24. The break time of the two (2)

"Free at last...!"

After arguing some more with her older sister(?), Shibata took me by the hand and we left the restaurant.

"I'm sorry for her behavior. She is not a bad person but she is very protective of me."

"Don't worry, she is an interesting person."

Trying to reassure her with my words, Shibata did not seem very convinced.

Taking hold of my arm again, she had a pout on her face.

"I am more interesting than she is.... I think..."

Surprised by her weak tone of voice, I did not know how to answer her.

Although she constantly showed a strong personality, these brief moments of weakness were really unfair.

"Ouch!"

Foreflicking her forehead, I chased away all her negative thoughts.

"You are... more interesting..."

"... Huh?"

Releasing myself from her grip, I started walking without a destination.

"Can you repeat what you just said?"

"Come on, we have to digest lunch!"

"But I didn't hear at all! Say it again, please!"

"I'm drawing a blank!"

"I want to hear that ikemen phrase again!"

"Then you heard everything perfectly!"

My attempt not to meet her gaze was completely futile since it was impossible to hide my embarrassment from the tone of my voice.