Shizu getting along too well with my mother might be surprising but quite understandable if I think about it properly.

In a way, Shizus trait was the most similar to her. Not counting her possessiveness, the girl was also hiding her true nature under a mask.

Back during their school days and even now, as a housewife, my mother was still donning a mask that could make her appear truly harmless. In fact, no one would ever think that shes an expert unless they saw her in action.

Whatever they discussed while I was away, it probably concerned how Shizu wanted to keep waiting until she became my only one. No matter how long it was.

Well, I didnt ask her about it. Its enough to know that the fear or nervousness she felt earlier was now gone. Shes even looking up to my mother as though shes her role model.

As for my father, he probably only provided some kind of support at the side.

With our business at the Ministry done, we didnt overdue our stay.

As we walked back to the parking lot, my mother and Hayashi-sensei walked side by side while my father was trying his best to act oblivious lest he once again summons the ire of his wife.

Sayuri, youre a terrifying woman. Hayashi-sensei sighed helplessly. Although that sounds like shes trying to start something with my mother, the tone of her voice sounded tired and dreary.

She then sneaked a glance at my father before shaking her head in defeat.

Hmm? What are you talking about, Makiko? How can I be terrifying?

My mother only tilted her head as though she didnt notice all that. If shes an actress, shed probably receive a lot of acting awards for how flawless she did it.

Forget it. Its just me mumbling my defeat.

Ara? Are you saying youre giving up? Thats not like you, Makiko.

What else can I do when youre not giving an inch? Besides, Hiroki is properly collared with you. Im just holding onto some youthful dream.

Hayashi My father tried to say something but he gulped his words down. Its not because my mother prevented him but because of Hayashi-senseis expression.

Like she told me earlier, shes already thinking of moving on. Although that sounded like a decision she made on the fly, she probably just accepted the reality.

Took her so long though

But I guess its my moms fault why she hadnt given up early on.

Anyway, are you two leaving again? Erasing the solemn mood that started to permeate, Hayashi-sensei changed the topic.

Not yet. Well be staying in the country for a good while. My mom didnt mind the change of topic, in fact, she welcomed it. What do you think about us hanging out again? Like good old times. Oh, and I will bring Akemi.

What are you Ive never been close to the two of you. I was your rival!

Yes, you are. However, Makiko, theres not much difference between a rival and a friend. It can so easily flip. So, lets flip that today, what do you say?

Ill think about it!

Sure My mother smiled mysteriously before sending a wink to me. Whatever that means, I had no idea. And I had no energy to guess. Hearing that conversation, my mother was trying to change the dynamics of their relationship As for her reason, either she wanted to truly befriend Hayashi-sensei or she had an ulterior motive. Or maybe both.

Arriving at the parking lot, Shizu, who was stuck to my side, looked up at me, perhaps wondering which one wed ride on; Hayashi-senseis car or my parents.

Shes also listening to their conversation and surely, she also picked up the mood that went from something crazy to a calm sea.

Mom, will you give us a ride?

Oh? Youre not going back with Makiko?

Well, we can go whichever. But I thought you

Alright then. Shizu-chan, do you want to have dinner with us?

Yes, gladly! Shizu answered instantly before turning to Hayashi-sensei who just waved her hand, answering without even hearing what the girl was about to say and entered her car.

Why dont you join us as well, Makiko?

Im good. Take care of my adorable Student Council President.

With that, Hayashi-sensei drove off with her car first. Unlike earlier, she looked really lonely when I took a glance at her from her car window.

Thats normal... Its already a wonder she hadnt cried yet. She seems so serious about my father. And now, shes giving up or shes just accepting the reality. Who knows? Shes not a teenager anymore and adults are more mature. Shed probably be the same mysterious school director come Monday.

Although the invitation sounded like we were eating out, my father drove the car to our house. And right there, Miwa-nee and Akane waited for us and had already prepared our dinner.

Apparently, my mom already predicted that Shizus coming with us so she messaged the two women, preparing more than usual.

Even though its not her first time coming to our house, Shizu still found it nerve-wracking. Back then almost all of them gathered so she was kinda at ease but today, she entered Akane and Miwa-nees territory alone with only my presence as her shield. Hers was the Student Council Room. She probably felt like a lone soldier sieging an impregnable fortress.

In any case, seeing her uneasiness, Akane welcomed her with the same gentle smile and pulled her from me while I helped Miwa-nee prepare the table.

My parents quickly went to find Minoru. And likewise, the boy happily jumped into their arms and let them spoil him.

What a carefree child

Halfway through our dinner, Shizus nervousness already disappeared. She returned to her normal self as she conversed with everyone.

Even though we failed to have our first date today, meeting my parents and even eating with us here satisfied the girl a lot.

My parents wanted to send her home instead of letting her commute but before doing so, they wanted to rest for a while. And due to that, we got a little time for ourselves.

Along with Akane, I brought Shizu upstairs, touring her in the house.

However, as soon as we entered our bedroom The two seemed to suddenly enter into a competitive atmosphere

They both grabbed my arms and pulled me with them onto the bed.

Thank you for always warming this bed, Akane. Soon enough, I will become the one accompanying Ruki here every night.

Is that so? Too bad. Your soon enough will possibly not arrive.

What has gotten with the two of you? I couldnt help but ask before sparks started flying off their eyes.

Oh? Its like this husband. I accepted Shizus challenge.

What challenge?

A challenge concerning who will be marrying you first. In two years, Ill be doing it my all to change your mind.

Shizu answered my question and as soon as she did, she turned my head to her side and kissed me intimately.

Bring it on. I have the advantage. I've been with him ever since we were toddlers. If not for his desire, there would be no you.

Not wanting to lose, Akane took the chance wherein we gasped for breath to turn my head to her, locking our lips deeply.

Obviously, Shizu wouldnt just back down. Still looking back at the past, I see. Dont worry, Im only looking at the future. Ruki will choose me in the end.

In your dreams!

And so, the two continued that until they got tired. Once they did, I pulled the two closer and declared, Ill be marrying the two of you. Theres no need to compete about who goes first.

But upon hearing that, the two girls facepalmed in sync, There we go. Our hopeless idiot.