Dumped by One, Chased by Another? My Ex's Sister Is a Gal and She's Coming for Me - Episode 56

December.

This time of year, often called Shiwasu in Japan, is notoriously busy.

Not only are there major events like Christmas and New Year’s Eve, but there’s also the end-of-year work rush. Everyone seems to be constantly on the move.

And for me, this season carries special significance too.

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“Christmas, huh…”

I had safely passed both the CBT and OSCE—essential exams that medical students must clear to move forward—and I was officially set to advance to my fifth year.

For now, I had a break, and my schedule was wide open.

Haruki said she was free as well.

Well, she’s still in her second year of high school, so there’s still some time before the entrance exam season kicks in.

This might be the perfect opportunity to relax and recharge a bit.

…Though, to be fair, some people still find time to fool around even during their third year of high school.

People like Marco. And Marco. And… Marco.

But never mind Marco.

The important one here is Haruki.

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“Where should we go…?”

Christmas Eve is a special day for couples.

Naturally, I assumed she was expecting something from me.

The question was—how do I meet those expectations? Or better yet, exceed them?

For couples, Christmas isn’t just a big event—it’s also a source of major stress when it comes to making the other person happy.

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“It’s Christmas, so maybe a quiet, classy place? But would a high school girl even enjoy that? Ugh, I have no idea…”

Places like that usually expect you to stay out kind of late.

But Haruki is still seventeen.

It’s not like I’m planning to take her home afterward or anything—nor do I have the slightest intention of doing so.

So then… where should I take her?

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“Yo, Kengorou. You look like you’re deep in thought.”

“Marco…”

“Something bothering you? I’ll lend an ear if you need it.”

“Honestly? That’d be great—thanks.”

I put my hands together in a mock prayer of gratitude.

I hadn’t really thought about it much before, but Marco actually has a girlfriend.

I figured he might be able to offer some useful advice.

Looking back, even when I was dating Fuyumi, I used to come to him for advice like this.

He’s always been someone naturally at ease in social circles—one of the most well-connected guys at J Medical University.

Thanks to his incredible communication skills, he and Honoka had helped me out countless times before.

So, just like always, I decided to share my concerns with Marco.

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“Ah, I get it. You’re stuck on how to spend Christmas, huh?”

“Exactly. There are just too many things to consider.”

“Alright, hang on a sec.”

Without warning, Marco pulled out his wallet.

What the hell?

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“Here. This one’s for you.”

“What is it?”

He slapped something on the table.

It looked like some kind of coupon.

What kind of place is this from…?

Wait—I’ve definitely seen this before.

Could it be a place I’ve actually been to?

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“It’s a coupon for my go-to love hotel. Use it wisely.”

“I don’t need that!”

I smacked the coupon right back onto the table.

Why did I ever expect something helpful from this guy?

I should’ve known better. Time for some serious self-reflection.

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“Wait, don’t tell me… you’re into outdoor stuff instead—”

“I’m telling you, I’m not even doing anything inappropriate in the first place!”

Let me make this clear one more time:

Haruki is still a minor.

I promised both Setsuko-san and Haruki that we wouldn’t do anything like that until after she graduates high school.

And I absolutely intend to keep that promise.

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“Okay, okay, calm down. I wasn’t just saying that to be a perv or anything.”

“You weren’t?”

“Think about it realistically. You’re saying you’re gonna wait over a year to do anything physical with your girlfriend? That’s gotta be rough, man.”

“I’m not denying that… but it’s something I’ve accepted.”

“Yeah, you’re that kind of guy. I get it. But still, physical intimacy is a huge part of a romantic relationship. Going over a year without it? Personally, I wouldn’t recommend it.”

“Hmm…”

I had no comeback.

In a way, what he said was valid.

Physical closeness does matter in a relationship—there’s no denying that.

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“I mean, you don’t have to go all the way. You could just stop at, like, second base or something.”

“You sound like an old man… Still, I appreciate the advice. Thanks, really.”

Despite everything, Marco really is a good guy.

I’ve never seen him act with ill intent toward anyone.

Unless the person’s a total jerk, of course.

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“Ooh, sounds like you’re having a juicy conversation!”

“Oh hey, Honoka.”

That light, airy voice could only belong to Honoka.

She plopped down next to Marco, her usual wavy hair bouncing and her cozy sweater making her look even more cuddly than usual.

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“Mind if I join in?”

“Sure, go ahead.”

“Heh, leave it to me. I’ll offer you the ultimate female perspective!”

She puffed out her chest confidently before speaking.

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“I get where Marco’s coming from, but… I have to say, I don’t totally agree.”