How To Ruin A Love Comedy

Chapter 42: A Sultry Date

Squeak-! Screech-!

The sound of friction echoed as athletic shoes with good grip met the gymnasium court.

Sitting on a low vaulting horse at the corner of the gym, I watched as the female students played volleyball.

Block!

Got it!

Responding to a female students urgent cry, Miyuki, who was playing as the libero, skillfully saved the ball flying in her direction.

Thump-!

The volleyball leisurely bounced up. It was at just the right speed and height for the setter to toss.

She excels in academics and is athletically gifted too...

What cant our Miyuki do?

Shes the perfect realization of a childhood friend and a heroine.

Nice block!

At Tetsuyas cheer, who was sitting beside me, Miyuki flashed a bright smile and raised one hand to wave.

It briefly looked like she was responding to Tetsuya, but...

That greeting was undoubtedly meant for me.

Matsuda, doesnt Miyuki seem in good form today?

Tetsuya asked, his face beaming with a smile.

I shrugged, feeling it was self-evident.

She seemed pretty talkative in the car today. Seems like something good must have happened?

Did he know I was irritated? Tetsuya was more meddlesome than usual.

I have no idea, but why dont you go play basketball or something?

The weather is so muggy...

As much as I dislike Tetsuya, I couldnt help but agree with what he just said.

It was one of those days when the rain poured non-stop, and the humidity made it unpleasant to sweat.

Is it a late rainy season thats come upon us?

Still, I wouldnt have been so irritated because of it, but having Tetsuya next to me made things more annoying.

I stepped away from him and casually lay down in a corner of the gym.

Normally in gyms like this, getting hit by a stray ball is a clich event...

Classmates glance over, their faces flushed as they gauge my reaction...

Miyuki rushes over, inspecting my condition and pleading for me not to get angry...

Though not thrilled, I swallow my temper upon hearing Miyukis words...

This could easily pass as a love comedy-style redemption scene.

As the sound of balls bouncing around the gym grew fainter and the chatter of the students gradually subsided,

I, caught up in various daydreams, drifted off to sleep.

***

Matsuda-kun.

A pure voice tingles my ears.

Its strange.

Im someone who enjoys his sleep, yet at the sound of Miyuki calling me, Im suddenly alert.

Poke. Poke.

Feeling something sharp prod my shoulder, I pretended to still be asleep and turned restlessly.

Lying on my side with my back to where the voice was coming from

Whoosh...

I shivered as a warm breath suddenly entered my ear.

Startled, I vigorously shook my head and jolted upright.

And there I found Miyuki, her face flushed, looking back at me in disbelief.

What are you doing?

I blew air into Matsuda-kuns ear to wake you up.

Shes so nonchalant about it... Shes really changed.

Is she becoming more like me?

I massaged my ear vigorously with my finger and said,

Why are you waking me up during lunchtime?

I woke you up because its lunchtime. We need to clear out the gym. Lets get up and go eat.

How am I supposed to get up when Im about to get aroused because of you?

I looked around, and there was not a single person in sight.

Seems everyone left as soon as the class ended.

With a long sigh to shake off my fatigue, I grumbled.

These people have no decency, leaving me here alone.

They were afraid youd get angry if they woke you. You were just about to snap at me, werent you?

Thats because you were doing something weird.

I woke you up that way on purpose. I wanted to see how much the Matsuda-kun, who used to throw punches at anyone, has changed.

What a convenient excuse.

Wheres Miura? Why are you here alone?

Tetsuya-kun was called by a professor, so hes at the faculty office for a bit.

Which professor?

You left out nim.

Letting out a hollow laugh, I leaned my head against the gym wall.

Then, with a soft chuckle, Miyuki sat beside me and began smoothing out the folds of her uniform skirt.

The unique aroma of plum from Miyuki, fresh out of the shower, dissipated the gyms muggy and musty smell. From her still-damp hair wafted a scent of mint, refreshing not just my nose but also my soul.

*Patter. Drip.*

The sound of raindrops against the gym window served to further mellow the gradually lowering atmosphere.

Its raining a lot isnt it?

Uh, its pouring down hard.

Times like this, the rain would make the perfect lullaby if we were at home. The overcast sky, veiling the sun, would feel comforting too.

Will you wait for me...?

Miyukis question came as she gathered her legs and curled them together.

I turned my head to counter-ask.

It doesnt look like the rain is going to stop anytime soon. What do you want to do today?

Was it the nuanced question mixed with an answer that struck her fancy? Miyukis face brightened.

Im not sure either. Maybe go to the arcade?

No.

How about a caf, like yesterday?

No.

.... Lets watch a movie.

Is that all you can think of for a date spot? Have you become so unoriginal from hanging out with Tetsuya all the time? Indoor activities are fine, but they lack excitement. I really need to broaden your horizons.

No.

What... Then you decide, Matsuda-kun.

Miyukis tone sounded a bit miffed. Suppressing a smirk, I grabbed her wrist and lay her on my lap. I then began to gently stroke her smooth fingernails.

Ah, what are you doing...

Her tone was slightly petulant, tinged with a hint of coquetry. She showed no sign of pulling away.

Silently stroking Miyukis nails, I deepened the already enigmatic atmosphere. As she unconsciously brought her hand up to her forehead, I finally spoke.

Well be hungry if we stay out too late... Wouldnt it be better to start with dinner?

.... Mmm... What do you want to eat?

Lets eat at home.

Home...?

Her eyes widened, surprised by my unexpected suggestion.

Lets eat at my place and then decide where to go from there. What do you think?

.....

Miyukis face instantly flushed.

She had often come to my place alone before.

During vacations, shed bring packed lunches, and when the weather started to heat up, shed arrive early to bask in the cool breeze from the air conditioner. All as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

I had also suggested that we start studying together, and each time, Miyuki had readily agreed. However, the Miyuki right now seemed particularly bashful and hesitant. It was an effect of how our relationship had progressed.

Miyuki and I had already crossed several boundaries of physical intimacy. As recently as yesterday, we had shared a kiss in a secluded space, creating an electric atmosphere even on the car ride home.

Given what weve been through, suggesting we go to my place alone would feel different, even if the words are the same. The weather, growing increasingly romantic, likely played its part as well.

In moments like this, a gentle nudge is often all it takes. Thinking thus, I flipped Miyukis hand over and clasped it in mine.

Thought you were worried about my health. I cant cook, you know.

...Are you demanding me to cook for you right now?

Im not demanding you cook. Just asking how youd feel about it. If youre not up for it, we can eat out.

I-I dont mind it, but...

We dont have any ingredients at home, so lets go shopping first.

Wait... I havent even decided whether to go or not yet. Let me think and Ill tell you.

Think positively.

Its not like I said wed be doing anything inappropriate, right?

Rather than giving a verbal response, I shook my head slowly and stood up.

Lets go eat. Im hungry.

Ah, okay...

***

Mm...!

Chinami examines the equipment seriously, her expression suggesting something isnt quite right. She plunges her hand into it, then withdraws it to sniff at the scent lingering on her skin. Then, she extends her open hand right in front of my nose.

Take a whiff.

I lean in and sniff her petite palm.

Theres a faint smell. Should I wipe it again?

No, this is good enough. Consider it a passing grade. This is me giving you praise. Keep it up like this from now on.

If thats the case, then why did you look displeased earlier?

I cant fathom whats going on in Chinamis mind.

Just as I was about to leave the storage room for the cleaning supplies, Chinami abruptly grabbed my wrist, forcing me to pause.

Whats up?

Junior Matsuda, what did I say you should do when its raining and were cleaning the supplies?

Ah, I forgot about the dehumidifier.

Exactly, exactly. On such humid days, you must turn on the dehumidifier.

Chinami, hesitating for a moment, activated the dehumidifier tucked away in the corner of the storage room. As she turned back to leave, she

Thump!

Ouch!

bumped her head right into my chest.

A scream that sounds like ouch? Somehow, thats amusing.

Its an overreaction peculiar to Japanese culture, but maybe because Ive gotten used to it here, it now feels cute to me*. Suddenly, I find myself curious about what her moans might sound like.

Frowning and clutching her nose, Chinami scolded me.

Junior Matsuda, what do you think youre doing blocking the way?

I was going to turn on the dehumidifier.

Didnt you see me turning it on?

No, I didnt. I was checking on the cleaning supplies.

So you were distracted then...! Its dangerous to do that in the storage room, so next time

Chinami abruptly stopped speaking. It was because I had gently placed my hand on the nape of her neck.

Im sorry. Are you okay?

When I pretended to check on her while gently rubbing her neck with appropriate pressure, her eyes suddenly softened, and a languid moan escaped her lips.

Ah~...

So, she likes massages?

I should do this more often then.

For a moment, Chinamis eyes refocused, clearly feeling my touch. With a small grumble, she shook off my arm, placed her hand on her waist, and scolded me.

Matsuda, what do you think youre doing, touching someone like that?

I... I saw your head snap back so suddenly, I was concerned.

Im happy that youre concerned, but dont you know its polite to ask first?

I thought I heard a thud... Ill be more careful next time.

Did I really hit myself that hard? Well, whatever the case, be careful. This is the Kendo Clubs room. If the Coach or Captain sees you disregarding etiquette, youll be in serious trouble. You get that, right?

Etiquette, schmetiquette.

Soon enough, in this very storage room, not to mention the womens changing room, and even the shower, Renka - the captain - and I will be up to a lot more than just kendo practice.

The chair in the coachs office is pretty comfortable... It seems like a good spot.

Yes.

Good, then...

Just as Chinami was about to speak,

-Good work, Coach!

Cheers from the club members outside the storage room filled the air. Club activities must have ended.

Chinami, looking at the tightly closed door, licked her lips before speaking.

It looks like the club activities are over. Whats our duty now?

To collect the training uniforms.

Correct. Shall we go?

Lets.

Oh, and junior Matsuda.

Yes?

Could you stay a bit after we finish collecting? Since its raining today and we couldnt practice, I plan to hold some practice sessions inside the club room. Of course, if youre busy, you can go.

Spending time productively while waiting for Miyuki? Sounds perfect to me.

I couldnt help but flash a grin at Chinami.

Sure, Ill stay.

*

{Devil: In Japan the most common reaction to unexpected, sudden pain would be to shout, Ita! (!) Literally meaning ouch, deriving from the adjectiveitai () or painful.

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Thank you,

Devil }

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