Lunch that day was in the school cafeteria.
During the meal, Ichin didn't teach his two classmates any "methods" for chasing girls. Their problem wasn't strategy at all—it was that they didn't even know how to hold a proper conversation with one.
So instead of lofty techniques, Ichin gave them some advice on communication basics first.
After eating, the three chatted a bit more before heading off to their afternoon classes. Their schedule was still packed today. Although the lectures were mostly theoretical knowledge, students with no prior exposure still needed time to adjust.
For Ichin, however, it wasn't difficult. He already understood most of the material. Listening once in class was enough.
So during breaks, besides chatting with Utaha, he also used his phone to stay in touch with the company—checking on Persona's ongoing bug fixes and Hazuki's progress with the new project plan.
Among the class, Ichin had become the most eye-catching student in just two days.
Though he tried to stay low-key, his looks drew attention. Yesterday, Utaha's appearance had only intensified it. Now, whenever he walked into the classroom, many classmates couldn't help but take notice.
Luckily, the class was mostly male. With fewer girls around, he didn't have to worry about being swarmed by admirers—something Ichin truly didn't want to face.
After finishing the two afternoon lectures, Ichin said goodbye to his classmates and went alone to the school library.
The library was always busy—some came for reference materials, others simply for the quiet atmosphere.
On the second floor, following Utaha's text message directions, he found her sitting in a corner seat, quietly reading.
And there he witnessed an amusing sight.
At her table, Utaha sat alone. But every other chair at the surrounding tables was filled—with male students.
Ichin didn't need to look closely to know why. They were clearly there for Utaha.
He sighed helplessly. Having such an outstanding girlfriend… truly came with complications.
Noticing some of the guys watching him, Ichin walked steadily toward her.
As he suspected, the boys weren't here for studying. They had gathered because Utaha's presence had spread by word of mouth.
The university wasn't lacking in pretty girls, but among this year's freshmen, Utaha easily stood out as one of the most striking.
One came, then another, and soon a small crowd had gathered. Some even tried to approach her, but Utaha firmly shut them down—stating she didn't want anyone, especially boys, sitting nearby. She also made it clear she had a boyfriend. The ring on her finger proved she wasn't bluffing.
Most who got into Tokyo U weren't foolish enough to cause a scene. And in the library, anyone making trouble would only bring ruin upon themselves.
So now the boys simply lingered around, occupying seats but keeping their distance.
When they saw yet another boy heading toward her, many smirked knowingly, expecting him to be rejected like the rest.
But what they hadn't anticipated—Utaha, sensing Ichin's approach, lifted her head and broke into a bright, beautiful smile.
Ichin returned it, sitting down beside her.
"Studying all afternoon… tired?"
"Not really, it hasn't been that long." Utaha smiled, closing her book and slipping it into her bag.
"Let's go. Time to head home."
"Yeah, let's. We still need to buy groceries—nothing left at home."
Utaha nodded, tidied her things, and stood with him.
Ignoring the stares of the boys, they chatted as they left.
"Oh, are we still going to Yukino's today?"
"Not today. Yukino and Eriri had their own classes and club meetings. Let's stick to the plan—tomorrow."
As the two walked out hand in hand, the surrounding boys finally realized the truth.
So he's the boyfriend…
Regret and disappointment filled their faces. Before they could even dream of romance, their hopes had already been shattered. Sometimes heartbreak really does come out of nowhere.
---
The next day, after their usual classes, Ichin and Utaha went to meet Yukino and Eriri right after they got out. Then, after calling Yagami Kō, everyone arranged to meet at the pet clinic.
Driving to Yukino's apartment first, they picked up the two cats, then headed to the hospital.
Their timing was perfect—just as they parked, Yagami Kō's car also pulled into the lot.
Kō got out, spotting the cat carrier in Yukino's hands. She hurried over with excitement, peeking inside at Sesame.
"Sesame! Long time no see! I brought you something yummy—I'll feed it to you later!"
As for Peppa… no such luck. He sat sulking in another carrier, held by Eriri, with no snacks waiting for him.
But that was understandable. At Yukino's house he was already well-fed. The real priority now was the soon-to-be mother, Sesame.
Inside, the vet—already reserved in advance—welcomed them into the exam room.
After the usual basic checks, it was time for an ultrasound.
Through it all, Sesame behaved very calmly, unmoving under Yukino's gentle strokes.
When the images appeared, the vet studied them carefully before speaking.
"Hmm… I can't give a 100% exact number yet. But based on my experience, the pregnancy stage, and the size of her belly, she'll probably have three to four kittens. We can see fetal heartbeats already. She's very healthy, thanks to your good care. As long as preparations are made before delivery, there shouldn't be problems. If you want to be extra sure, you can bring her back five days to a week before the due date for another check."
It was a fair and thorough assessment. After all, it had only been about a month—today's visit was mainly for a general health check. Finding out the litter size was more of a hopeful bonus.
Fortunately, with the vet's years of experience, his judgment was likely close. Hearing it eased Yukino's mind.
After expressing their thanks, the examination was done.
Ichin then drove Yukino and Utaha back to Yukino's apartment, before heading off with Yagami Kō and Eriri to the company.
*