Growing attachments.

One step forward and ten steps back, isn't ideal, is it? Though the proportion can be improved over time with fierce commitment. But only taking steps back, however small it is, wouldn't do any good. A small effort is better than staying indifferent. 

After our trip, I visited Yoshino's house the next day with some special dishes Aunt made, of her own accord. She wanted to give it as a gratitude for the delicious Yatsuhashi they sent us. 

I chatted with Yoshino for a little while in the garden as Yoshino planted the red hydrangea she bought during the trip. I helped them with some chores, even though both of them were nudging me to stay put. During the afternoon, I came back home after lunch, as grandma wouldn't let me leave otherwise.  

I feel I've grown more accustomed to them by now.

During the 3rd day of the Golden Week, my parents were supposed to come here, as Uncle was busy with the new project he's handling. But Mom's got a flu and light fever. So the plan had to be cancelled. 

I wanted to visit them after hearing it, but she urged me to stay, saying it wasn't that bad. Also stating that the school year only started and I should focus on it now. Dad was also at home, so I reluctantly agreed with her. 

Over the ongoing month, our daily life was usual, occasionally stopping by at the cafe and going home together. June is only two weeks away, that means the exams for the first term are lurking around, as per the announcement made today during our starting homeroom session. 

As the bell rang, the fourth period ended, embarking our lunch break. Like everyday, we gathered at Ichikawa's table with our lunches. Ichikawa and Yoshino's seats were in the middle, making it an easier rendezvous place. 

“Huhhh…the exams are coming then.” Hideo whined while opening his bento. 

“It's inevitable.” I remarked. 

“How did you all do at the mock exams?” Ichikawa asked. 

“I did well on most of the subjects except Math.” Yoshino replied. 

“I also didn't do well in Math. Though I also did below average in English.” Hideo also responded. 

“I had problems with the Japanese language, I mean the grammar part and with Kanji.” I answered.

“And I did terribly at Science. Barely managed to score average in Home Economics.” Ichikawa fretted.

“Hmm…then how about we hold a study session together?” I suggested.

“Actually it's a good idea. We can help each other's weaknesses.” 

“Yeah. That way you can help me with Math, Fujimura and I can help you in Japanese.” Yoshino exasperated. 

“Huh? Oh, Akito…it gets confusing sometimes, haha.” Hideo realized. 

“How about we all start using our first names. I already call Fumi and Hideo by their first names. So…Akito.” Ichikawa said with excitement.

Well it's common for close friends to address each other by their first names. Perhaps we already believe that we've grown into those criteria. 

“Then, Fumi.” Hideo also started using Yoshino’s first name.

“...Kaori and…uhh …Fumi.” For some reason it felt really embarrassing calling Yoshino's first name. My cheeks felt hotter. Yoshino's face got soft red shade. 

“Umm…Hideo. And…Ak…Akito.” She finally said my first name though she kept her eyes fixated on her lunch. I also let out a long sigh internally. Although the glaring from the other two suggested that they were about to say something teasing. 

“So where will we study?” I opened up a topic before they could say anything. 

“The cafe?” Yoshino followed. 

“The cafe is quite crowded nowadays. So I think it wouldn't be suited as much.” I said. It might distract us many times during study. 

“...Yeah. You're right. How about my house?” 

“Nope. Your grandma would work relentlessly to treat us.” Honestly she'll overexert herself seeing everyone. 

Hideo and Ichi…Kaori had a suspicious glare at me. Though Hideo brushed it off or saved it for later and spoke up. 

“How about my house? Akito is already there. Kaori has already visited before and Yoshino…I mean Fumi also stays close by.”

“I've no problem.” 

“Yeah, it works for me.”

“What issue would I have, if your parents agreed to it?” I said. Though I have to organize my room a bit. I know Hideo will make us sit in my room, as his room is so messed up. 

“Then it's settled.” 

“Tomorrow?” Kaori asked.

Everyone nodded in agreement. Guess I have to start cleaning tonight

We finished our lunch and embraced for the remaining period. 

The final bell rang indicating the end of today's school day. Everyone got off their seats and started walking towards the door. 

“Then we're off. See you both tomorrow.” 

“Yeah. Bye.” 

Kaori and Hideo parted with us in the hallway. They joined the music club right after the Golden Week holidays. So Yoshino…Fumi and I begin walking side by side on our way to home together. 

Though not every day, they had club activities but most of the days we've been walking home together. I usually drop her at her home then go to my home from there. Sometimes I would meet her grandma outside working in the garden. 

I wanted to ask Fumi something for a long time. But I didn't get the right time or maybe I don't wanna seem prying into her. 

“Hey…” I couldn't say her first name because of embarrassment but seeing her turn her head towards me, I continued, “Do you…” I stopped again, mid sentence. 

“Huh, what happened? What did you wanna ask?”

“Uhm…do you like Omurice? I mean what's your favorite dish?” I changed the topic.

“Oyakodon and Mochi. But tell me the actual thing you were saying.” 

“Huh, I just asked you right now.” The hesitation gave it away. 

“Don't think I'll let you get away without telling me that.” She persisted with joyful smile. 

“I'm telling the truth.” I said while my laughter shadowed the words. 

Fumi also chuckled seeing me blatantly lie. 

This moment here with her is now my comfort zone. The laughter and smiles of her are filling my heart bit by bit. Her genuine expressions and nature are becoming the fuel of my life. I wish this continues as long as it can...What is this growing desire?