probably shouldnt.

At the moment, were still only a few steps away from the house. The first streetlight thats illuminating the road was still at a distance. Anyone who would pass from the adjacent street might mistake us for a ghost couple. Edels magnificent flowing silver hair would even reinforce that idea.

A moment later, Edels clear voice reached me.

I said that not to gain your sympathy. No wonder they always call you an idiot. Dont reach a conclusion by yourself, Ruki.

I see. So thats how she interpreted it. Well, anyone would think the same considering the circumstances but thats clearly not what happened.

You appeared so lonely, Edel. Those words flowed naturally along with the thought that I dont like seeing you that sad.

Here I was again, producing sweet words that might or might not strike the right chord. Its the truth anyway.

I mean, anyone sensitive enough to the other party would do the same if they saw them with that lonely expression.

Did I appear lonely? Her next words were just a repeat of what I said and clearly a question directed to herself. Most likely, since her focus lay elsewhere, she hadnt noticed making that face herself.

Still, that hint of nostalgia thats covered by that particular loneliness wasnt lying.

Its about her late father so its understandable that she would feel that way.

I see. Youre probably right, Ruki. Its been a long time since that day. Since he passed away Most of my memories about him are already blurry. Including what I just said If you didnt bring me outside tonight, who knows how long til I remember that?

Edel eventually gathered her thoughts and raised her head. With the same hint of loneliness as earlier, her lips stretched into a thin smile. Its not forced at all but at the very least, she probably didnt want me to worry further since that loneliness was brought about by the memory of her late father.

Honestly, its a little hard to believe that you havent gone out for years. But your face wasnt lying

I also calmed down my thoughts and raised her head. This time, to have a proper conversation with her about it. Also, to resume our walk.

However, before doing so, I lowered my head to kiss her. Edel saw it coming and welcomed it wholeheartedly.

One could call that taking advantage of the situation but for me, its just a needed transition out of the sullen atmosphere created by both of us.

Leaving that behind, I began guiding her through our quiet neighborhood, without any destination in mind. Well, be it day or night, this place was always this quiet.

Since that topic was already brought up, that became the focus of our conversation. I tried to dodge it as much as possible but as though the accompanying memory of it suddenly filled her mind, Edel eventually retold that experience with much enthusiasm. Forgetting the loneliness that she felt when she first brought it up, it became a lively story that brought a wonderful yet a little childish smile to her lips.

He must be a wonderful man, I commented after Edel finished with her story.

At this point, the girl was already hugging my arm again and we were on our way back to the house.

Yes. My mom fell in love with him despite the initial language barrier. And hed proven himself enough to get her hand in marriage.

Right. I could imagine the difficulty he faced. And then, they gave birth to you Uh I somehow want to express my gratitude to them. And also, to your grandmother. You wont be here with me if not for them.

This is what Haru said, right? Your glib tongue.

Although she first appeared surprised, the silver koalas melodic laughter echoed soon after.

Uh Maybe. But Im kinda serious about it.

I know you are serious Youre someone who seldom jests. I heard a lot from Haru, you know? Information about you that youre not aware of yourself.

Huh? Whats that? What information that Im not aware of?

I thought of blurting that out but I held back. Its not that I wasnt aware of such information. I only let them hold onto it. If I had to describe whatever Haruko told her, its like a list of my weaknesses or weak points. Theyre useless to others but for them, those were points that they could use to tease me.

Just like at this moment, seeing me put on a confused expression, Edels laughter continued gracing my ears.

And that lasted until we reached our house. To not wake up the others, the girl zipped her mouth and buried her face on my arm, her subdued giggles tickling me.

We didnt touch the subject of my confession earlier but at least, the walk we had was definitely productive. I got to know more about my adorable silver koala.

Not wanting to end the night yet, I had her sit down first before preparing a tea for us.

However, impatience got to her as she eventually joined me at the kitchen, clinging to my back like the koala she is.

She already removed the thick jacket so whats she was wearing this time was the same thin sleepwear.

I could feel her soft body pressing on me. Her fragrance also contested with the sweet aroma of the tea I was brewing.

I had to do my best to suppress the urge of dropping down what I was doing and just hold her in my arms.

And surely, the girl was aware of that as I started feeling ticklish at my nape. Even if I didnt look back, its definitely the touch of her lips.

Ruki Youre not jesting when you said you love me, right? I remember treating you poorly. Always hatefully glaring and running away every time you will show up Edel asked as her kisses moved from my nape to the side of my neck.

Since I already turned on the boiler, I stopped being passive at her attacks and faced her.

As it was a move that she failed to anticipate, Edel was caught in surprise as she quickly covered her face which had a slightly naughty expression as she showered my neck with kisses.

Ignoring that, I quickly moved to counterattack, focusing on her exposed neck. And while she was trying her best not to let out a single moan, I responded to her words.

Knowing your circumstances, I didnt see it like that. Besides, its natural to be afraid of me. You have every right to do so given what I showed you. And obviously, my love could be considered shallow since it got developed along with our every interaction. To satisfy your curiosity, lets say it started from the day I saw you up close

Upon hearing that, Edel reacted by meeting my gaze, her eyes seeking another confirmation. But with the way to her lips cleared, I went for it without a second thought.

In the duration until the pot boiled, I eagerly conveyed my now-unrestrained feelings for her.