There was no need to fight anymore. She just had to live her life properly.
And if anyone picked a fight, she'd strike back.
Even if people talked behind her back, it didn't bother her anymore.
She might never become the perfect little sister of her amazing big sister.
But if I could just become the beloved little sister of the big sister I loved so much—
Eventually, for some reason, things began to change for the better. More and more people started to like Haruna for who she was. They said she was easier to talk to. Even Haruna herself began to feel like she could finally breathe.
That's when Haruna's self-esteem was fully formed. From then on, she never struggled with who she was again. The story of Amaori Haruna, the little sister of Amaori Renako, came to a happy ending.
But—
only if we're talking about Haruna's happiness.
At some point, things began to reverse between Haruna and Renako.
The big sister she loved so much stopped going to school. She collapsed, like mud. She lost her inner strength and crumbled to the point where she couldn't stand on her own.
Like a seesaw—if one rises, the other sinks. Maybe that's just how it is between sisters.
The more Haruna's talents blossomed, the more they tormented her big sister.
The big sister she once adored began to ignore her.
"Liar."
You said you loved me… and yet.
There was never anyone who would love her for a lifetime.
It had been Haruna's misunderstanding from the very beginning.
Still… maybe deep down, she always believed. That one day, her big sister would stand up and try to walk again on her own.
Because… she's my big sister. She's my one and only big sister.
I followed the address and found the house in a quiet corner of a residential neighborhood. Born and raised in this town, I'm the kind of girl who can get anywhere as long as I have the address.
But here's where the real challenge begins.
The house looked ordinary, but the big nameplate reading "Nashiji" glared back at me like some kind of anti-evil charm. Even though I got all the way here on momentum, now I can't bring myself to ring the doorbell! I'm probably the kind of person who couldn't even hit the fire alarm in an emergency—because it's scary!
Seriously, door-to-door salespeople are heroes. Walking into random homes? That's legendary.
How do I ring the doorbell...?
Wait! What if I call Seira-san?! If it's her, they probably won't be suspicious and open the door!
Genius!
…Nope. Still blocked. Sorry, Seira-san... Once this is all over, I'll definitely keep my promise with Mai, I swear...
That leaves only one option—I have to ring it myself. Man, if I knew it'd be this bad, I should've at least brought a gift box or something. Though honestly, that'd probably just make them ask, "What the heck is this for?"
Uoooooh! O gods of courage, hear me! Please lend me your strength—HYAAH!!
I did it! I rang the bell! I actually pressed it!
Suddenly, something yanked my arm hard— "Let's get out of here!" a voice screamed.
But that voice... was just my cowardice.
No!
If I run now, it'll just be a doorbell prank! I don't want to be a criminal!
Clinging to the moment like it was a splinter of a boat in a raging sea, I stayed still.
Time crawled by, unbearably...
And then—I heard a voice from the intercom. "Yes."
That voice… probably Minato-san!
I waved at the camera and smiled awkwardly, like, "Eheh... hi." Was that the right way to react?
"Um, hi. I'm Amaori Renako." "...Huh? Why?"
Of course, it was a very natural question.
"Um, actually… there's something I wanted to talk about…" "Uh… please wait a sec."
A moment later, the front door opened.
Minato-san appeared in her loungewear, looking clearly suspicious. "Um, Onee-san… why are you here at my house…?"
"W-Well, because we used to be classmates!" "…I see?"
She furrowed her brow and touched her chin—definitely not convinced. That's fine! I don't need her to believe me right now anyway!
I stood there at the entrance, talking with Minato-san. "Actually, I had a middle school reunion today."
Her face seemed to stiffen slightly when I said that. "That's why I'm dressed like this."
"Yeah, yeah! So I suddenly remembered you, and I thought, 'I wonder how Nashiji-san's doing!'"
I could feel her suspicion rise to the next level. "You came here to see her?"
"W-Well, I didn't make an appointment or anything, but… if she's home…"
I gave Minato-san my best smile—what little was left of my extrovert energy—and pressed my palms together in a polite plea.
"So, what do you think? Sorry for showing up out of nowhere!" As expected, her reaction wasn't great.
"Well, but…"
Ugh! I'm terrible at turning people down and at insisting when someone turns me down!
But I can't just avoid everything I'm bad at forever!
"C-Could you maybe just ask Nashiji-san for me? Like, just say, 'Amaori Renako came by!' or something?"
I just kept pleading, wholeheartedly.
It was a big gamble… but if she's the Nashiji-san I remember, she wouldn't turn me away at the door.
She's selfish, sadistic, and totally self-centered—but to keep up her "popular girl" act, she has to be social.
If she lets that crack, she can't stay on top of the class hierarchy. Minato-san hesitated for a second… but then nodded slightly. "Thank you so much! Um, I'll just wait here, then!"
Alright! From here on, I just have to stay polite and not upset her. Gotta bow low, real humble-like. So much for pretending to be a cheerful extrovert—I've totally dropped the act.
…Oh well. Minato-san probably saw through it anyway.
She started to leave, but then paused, looked down, and shook her head. "Actually… I think I'm going to pass."
"Eh!?"
Wait—she changed her mind!?
Why!? What did I do!?
"Please just go home for today, onee-san. Something about this just… doesn't feel right."
"But! I mean—this is for Haruna too!" I was already playing my final card.
It was Seira-san and Minato-san who asked me to help fix Haruna's situation, right?
So it doesn't really make sense for Minato-san to back out now… or at least I thought it didn't.
"I'm sorry," Minato-san said, bowing her head slightly, a sad look on her face.
That makes no sense!?
If this were an RPG, I'd just beat Minato-san who's blocking my path, save right before the final boss, and go confront Nashiji-san—but this is Japan! If I did that, I'd be slapped with a bunch of criminal charges. There's nothing I can do...
Game over!? My mind went totally blank—Amaori Renako was frozen.
No, it's not over! I can still do this! I can fix this! A brilliant solution is about to pop into my head—I can do it, I can do it… I…
Just when even my baseless confidence was about to run dry… "Minato!"
I turned around. A miracle…!?
Actually, yes. It really was. Because the one who appeared was Seira-
san—one of the middle school trio. Huh!?
While we both stood there stunned, Seira-san stepped between us. "W-Why are you even here?"
"…I got a message." From who…?
The only people who knew I came here… were the mysterious informant—and Satsuki-san.
Wait, no. There was someone else… Moon-san!
She's my cosplay buddy and a mercenary—of course she traded contact info with Seira-san. She must've seen this coming and sent help ahead of time. She's always ten steps ahead…
Seira didn't come at me—she turned straight to Minato.
"How long are you gonna keep acting so stubborn!? You know this has gone way too far already!"
"Whoa, what's with you all of a sudden, Seira?"
"It's because of you that the three of us still haven't gone back to normal!"
Then Seira lunged at Minato—wait, what!?
Whoa, this got violent out of nowhere! A fight!? Is this a fight!? W-What do I even do!? Should I try to stop them!?
"Senpai! Go up the stairs—room on the right!" "Huh…?"
Seira shouted— "Go! Hurry!"
Wait—but that'd definitely count as a crime!
This is still Minato-san's house, and even if Seira-san gave permission, it'd still be trespassing!
"Ugh! Just deal with all this already!"
Seira shouted through gritted teeth, pressing Minato against the wall. I glanced at Minato-san's face for a moment.
Her eyes—
—I bolted between them, nearly tripping as I kicked off my shoes. "...Sorry, Minato-san! I'm coming in!"
"Hey—wait, what are you—" "I'll apologize later!"
I ran up the stairs of a stranger's house. I'm fifteen and now officially a criminal!
No more toy handcuffs—real ones are coming next!
But Minato-san's eyes, just now...
I think—those were the eyes of someone hoping to be saved. Like she knew no one would help her, but deep down, she was still waiting for someone to reach out a hand.
Those eyes…
They were just like the ones I saw in the mirror, back when I went to school and no one would talk to me. I don't know if I can help.
But even so— I have to go.
There's something waiting in that room.
Something Minato-san's been hiding… something she's been trying to deal with alone.
I reached the top of the stairs. Just to the right—the door.
I grabbed the knob.
And this time, without hesitation, I opened it wide.
Inside—
It was a room where time had stopped.
My breath caught.
Wrapped in silence, like the bottom of the ocean. A darkness where no light could reach.
The figure that turned toward me was huddled under a blanket, like she was freezing from the cold.
…Huh?
Our eyes met. No way…
I felt like I was trying to talk to some alien being, and I called out. "…Nashiji-san?"
I stepped one foot into the room. She seemed to realize it was me. "…You… Amaori?"
That voice—there was no mistaking it. It was Nashiji Komachi.
And yet, she looked nothing like the image of her that was burned into my memory. It felt like I was staring at two entirely different people who just happened to come from the same origin.
She looked fragile, as if she had been beaten down by the very world around her, on the verge of fading away.
…What is this?
The room was a mess.
And in one corner, her school uniform lay crumpled and tossed aside, like garbage.
Her uniform…?
And in that moment, everything became clear.
"...You haven't been going to school?" Nashiji-san didn't answer.
I stepped further into the room.
It was such a mess, there wasn't even room to stand.
Old textbooks, seemingly untouched, were scattered everywhere—faded like dead coral.
"...Why?"
The words fell from my mouth like stones hitting the floor. "...Why?"
Nashiji-san turned her eyes away, like even moving her gaze was too much effort.
"This has nothing to do with you..." No. I couldn't let that slide. "...Nothing to do with me?"
My vision flushed red.
My world narrowed to a single point.
"Of course it has something to do with me!" It was a voice I didn't even know I had in me.
Because let's be honest—"This has nothing to do with you" is the last thing Nashiji-san should say.
That's the one thing that denies everything I went through.
"The one who half-jokingly excluded me was you, right?"
I came all this way with a reason. But I forgot all of that, and just threw my emotions at her.
"You have no idea how much it hurt! You don't get to say it doesn't matter!"
She looked at me with dull, glaring eyes—and even that made me furious.
"You pushed me so far, so why are you the one holed up like this!?" But the feeling boiling in my chest—it wasn't anger.
"If you're going to end up like this, then what was the point of me suffering with that trauma all this time!? Doesn't that just make me look like a fool!?"
For some reason… it just hurt. "Hey, Nashiji Komachi!"
"Shut up!"
Nashiji-san stood up and leaned in toward me.
"You just show up out of nowhere, say whatever you want! What's your problem!? You're so annoying! I don't care about you, Amaori!"
"Stop running away and just go to school already!" Her face twisted in pain.
"You don't even know what's going on!"
"Of course I don't know! This is the first time we've met since starting high school!"
This wasn't a conversation. It was just a fight—an exchange of bullets loaded with raw emotion.
"What...? Did you come here just to get revenge?" "No. I'm not like that. I won't become like you." "You dressed like that just to mock me, right?"
"No. This outfit... It's proof of everything I've worked for."
I aimed my words like a bullet that could reach even the deepest depths. "Look at me. I worked hard."
I aim the gun at her—ready to shoot down the Amaori Renako that Nashiji-san knows.
"I made my high school debut. I left behind who I used to be."
If she wanted to stay hidden in the dark, that was fine. I would show her just how brightly I could shine now.
"I made so many friends! I practiced makeup all the time! I even got a lovers! I worked hard to take back everything I lost from shutting myself away!"
My words hit her. I saw her look down in pain.
"I worked so hard… and I just wanted to say—'Serves you right!' How's that!? Serves you right!"
"... "
I hurt her—deliberately. With malice.
How does it feel, being looked down on by the girl you once bullied? But… I didn't feel better at all. Not even a little.
"Say something already!"
Even though I knew… no matter what she said, it wouldn't satisfy me. I wasn't going to let Nashiji Komachi go that easily.
I shoved her. "Komachi!"
When I shoved her, she didn't resist at all—like a ghost, her reaction was eerily light. She stumbled, tripped over the bed, and dropped onto its edge like a lifeless doll.
Then, after a long silence, she finally groaned:
"…..I was wrong." " "
And then slowly, painfully, she began to speak.
"It was just teasing… just making fun of the quiet ones."
"It was a trend in our class. We'd invite the kids without friends, make them hang out with boys, and laugh at them."
"It was just a stupid game to us."
Back then, everything in the class moved the way Nashiji Komachi wanted. If someone annoyed her, she'd ignore them—make them a warning to everyone else.
Like a child ripping the wings off a butterfly. There was nothing in Komachi's confession.
Everything she said—exactly what I imagined. Predictable. Cliché.
If there had been even one new truth, one unexpected reason, one honest excuse... maybe I could've forgiven her.
I think… that's what I really wanted.
Because honestly, I don't want to hate anyone.
Even if someone's hurt me, I don't want to strike back. That kind of thing… it's exhausting.
And more than that, it hurts. It hurts both sides. I'm so weak, I even hurt from the hurt I cause.
It's painful. "So… I'm sorry."
Even that apology… disgusted me.
If she'd still been acting all high and mighty—If she was still sitting on her throne—I could've just thrown my hatred at her from below and walked away.
Then I could've screamed all my rage, thrown all my hate, hurled every insult and grudge at her.
Got my revenge. Felt satisfied.
Started fresh.
And yet, seeing her like this…
I'm painfully reminded that, in the end, Nashiji Komachi is just a first-year high school student—just like me.
Her reason for falling apart?
It's probably something ordinary.
She got into high school, tripped, failed, and when she turned on others, they turned on her just as fast.
That's how she ended up here—not going to school. It feels gross.
Like I'm stomping on someone who's already fallen to the bottom. Even I think this is just bullying.
"Promise me."
Lowering my smoking gun, I look down at her. I'm done here.
"Don't tell anyone about what I was like in middle school." "…Yeah."
She nods slowly, like a fish that's lost all strength. "Okay."
"And one more thing."
I squeeze out the last thing I have to say. "I'll forget about you, Komachi." "...Yeah."
That was the last thing I had to say. "I won't ever think about this again."
Because it's not like my words will ever reach her anyway. Telling her to hang in there, to face forward, to fight back against life—none of that would ever get through.
There are people in this world you just can't understand. Komachi lives in the deep sea.
I walk in the sunlight now. She smirks arrogantly.
"You're free anyway, right, Amaori? Just hang out for a bit." "Sorry… I… don't really want to go…"
That day, in that moment—our paths split forever. Still…
As I was about to leave, I stopped near the door. "One more thing."
"...What now?"
Those words were completely unnecessary. But still, I felt like I saw a faint, fragile thread.
What connected me and Komachi wasn't any lingering grudge from middle school, or some ongoing conflict. It was just something simple. A feeling anyone would have just by living. Wake up, eat, go through the day. And like that—it was love for her family.
"Try not to worry your little sister too much, okay?"
Not as Amaori Renako and Nashiji Komachi, but simply as one older sister speaking to another.
As a former truant student, those were the only words I could give her.
Komachi didn't say anything in return. But that one sentence… I think it reached her. Even down to where she was.
When I returned to the entrance, having spent every last bit of emotion— Minato-san and Seira-san were crouched by the door, like teenagers hanging around outside a convenience store.
It looked like their heated argument… had at least come to an end? "Oh, Onee-san."
Minato-san noticed me and looked at me with worried eyes. "…How was it?"
Being asked that by her little sister made me feel kind of guilty… But apologizing now, after everything I said, just felt too convenient. So I just calmly said what had to be said.
"My business here is done." "…I see."
I'd done what I came here to do.
Komachi probably won't ever talk about my past again. I really had changed it—my past.
Now, maybe… everything will finally go well. Haa…
Minato-san let out a long sigh. We were all exhausted.
Seira-san sat cross-legged, her chin in her hand, and muttered:
"Minato, you've been trying to hide that your sister's stopped going to school."
"... "
While Minato-san kept her head down, Seira-san spoke up on her own.
"She just wanted everyone at school to know how great her big sister is. She told them all kinds of stories she'd heard. I think the stuff about you,Onee-san senpai,came up from that too."
"I see…"
Minato-san looked apologetic as she began to speak.
"I just thought… if everyone found out she wasn't going to school, it'd make it even harder for her to come back."
Well… yeah, I guess that makes sense. "I'm sorry, Onee-san."
"No, it's okay."
I could understand that feeling—wanting to protect someone in your family.
"Being a little sister must be tough, huh?"
When I said that with a faint smile, Minato-san looked up in surprise, then nodded, her face looking like she was about to cry.
"Maybe… maybe you're right. But I love my big sister." "I see…"
It warmed something deep inside my chest.
That even someone like Komachi, after everything, still had someone on her side. Because even for my past self, that would've been a kind of salvation.
While I gave a gentle smile, Seira-san sighed in an exaggerated way. "I've been stuck in the middle this whole time, you know?"
"…Sorry, Seira." "Geez, honestly."
I bowed my head to Seira-san, who had always done everything she could for Haruna and Minato.
"Thank you, Seira-san."
"You don't need to thank me, Onee-san Senpai… Haruna and Minato are my friends too."
With a small grunt, Seira-san stood up.
"I snuck out of housework to come here, so I should be heading back soon. But—there's just one thing I've always wanted to say."
Then, as if to bring this whole conversation to a close, she smiled at Minato.
"You two are way too obsessed with your sisters." Ah… That made sense.
Seeing Minato turn red and fall completely silent.
Thanks to Seira-san's words, I finally understood.
Maybe this wasn't really a story about two sisters—one who used to skip school, and one who still does. Maybe it was actually about the younger sisters who had to live in their shadows.
I waved to the two of them and left the Nashiji house.
My makeup, all melted from sweat, felt gross. I just wanted to take a bath, fast.
As I walked a bit and looked up at the window with its tightly closed curtains, I wondered—just for a moment—if there was something more I wanted to say.
But all that came to mind was a bitter little thought. I started walking again.
Really... she's just hopeless, that kind of older sister.
***
After getting home, I had some leftover dinner since I hadn't eaten much at the reunion.Then I took a bath, and finally felt refreshed, head to toe.
"Ah, welcome back."
"Mhm."
I passed Haruna in the hallway. I've known that face for as long as I can remember—
cheeky, a little bratty, strangely mature but still with that innocent look. And sometimes, it's just unbearably cute and precious.
I called out to her. "Hey, Haruna."
"Hm?"
I hesitated a little… then tried asking. "Hey… want to sleep together tonight?"
"Huh?"
"Sis… what is this even about?" "Uhh… no real reason…"
The lights were off, and I was lying in the same bed as my little sister.
It wasn't a double bed or anything, just narrow enough that I might fall off if I wasn't careful.
"Ughhh. This is so uncomfortable."
As expected, she started complaining.
And yet, when I asked if she wanted to sleep together, she thought about it for a second and said, "I guess I don't mind…"
It was like that with baths and hangouts too—she always comes along when I invite her.
Maybe… she really does like me.
Her warmth came through the pajamas—
Soft and warm. "So? What is it?"
"What do you mean?"
"I figured you had something you wanted to talk about." "Ah, well… so you noticed?"
"I mean, it was super obvious."
"Yeah, that's true."
I had no choice but to admit it. "What did you talk to Mai about?" "Huh, that?"
"Not just that—this too."
"Eh… whatever. There was this dumb rumor going around at school, and I tried to put it out, but it didn't work. So I decided to stop going."
"What the heck…"
"You know the saying, 'Rumors only last 75 days'?" "Wait… so two months?"
"Pretty much."
"Even i couldn't have expected something like that…" "Genius, right?"
"Why are you proud of that…?"
Seriously though… does she even get what she's doing?
She actually confessed that the reason she was absent from school for so long was to make people stop thinking I'm an introvert…
"Why would you go that far?"
"Because if people find out you're a gloomy introvert, my school life would be over!"
"Yeah yeah."
"Don't 'yeah yeah' me! That's literally everything!" "Hey, Haruna."
I whispered while our backs touched. "It's all okay now."
"What do you mean okay?" "I mean, it's all fine."
"So... you're saying I need to burn down this house?" "No, no. My gloomy past has been wiped clean." "You built a time machine or something?" "Something like that."
"You're an Idiot." "You brat..."
My sister held back a yawn.
"You know, I think you should try living like a decent person for once, big sis"
"I mean… I kind of already am, don't you think?" "I guess."
"…Wait. Was that you being nice?"
"Yeah… thanks to all your wonderful friends." "Well, yeah…"
Can't argue with that. "Haruna..."
"Hmm?"
Her voice started to tremble a little. "I'm sorry."
"For what?"
"For everything, all this time." Little by little, my words came out.
"For skipping school… for being such a mess… for taking it out on you. And even before all that—for never being a good big sister… I'm sorry."
"…"
"But I'll try. I'll do my best to become a proper big sister.
I'm truly grateful for everything you've done for me, Haruna. So…"
Haruna stirred slightly. Then suddenly, she yanked on my shoulder and turned me to face her.
"Huh?"
My little sister sat up and leaned her face in close. "Wait—what?"
Before I could react, she bit me. On the neck. "Gyaaah!!"
I jumped back in a panic.
"Wh-What are you doing—GYAAAH!"
I rolled off the bed with a loud thud and landed flat on my butt. "What are you doing, big sis?"
Haruna looked down at me and laughed, sticking her tongue out playfully.
"You worrying about me? You're a hundred years too early for that."
I couldn't say anything, so I just groaned and rubbed my sore neck and butt.
I mean, okay, maybe she's right—but come on! She could at least show me her cute side sometimes!
You big dummy, Haruna!
"Please, Haruna-senpai!"
My sister bowed her head desperately.
Haruna stood with her arms crossed, staring down at her older sister, who was still just a middle schooler.
"A high school debut, huh…" "Yes!"
A voice echoed in her head.
"Liar."
Here we go again.
Of course, she didn't believe it. Her sister had always let her down.
Even before she stopped going to school, she had been a dull, unremarkable person—bottom of the class social ladder, emotionally clueless, and inconsiderate.
The admiration I felt for her as a child turned out to be a complete misunderstanding. What I thought was reliability was just her being overbearing. What seemed like kindness was really just weakness. And as the years went by, all those illusions slowly fell away.
Now, like a skeleton with no flesh or skin left, her sister bowed her head—
and Haruna just watched.
It would've been easy to walk away right then—to turn my back and listen to the part of me that felt betrayed.
Because when you expect something, you only end up hurt again. And the hatred just keeps growing.
Yes. Even now, I was still holding on to hope— that she might shine like she used to.
That my sister might become that amazing person again.
It's pathetic. I never learn. But the things I say to her— they cut me too.
I'm still holding on, just the same.
So…
"Fine, whatever…" This is it. The last time.
A chance to settle things—with her, and with myself.
And if it fails… at least I'll have a reason to finally walk away. "First, we're going to the salon."
"Huh?"
"Get that annoying hair of yours fixed! Once you can see straight, we'll move on to the next step! And just so you know, if we're doing this, we're going all in! If you start whining halfway, I'm done with you forever! Got it!?"
My sister stood tall and bowed her head deeply. "Thank you very much, Haruna-senpai!"
It's not going to work anyway… but that's okay. If it's really impossible, then so be it. It'd be better if she just admitted it. Honestly, I'd feel relieved.
"I'll do my best!"
Then she turned on her heels. "…Hm?"
She was probably just acting on a whim. But there was something in her eyes—A quiet resolve that hadn't been there in years. In the past three years, I'd never seen her like that.
And just like an old scar aching again, I felt a flicker of admiration for her stir in my chest.
She was standing in front of the bathroom mirror. Holding a pair of scissors sideways, Bringing them up to her bangs, Murmuring something like a quiet prayer.
"I'll do this… I can do this."
She stared into the mirror with sharp intensity, as if her own reflection were her greatest enemy.
"... !"
Haruna gasped and quickly ducked out of sight, pressing her hand over her mouth behind the bathroom's thin wall.
She hadn't expected this.
It might've been the biggest miscalculation of her life. A tear slipped down from her eye.
Haruna remembered—
There was a time when she had been hurt, confused about how to live without being hated, and she had confessed all of it to her sister.
That day, her sister's words had saved her.
Now she realized… They were the same.
Her sister was also lost, stuck in life, and yet still struggling—
still trying to change.
Haruna's heart overflowed with emotion.
"I'm starting over… right here, right now!"
In that moment, Haruna finally understood what her sister was trying to fight. The hardship Haruna had once overcome as a child—it was something that could happen to anyone.
And now, her sister stood at the same crossroads, finally ready to face life head-on.
(Big sis…)
She couldn't even name the tears welling up inside her. Her emotions poured out like a broken dam.
Three years of bottled-up feelings caught in her throat. (Big sis…!)
Her sister would never go back to how she was before.
The beautiful memories of childhood would likely continue to torment her.
But even so, she would change.
No one knew where she'd end up— but she was still Amaori Renako.
She was still the big sister Haruna had once loved so deeply. Stifling her sobs, Haruna cried and wished:
If only everything in this world could go her way.
If only her future held no more pain, and everything turned out right. If only every person in the world could love my older sister.
I hope her high school debut goes smoothly, and that she makes lots of friends.
Someday, she'll fall in love—and may that happiness last forever. Because for me to be happy... she has to be happy too.
Her happiness is mine.
We've always shaped each other, like mirror images. That's what it means to be sisters.
I want her to be happy—for me. She's my other half.
Haruna took a deep breath,
wiped her tears, and appeared in front of her sister with squared shoulders.
"Big sis!?"
"Huh!?"
Renako had cut her bangs with scissors, and now stood there with an awkward haircut.
"I told you to go to a salon! Why would you cut it yourself!?"
"Uh… you said I couldn't move on unless I did, so… was that not okay…?"
"I didn't mean just chopping your bangs off would fix things! I meant go do it properly! Geez…"
Haruna sighed deeply at her anxious sister.
"Guess there's no choice—next is washing your face and doing some skincare."
"Huh?"
"I'll book a salon visit for you next time, alright?" "Y-yes,!"
Haruna groaned at her big sister, who responded like an over-eager rookie soldier.
"Seriously, you're completely helpless without me."
And so, the first step in a new relationship between the Amaori sisters began here.
Some time later, I got a message from Seira-san. (Naturally, I had unblocked her by then…)
Apparently, Minato-san wanted to get in touch, and Seira asked if she could share my contact info.
I replied, "Of course," and while at it, she reminded me about my promise with Mai again… But in the end, things between me and Seira- san also went back to normal.
She's my sister's friend, Kaho-chan's cosplay buddy, and a fan of Mai.
She's two years younger than me, but seeing how thoughtful she is toward her friends made me feel closer to her. She's really a good person.
As for the message from Minato-san—
It said that Komachi Nashiji had returned to school for the first time in six months.
"I'm sorry for the trouble. There's a lot I want to say to my sister, but I think it's better not to get involved right now. I feel like it would only burden her if family keeps pushing. But really—thank you."
When it came to that message, though… I just didn't know how to respond.
I wish I could've just said something like, "That's good to hear," and left it at that… but I'm not mature enough for that.
In the end, what did I really want her to do?
Did I want her to stay stuck in that frozen room forever?
Or did I want her to return to school and act like the queen again? Honestly… I don't even know.
People are complicated.
Even now, I'm not sure if I've fully gotten over my trauma from middle school.
Because—even if I've come to terms with what happened with Nashiji- san—I've learned that if I casually reject someone's invitation again, there are people who'll get offended.
Living boldly without caring what others think… that's still not something I can do. So I'll probably keep living while constantly worrying about others' opinions.
But when I heard Nashiji-san went back to school… I realized something.
Knowing that something I did helped change someone's life—that really
is something to be moved by. And so, the seasons go on.
* * *
The weather was getting chilly enough that I was starting to long for a coat more than a scarf.
When I came home and said, "I'm back," I noticed two unfamiliar pairs of shoes at the door.
Oh? What do we have here…
I crept up the stairs quietly, trying not to make a sound. As soon as I reached the top, I heard cheerful voices coming from Haruna's room.
I leaned in to listen.
"Wait, but that's like… right?" "Well, if Haruna says so, then..." "LOL..."
Three voices.
They were already back to normal.
Maybe even if I hadn't done anything, the three of them still would've ended up laughing like this.
But if that's the case, I don't mind.
I only did it for myself—because I wanted to. Don't get it twisted.
I have no plans to act all annoying and go, "Hey, that was thanks to me, right? lol" to my little sister.
...Though, maybe once in a while wouldn't be so bad. Like if she really tried to act all superior or something... yeah!
Mm–hmm, I nodded with my arms folded, and just as I was about to head back to my room—
Just like before, the door opened. Ugh.
"Oh, it's Onee-san senpai!" "Hello! Thanks for having me." Seira and Minato bowed politely. "Um… E–excuse me."
Getting caught off guard like this is the worst!
I bowed back, but something about the mood felt strange. Seira and Minato exchanged awkward glances.
Wait, did they figure me out…? Like they don't need me anymore? They just greeted me but now don't know what to say?
I guess as the older one I should say something to break the ice, but I'm way too awkward for that. I don't even have any small talk ready.
"Well then, enjoy yourselves."
So I just played the role of "Haruna's sister" and walked away. As long as I stay in character, I can do it. Roles are the best!
But just then, Seira and Minato stopped me, gently tapping my shoulder. What!?
"Well, Haruna told us just now…"
"You helped out even though you're going through a tough time…" "A tough time…?"
What are they talking about? I don't have a clue. Haruna gave an
awkward laugh, clearly trying to dodge. I was getting a bad feeling.
"Eh, Wait. Haruna, what did you say?" "Well, how do I say this…"
"What!?"
When I pressed her, Haruna looked away.
"I figured it was okay now… so I told them you used to date Mai-senpai." "Ha!?"
My eyes flew open. Even if we're family—there's such a thing as privacy!
That's when I finally understood what those sympathetic looks from Seira and Minato really meant.
"Wait… is that why?"
"It's okay, Onee-san senpai. At least you got to enjoy a nice dream, right?"
"I mean, if you use your past with Mai Otsuka as leverage, it might be easier to get a new partner! So good luck!"
I groaned.
"Listen! I haven't even been dumped yet, okay!?"
As expected, my words didn't reach the middle school trio at all. "Th-these girls…"
What the heck am I supposed to do in this hellish mood…? Just then, Haruna gave a small, deliberate cough.
"Then, big sis…"
She cleared her throat again— And with a teasing glint in her eye, she gave me a sparkling smile.
"Should I volunteer to be your girlfriend?"
Maybe even she felt embarrassed teasing me like that—her cheeks were a little red. To my little sister, who just said something that completely ignored the fact I'm her older sister—
I shouted.
"You're a hundred years too early to be worrying about me, little sister!"
Geez… you're seriously the most outrageous little sister ever! Right, Amaori Haruna-chan?
"Why don't you get it!?"
She slammed the door shut, her cheeks flushed and a light sheen of sweat on her forehead. It was rare to see her like that, so I found myself speaking to her gently without thinking.
"...Are you okay?"
Startled, she looked up at me. "Satsuki? Why are you here?"
This was Queen Rose HQ. I'd been stopping by for personal reasons lately, but I had no intention of telling Mai the truth.
"Someone almost asked me to model again." "I see... I think you'd be great at it, though."
"Using your connections now would be rude to people who are working hard on their own."
I didn't plan on picking a fight with Mai over it—it's just not worth the hassle.
Satsuki quickly changed the subject. "Anyway... who was that woman earlier?" "...Ah."
Mai's expression darkened.
They moved to the lounge and sat together on the sofa. Mai spoke, her expression still somber.
"It's about the fiancé. Mom apparently has no intention of taking back her words."
"I see... she's not going to be easy."
"Yeah. I admit I was careless... but why is she rushing everything like this?"
Mai looked like she might bury her head in her hands at any second. It should be around now.
Satsuki continued speaking carefully so as not to tip off Mai.
Mai was keenly perceptive. The expressive talents she honed as one of Japan's top models often extended to reading others as well.
"Your mom called me in the other day and asked how things were going for you at school."
"...What did you say!?"
"She mostly asked the usual stuff, but one thing stood out—she wanted to know if you've started dating someone. I think she's figured it out."
"Then why...?"
"She probably doesn't trust your current partner. That's why she's trying to set you up with someone she thinks is more suitable."
Mai fell silent.
It's meddling, sure—but it's also her mother's love. That must feel complicated.
"Then why not just introduce her?"
"You think introducing her would fix anything?" " "
Mai went silent again.
Good. If she'd been blindly in love with Renako, my plan would've fallen apart. Thank you for being such a mess, Renako.
"And there's Sena, too." "Yeah… you're right."
Lowering her voice, Mai gave a small nod.
There's no way anyone would accept a three-way relationship.
But what Mai's mother misunderstood was that it was actually a case of four-timing.
"But even so, I'm not giving up on Renako. I'll find a way." " "
Seeing that gleam in her eyes, Satsuki made her move. "So I came up with something."
She kept her tone casual, trying not to sound unnatural.
"I don't really care what you or Amaori do. But I don't want Sena, who did nothing wrong, to be caught in the middle. So—"
Looking straight into Mai's eyes, she said:
"How about pretending we're dating?" Mai just looked back at her.
"If we pretend to be dating in public, we can probably push Lucie away. I know aunty better than anyone else—and she trusts me. If I'm your partner, I think she'll accept it."
She said all this carefully, doing her best not to speak too fast. Her heart was pounding as Mai stared at her intently.
"You two can keep dating in secret. This will just be a public act between you and me. I'm sure aunty will fall for it—"
Suddenly, her hand was grabbed. "Huh?"
"Are you serious!?"
Mai's face lit up in a radiant smile. "Y-yes..."
Slightly overwhelmed, she nodded.
"Thank you for going this far for me! Satsuki, you're really a kind person!"
She even got hugged. "U-uh... yeah..."
She didn't know why, but she felt oddly guilty.
She had expected Mai to doubt her and reluctantly agree—but this?
"Meeting you might be one of the greatest blessings of my life, Satsuki. Thank you. I'm glad you're here."
"Don't get ahead of yourself. It's not like aunt has agreed yet."
"No, no—if it's you, Satsuki, even if I were the President, the whole nation would celebrate. This is perfect!"
"That was too much!" Panting, she pried Mai off her. What is with this girl!?
"Just know what you're getting into." "What do you mean?"
Mai smiled like all her worries had vanished, and that just made Satsuki even more irritated.
"Lucie doesn't seem like the type to give up on you so easily." "Heh."
Mai even chuckled aloud.
"She'll give us her blessing. If we're together—she's a kind woman, after all."
Ugh, seriously.
Satsuki had to focus all her willpower just to keep her face from showing how annoyed she was.
That's exactly why! You!
You're the type who gets totally blindsided by someone like me!
Instead of yelling, Satsuki held herself back from punching Mai in the gut with all her might. And so, one week later, the name of Mai's fiancée was officially changed.
Oozuka Mai.
And Koto Satsuki.
What had formed between them wasn't just a winter wind—it was a hurricane far too big to be ignored.
Hello, this is Mikami Teren.
First off, I owe you all an apology...
I said I'd release both parts quickly, and keep the page count short—yup, I wrote that in the volume 6 afterword.
Sorry...
Well... I've just been really busy with all kinds of work… eheh…
This might not make up for it, but I'll try to get volume 8 out a little sooner! I swear I won't make you wait another year this time! Trust me! Please trust me, okay!?
If I lie again, feel free to bury me under a tree!
Alright then! Now that I've totally regained your trust (while definitely not avoiding eye contact), I'll begin the afterword for volume 7.
This time I have so much to say! I've even been given 8 full pages! Wow, I sure talk a lot!
Not that I should be this giddy after making you wait a whole year... right...
First of all, this volume is about the Amaori sisters.
Sister yuri is a classic theme in the genre—and I absolutely love it too. So I took this chance to stuff in all the elements I enjoy. The way a sister sees her sibling. The way a sibling sees her sister. That unique closeness only family can share… It's something truly one of a kind.
Sisters are just the best… really…
Since this is a two-part story, we started the chapters from Chapter 5 this time. And for some reason, Renako always ends up in a bath with a cute girl in Chapter 2.
But this time, there was no Chapter 2 to begin with. So before writing, I thought, "Ah, guess no bath scene this time!" But then, based on where the story was headed… yep, she ended up in a bath again with another cute girl. Total coincidence!
Geez, these coincidences keep happening!
A story with this much skin probably wouldn't make it to anime, huh? Things are strict these days… Also, this volume was a power-up episode for Renako, leading into the Season 2 finale.
That's one of the reasons we split it into two parts. When the main character levels up, they become able to take on even tougher trials!
And that's how Renako's world keeps growing. Hang in there, protagonist!
So yeah, this is Renako's very first solo cover. We did it!
Technically, it's not the current version of her, but to represent the story, we had Takeshima-san draw a determined Renako. I really love stories about people who fight to change themselves.
It's exactly because they're not strong enough that I want to see them struggle—to push past their limits. I want them to shine. You're the main character of this story, Amaori Renako.
Next time will be the Season 2 finale.
If I try to fit it all in one book, it'll be super long, so I'm still not sure whether it'll come out as Volume 8 by itself—but no worries. The story is already planned out! I know what I'm going to write!
Like the end of Season 1, this one will again bring big changes to the characters' relationships. I'll squeeze out every idea I have to surprise you while meeting your expectations—so I'd be thrilled if you're looking forward to it.
I'll be doing my best too…!
Now then, let's move on to the acknowledgments. Takeshima-sensei, thank you once again for the super cute illustrations of the girls!
And for drawing those adorable reader reaction illustrations again—seriously, you're the best! I seriously can't survive without your art, Takeshima-san! Let's go to the top of the light novel world together…! To my editor K-Hara-san, thank you as always for all your support.
There are more things to coordinate lately, and as usual, I end up making things hectic every day... I really admire how much you value the reader community. I always try to follow your example. Thank you!
To everyone who helped make this book happen—thank you so much.
Huge thanks also to Musshu-sensei, who draws the manga version, and to Henda-san, the editor.
Believe it or not, the manga has now entered the Volume 4 arc! Go ahead and draw Kaho-tya to your heart's content…
Also, please check out my other girl's love comedy, Arioto! As I write this afterword, I'm literally diving into chaos right now.
Hang in there, me… Hang in there…
Next time, the person who's been scheming in the shadows will finally step into the spotlight.
This is the climax of Season 2.
I'll give it my all so I can deliver it in the best form possible! This was Mikami Teren!
The afterword's not over yet!
So, I've got an announcement for you all. Watanare is getting an anime adaptation!
Yay!
It's the dream of every light novel author—to have their work adapted into an anime. I never thought I'd make it this far… I'm beyond grateful!
First, please allow me to formally express my gratitude.
There's absolutely no doubt—Watanare becoming an anime is all thanks to you, the readers who supported it.
To those who read it, recommended it to others, or supported it in their own way—thank you. It's thanks to you that we've come this far. Yes, I mean you! You holding this book right now! (I got serious out of nowhere, huh?)
There are all kinds of entertainment in today's world. We're living in a time where even high-quality entertainment can be enjoyed for free. In this era, those who still spend their money and time to buy Watanare, you are deeply appreciated.
To repay you, even a little, I'll continue writing yuri with a flavor that's a little different from the rest. No matter how much entertainment exists, I want people to say, "Still, the nutrients from Watanare can only be found in Watanare." Creating stories that make people feel that way is the greatest way I can repay you.
This is an experience only Watanare can offer—please continue supporting this world! So now I'll be talking about the anime and all the behind-the-scenes stuff!
Woohoo!
When I looked back at my emails just now, I saw the first one about the anime adaptation was sent on November 28, 2022. That was two years ago!
It started with a phone call. The moment my editor said, "There's an anime offer for Watanare," I turned off all emotion and just calmly replied, "I see."
I still remember that. Because… anime adaptations are scary!
I'm a light novel author celebrating my 10th anniversary this year (I've been around for a while, at least in terms of career length).
I've heard a lot about anime adaptations from others—yes, including plenty of horror stories... Like getting canceled halfway through—apparently that's pretty common.
What if I got super excited right now, lived every day hyped up about it… but then the whole anime deal collapsed?
My mental health wouldn't survive it! I'd be a wreck! My mental defense instincts kicked in.
Ever since then, I've been telling myself every single day for two years, "Not yet—it's not time to celebrate," just to protect my heart.
I know, I'm such a pain, right?
Some time after the anime project was greenlit, the main staff members were finalized. This meant the director, character designer, series composer, and others—in short, the team that would actually be making the anime had been decided.
This was around the summer of 2023. Six months had already passed since the anime adaptation was confirmed. Apparently, that's about average speed—maybe even a bit fast. Anime adaptations really do take a lot of time, huh?
The introductory meeting was held in a large conference room at Shueisha. I think there were about twenty people there—lots of high-ups from Shueisha and various people involved with the anime.
Ah, I see—it's like a kickoff meeting! That's how I interpreted it. As everyone shared their thoughts about the anime and Watanare, my turn came—right at the end.
Wait, the original author speaks last!?
Even while flustered, I shared one thing I'd decided beforehand about the anime. That was about the core of Watanare.
Watanare is a yuri story. But is yuri really the heart of the series?
It's partly true. But honestly, I felt it would be inefficient to expect people who had never worked on yuri before—people who aren't deep into it—to make one properly.
So I decided: I'd personally supervise the key yuri elements—as a hardcore yuri fan—while letting the production team focus on the other heart of Watanare. In other words, "Let's emphasize how wonderful
hardworking girls are!"
The earnest efforts of girls resonate with everyone. I felt this was a perfect theme for anime, a medium that helps reach a wider audience.
But back then, I didn't know yet…
I had no idea that Arakawa Yasuhisa—the man behind Kamen Rider BLACK, Kuuga, and Super Sentai—was a hardcore yuri fan who buys Yuri Hime every month, and even volunteered to write all the episodes himself!
And so, with the staff finalized, we moved on to the next stage: the script meetings—also known as the "read-through" sessions.
From then on, I came to Shueisha every week to join the script reading sessions in the meeting room. Since Mr. Arakawa totally got all things yuri, working with him was super easy and smooth.
The script readings started around autumn and went on until the beginning of 2024, I think. I really enjoyed those days, but wow—script reading takes up a ton of time! I realized, "Wow, anime adaptations really do get hectic!"
I'd heard during my ten years as a writer that the author has a lot of say during script readings. So I tried my best to clearly explain my reasoning, and I always organized my thoughts beforehand when I wanted changes.
Because you know—saying something like "This just feels kinda off, y'know?" actually works when you're the author! (Probably! I mean, I don't actually know, but still!)
That's terrifying! I don't want to use my authority to make anyone
miserable! No monster author here!
So whenever I voiced my thoughts, I always asked things like, "This is what I think, but what about you, Director? Everyone?"—checking with the team.
Even so, I think I was treated very kindly—maybe even spoiled a little.
But given the kind of story Watanare is, I think the script readings were always full of laughter—it was such a fun atmosphere!
This is a total side note, but I found it really funny that even at the script readings, all the adults respectfully called Ajisai and Satsuki "Ajisai-san" and "Satsuki-san."
(Meanwhile, Renako was just "Renako.")
I begged for 2 extra pages in the afterword, and yet I didn't even get to write about the voice recording…
I said it'd be 8 pages, but now it's 10! See!?
There's still so much I want to say—maybe I'll write it on Fanbox or X (formerly Twitter), or in the afterword of Volume 8.
Even now, everyone working on the project is giving it their all to bring out everything that makes Watanare special. In fact, including the director, the team is made up of people who are crazy about Watanare!
About four different staff members told me, "Renako is totally me!" Like, seriously—what kind of person is Renako!?
Even I've started to think… maybe it's finally okay to be happy about it. So, just a little over half a year left—let's live each day looking forward to
the broadcast together!
I'd love to get that story—the one about breaking down a girl who swears girls can't be with girls—turned into an anime too!
(Yeah, no way that's happening though.)
Well then!
I'm just glad I could finally share this happy news today! This was Mikami Teren!