In My Second Life, I'll Do Everything To Win You Over—My Beloved Childhood Friend Will Never Be Given To Anyone Else - Episode 65

The shop chosen by Kusakabe was a cafe with a calm atmosphere. However, it wasn’t a stiff or formal setting.

Classical BGM is playing in the store, and many customers are enjoying their conversations.

“Momoka-chan, which one are you going to order?”

To make it easier to see, they turned the menu towards me. Of course, the café menu included items like ice cream and cake, and the food menu was also well-stocked with pasta and gratin.

“Then… I’ll have the mentaiko pasta.”

“I’ll have the same thing. What about drinks? Should we go with the set?”

“Yeah. I think I’ll go with iced tea.”

“Well then, that’s the same too.”

Looking at me, Kusakabe smiles sweetly. If it were any other girl sitting here, he would probably have been genuinely thrilled.

I’m really sorry.

I absolutely had to prevent Kusakabe from falling in love with Nagisa.

To achieve that, the most effective means was for me to get close to Kusakabe.

I feel sorry about it, but I have no regrets. For me, the most important thing was to make Nagisa mine.

“Today, Momoka-chan, you’re so cute. Did you dress up for us?”

“Well, um…”

“I’m so happy.”

Kusakabe operates the touch panel and orders lunch for two. Every time our eyes meet, my heart aches.

Honestly, I was feeling heavy-hearted about coming here today.

But I thought I should properly listen to Kusakabe’s story.

To end Kusakabe’s love for me, I will do it myself.

♡

During the meal, we only had trivial small talk. I was convinced that there was no way a confession would happen in a place that wasn’t even a private room.

“Shall we head out soon?”

Kusakabe stands up with the receipt in hand.

“Today, it’s on me. I invited you, after all.”

“No, I’ll pay for my own share properly.”

“Please. Let me pay.”

When I tried to take out my wallet, I was met with a face that looked apologetic. With a face like that, I can’t strongly insist on paying.

“……Thank you”

“Uh-uh”

I finish the payment and go outside as is.

“Is it okay if I ask you something?” Kusakabe said as he started walking towards the less crowded area.

♡

“How about sitting here for a bit?”

What Kusakabe pointed to was a dilapidated park bench. It was so sunny that no one was there.

It’s not a place I would call comfortable by any means, but it’s perfect for having a private conversation with just the two of us.

“Yeah”

“Would you like something to drink?”

“No, I had a drink at the café, so I’m fine.”

I don’t know what kind of face to make when looking at Kusakabe, so I end up looking down. Sweat is seeping from the inside of my tightly clenched hand.

“Hey, Momoka-chan. Didn’t I say I wanted to talk?”

“Yeah”

“I was thinking that maybe, just maybe, Momoka-chan has a vague idea about what I’m talking about.”

“Isn’t that right?” Kusakabe looked at me and laughed.

It seems like the same usual smile, but I can tell they’re nervous.

To the extent that I can understand that, I must have spent the same amount of time with Kusakabe.

“Maybe, Momoka-chan’s prediction is correct. So first, thank you for coming here today.”

“……Yeah”

All I can do is nod. Even though I’ve lived much longer than Kusakabe.

“Momoka-chan. I like you. Would you go out with me?”

The outstretched hand of Kusakabe was trembling.

“Momoka-chan might not like me in a romantic way… but I’ll do my best to make you like me, and I really like you, Momoka-chan.”

No matter what anyone says, my answer has always been decided.

The only one I like is Nagisa.

I don’t like anyone except Nagisa.

“Sorry. I can’t go out with you, Yuki-kun.”