Episode 22: Worry

I was shown into Takizawa’s room.

I felt relieved that Takizawa didn’t seem to have a fever or anything like that.

However, her complexion was rather poor.

She offered to study with me, but I really wanted her to rest. Yet, if I asked her to sleep, she might tell me to leave. I wanted this moment to last just a little longer, so I took her up on her offer.

　She tutored me as usual.

There was just one thing different from before.

Takizawa’s gaze kept drifting to my lips.

I knew I was partly to blame for what had happened, but being stared at like that was undeniably embarrassing.

Perhaps it was her first time too…

I’d always wanted to build a lovely family like my parents’, but that required a partner and such acts. Yet I hadn’t been particularly fussy about who it was with.

　I thought it could be with anyone.

But now, it’s different.

A part of me thinks it was good that my first kiss was with Takizawa.
Realising I was thinking something rather disgusting, I decided to focus on my studies.

Today’s studies progressed quite well too.

Normally, I’d go home now, but I had to keep the promise I made to Takizawa. I didn’t mind what she asked of me, but I felt a little tense and my body stiffened.

　Takizawa beckons me to sit beside her.

Like an obedient dog, I move exactly as Takizawa instructs, offering no resistance.

I know she won’t kiss me again, but her proximity brings back memories of that day.

As I sit down, Takizawa’s head plonks down onto mine.

　Hmm…?

While I tried to process the situation, I heard her snoring softly beside me.

She must have been quite exhausted, so I decided to leave her be for a little while.

Her weight felt warm and solid on my shoulder, reminding me she was right there beside me.

A refreshing scent of soap wafted from her hair.

　I gently took Takizawa’s hand.

I don’t know why I did it, but I wanted to hold it, so I did. It was warm, a warmth that, once you took it in your hand, you didn’t want to let go.

If there is such a thing as a happy moment where you’re doing nothing, I think this is it.

After half an hour, she still showed no sign of waking, so I picked Takizawa up and carried her to the bed.

　Though Takizawa and I are only about the height of an apple apart, even so, she felt far too light.

“She’s so light it’s like she could just disappear…”

I covered Takizawa with the futon, then drew closer to her, wanting to feel her scent once more.

Still, no sign of waking.

I lightly touched my lips to Takizawa’s fringe and stepped away.