Chiba Prefecture received several invitations from the families hosting the banquet. The invitation that Hikigaya Hachiman received was undoubtedly from the Yukinoshita family.
Last year's invitation served as his ticket to the event, but this year's invitation was merely a formality. This time, Hikigaya would be taking the Yukinoshita family's car to the venue, so no one would check his invitation.
"Hikigaya-kun, how about our family's car picking you up at 3 PM?"
On December 29th, Hikigaya received a call from Haruno.
"3 PM... Senior, isn't that a bit too early? I remember the banquet last year didn't officially start until 6 PM, right?"
Hikigaya was confused. Why was Haruno picking him up so early? Was she planning to take him to help set up the venue?
"Yes, junior, the banquet will indeed start at 6 PM, just like in previous years. But the place where I will pick you up in the afternoon is not the venue; it's... my home."
Haruno seemed determined when she answered.
"…Senior, do you mean at Yukinoshita's house?"
This was more than Hikigaya had imagined.
"That's right, junior. My parents have always wanted to meet you and thank you for what you did to convince Yukino last year."
"Ah... about that. It feels like ages ago. If you hadn't mentioned it, I would have forgotten. It was just a minor thing."
Hikigaya's forgetfulness wasn't really that; he simply preferred not to dwell on such matters. If someone brought it up, he could recall the details.
"Of course, junior. You're now quite a notable person in Chiba Prefecture. It's not easy for our family to ask to meet you. This opportunity is special since it's the end of the year…"
As Haruno continued speaking, her voice grew softer.
"Stop, stop, stop, senior sister. I didn't say I wouldn't go. Your approach is a bit too pushy, but it works for me. I just can't handle hearing this."
Seeing that she was about to play the victim and praise him, Hikigaya quickly interrupted her.
"Well, it's settled then. Our car will arrive at your doorstep at 3 PM. By the way, Yukino and I have some things to do and won't be in the car. You'll have the spacious back seat all to yourself. We'll be waiting for you at home."
Haruno's voice became lively, and after a few quick remarks, she ended the call.
"This is so sudden... I don't even have time to prepare any gifts."
Hikigaya complained. He couldn't find any shops open when he went out. While he had been invited to visit someone, it wasn't in his character to show up empty-handed.
"A collector's edition of the novel?"
Hikigaya had received five copies of "Malice" from the publisher, which would be released in limited quantities alongside the TV series. This edition had a hardcover and was quite heavy. The Yukinoshita family didn't need anything extravagant, so it made sense for the author to gift them his own work.
"That should be sincere enough."
Hikigaya took out four of the five books and wrapped them up.
When it came to dressing up, Hikigaya wanted to avoid looking as mature as he did the previous year. He asked his mother to tidy up his hair so it wouldn't look messy and used some hair wax to style it.
He was particularly particular about his clothes. He wore a winter kimono with a light brown outer robe adorned with black stripes, a red inner robe featuring a black background and a silver chain, and a golden waistband, along with a black scarf tied around his neck with the front tucked into the inner robe. Finally, he donned the essential piece of Hikigaya Hachiman's transformation: glasses.
This outfit was inspired by a famous mystery writer from his past life and is quite traditional. Additionally, because the kimono was loose, it allowed for easier movement and sitting, unlike a restrictive suit.
"Wow, brother! I have to say, you have completely captivated Komachi with this outfit. This is the first time I've seen you dressed like this."
Hikigaya Komachi walked around her brother, admiring him closely and occasionally adjusting the parts of the kimono.
"That's great, Komachi. I totally trust your sense of style," Hachiman said proudly.
"Hachiman, the only issue with your outfit is that it's a bit too thin. If you exercise and build yourself up a bit, you'll look even more handsome," Mrs. Hikigaya pointed out. Hachiman had previously established a fitness plan, but he had put it on hold because he felt too exhausted from studying, and he planned to resume it after the entrance exams.
"Hachiman, you look like a true literary talent in this attire. Last year, you looked just like an ordinary rich kid in your suit and slicked-back hair. It didn't showcase how special you are," Mr. Hikigaya complimented Hachiman's new look. However, his comment upset Mrs. Hikigaya, as she was the one who helped Hachiman dress last year.
"I must say, as a father who has never paid much attention to his son's appearance, what qualifies you to criticize the image I worked hard to create for him? My plan was perfectly appropriate for that occasion," Mrs. Hikigaya responded sharply to her husband.
"Our son is just a junior high school boy; why should he dress so elaborately? Besides, Hachiman has inherited my excellent genes, so he has a good foundation," Mr. Hikigaya retorted, though he sounded a bit uncertain.
"Even with ten billion yen, you're still seen as a nouveau riche by others," Mrs. Hikigaya said, exasperated with her husband's comments.
"I think everything is fine, Mom and Dad. They'll be picking me up soon, so I should get ready to go out," Hachiman said as the clock neared three o'clock in the afternoon.
"Hachiman, listen to your mother. If you find yourself attracted to a daughter from a prominent family in this situation, you need to be careful. Your current status as a writer makes you a target for many families, so don't let yourself be lured into marrying into any family," Mrs. Hikigaya expressed her biggest concern. She didn't want her son, who had already found success in his career, to potentially marry into another family.
"Don't worry, Mom. I will keep working hard until I become wealthy myself," Hachiman replied firmly.
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