Chapter 3: What Happens When a Downer-Type Beauty Picks Up a Black Cat

What is humanity’s greatest invention?

If you asked me that question right now, at this very moment, I’d say the telephone.

On the flip side, if you asked me what humanity’s worst invention is, I’d still say the telephone.

No matter where you are in the world, you can talk to anyone. That’s an incredible thing—it breaks down barriers like nothing else. But at the same time, because you can connect with anyone, it’s also easy to reach out to people you’d rather avoid. And no matter where you are, it becomes harder to cut ties completely.

■■

The day we ran into each other at the supermarket—was that the turning point? Or was it earlier, when I called out to her on that rainy day? Maybe this was always meant to happen.

It wasn’t planned, but before I knew it, Sajo-san started coming over to my place more often. And not just for visits—she’d stay the night.

At first, it felt strange. I mean, a girl her age hanging out at a guy’s place alone—what would people think? But that feeling didn’t last long.

I didn’t mind Sajo-san coming over, and I couldn’t bring myself to turn her away, especially knowing she had family issues.

She’d wake me up in the morning, cook meals, do the laundry, even clean the house… Before I knew it, having Sajo-san around had become part of my daily life.

……Yeah, well. You know?

At first, I felt bad about it, but she insisted on “repaying the favor,” and I couldn’t stop her. Honestly, it made things easier for me, so I didn’t try too hard to refuse. I mean, I did help out too, right? Though it feels weird to say I’m “helping” in my own house.

■■

By July, the rainy season had ended, and summer was in full swing. For that entire month, I spent almost every day with Sajo-san.

School was out for summer break, and before I knew it, August was just around the corner. With nothing to do, I found myself complaining about being bored, even though my desk was piled high with untouched homework. But hey, it’s fine. I still had a whole month left. (Famous last words.)

So, what had changed over the past month? Well, for one, Sajo-san and I were practically living together. That alone was a huge change, but on top of that, the dynamic between us had shifted a bit.

Not so much the nature of our relationship, but the distance between us.

“...How did we end up like this?” I muttered.

“Don’t move.”

“Okay.”

It was the last day of July.

Over the past month, Sajo-san’s cooking had improved dramatically, and I was basking in the blissful satisfaction of a full stomach. As I let myself sink into that small happiness, I found myself nestled between her knees, her arms wrapped around me from behind.

The pressure of her chest against my back was… intense.

By the way, this wasn’t the first time. It had been happening almost every day recently. Why? I had no idea.

It started out of nowhere. One moment, she’d grab my arm, and the next, she’d pull me in like I was prey, holding me close.

Like I was some giant stuffed animal.

The first time it happened, I was flustered and embarrassed. But the softness and comfort of it all made me stop thinking too much about it.

Sometimes, when I’d let myself go completely limp, my head would sink lower, resting on her chest like a pillow. It was like a natural, fluffy cushion. Resisting it felt impossible. I’m a guy, after all—what can I say?

According to Sajo-san, this was her way of “repaying” me, but I wasn’t sure what exactly I’d done to deserve this. Between the bento boxes and everything else, it felt like I was the one reaping all the benefits.

As I buried the back of my head into her chest—a position that felt both amazing and utterly shameless—I couldn’t help but think of it like adopting a cat that had grown unusually attached. …Though, if this were a cat, it’d be way too big by now, I thought, feeling the soft, low-resistance cushion beneath me.

“...”

“...Sajo-san?”

Without a word, Sajo-san’s fingers began tracing my arm, from my shoulder down to the back of my hand. The light scrape of her nails sent a shiver down my spine. Then, she clasped her hand over mine, as if to say she wasn’t letting go. Her grip tightened, and our bodies pressed closer together.

This wasn’t just a one-time thing. Gradually, the physical contact had increased, becoming more frequent and intense.

It started with her fingertips, then her hands. She’d touch my shoulder, stroke my back, and even gently grab my hair.

It felt like a child seeking affection, but at times, it also felt… suggestive.

Each time she touched me, my heart would race like it was about to burst, but it never escalated beyond that.

The expression on Sajo-san’s face when she held me seemed so at ease, like it had nothing to do with romance or desire.

If Sajo-san had ever wanted more… well, I’d had those kinds of pointless fantasies before. But I think she was just seeking the warmth of another person. Feeling her relaxed body against mine, I couldn’t help but think that.

I was like a security blanket for her—something she could hold onto and feel safe with.

Love, romance, lust—none of that was part of this. I knew that.

But in moments like these, I couldn’t help but wish I’d been born a girl. If I were, this level of closeness would’ve been nothing more than innocent playfulness, without any deeper implications.

“Haah…” I let out a sigh, my breath hot with frustration.

“...What’s with the sigh?”

“Just thinking how lucky I am.”

“...”

For some reason, Sajo-san’s grip on my hand tightened. Hey, wait a second? That kind of hurts?

But still, I couldn’t help but think.

As much as I enjoyed her clinging to me like this, it was only a physical closeness.

I didn’t really know much about her.

I had a vague sense that she didn’t get along with her mother, but that was about it.

I only skimmed the surface, never delving deeper.

Not that I wanted to, either.

I didn’t want to pry into Sajo-san’s personal life. It was easier to close my eyes to the unpleasant things and just enjoy the comfort of it all.

This ambiguous relationship felt nice. I didn’t want to ruin it.

I wasn’t living in the present moment, but I didn’t care about her past or future. All that mattered was that Sajo-san was here with me now. That was enough. I found myself wishing this could go on forever.

We didn’t consider each other’s circumstances. It was a stagnant, closed-off kind of happiness.

Some might say that’s wrong.

But if human existence is inherently limited, and each person’s world is like a small, enclosed garden, then seeking happiness within that garden isn’t wrong at all.

I wanted to bask in this lazy happiness, to keep this ambiguous status quo intact.

Our relationship was like that, too.

Classmates? Friends? Best friends? Lovers? Spouses? Or just neighbors?

There was no word to accurately describe what we were, and I didn’t want to force us into any predefined box.

In this vague, undefined space…

“I wish days like this could last forever…”

The words slipped out before I could stop them. I wasn’t expecting a response, but Sajo-san didn’t say anything. Instead, she wrapped her arms around me and held me tighter.

I sank into it. I drowned in it. I was consumed by it.

This moment, which felt like it could last forever, was interrupted by the vibration of my phone. The peaceful, floating sensation I’d been enjoying was abruptly pulled back to reality.

I pulled my phone out of my pocket, still on silent mode.

Ugh, seriously? I reluctantly opened my eyes, annoyed at whoever had disrupted this blissful moment—

“Ugh.”

The sound escaped my lips before I could stop it.

“...Who is it?”

“Uh… no one.”

The voice whispering in my ear sent a shiver down my spine.

It wasn’t sweet—more like cold and matter-of-fact. But feeling her breath so close to my ear made me want to let out some weird noise.

It wasn’t someone I could brush off. I tried to explain briefly, but my phone kept vibrating insistently, demanding I answer. Reluctantly, I lifted my head from the fluffy pillow.

“Sorry, I need to take this.”

I apologized and got up in one swift motion.

Even though it was summer, I felt an unexpected chill as I moved away from Sajo-san.

“...I asked who it was.”

Her voice sounded displeased. I looked over to see her narrowing her dark eyes, her expression sharp.

“Uh…”

I scratched my head.

Not wanting to disturb her by taking the call in the same room, I opened the window leading to the balcony and briefly explained who it was.

“It’s my sister.”

I read the name displayed on my phone screen aloud and tapped the green call button before stepping out onto the balcony.

“Aloha! How’s it going, big bro?”

Her voice was way too cheerful for this time of night, and I couldn’t help but frown.

Even though it was summer, the night air felt cold against my skin as I stepped onto the balcony.

Through the transparent glass, I could feel her sharp gaze from inside the room, but I decided to ignore it. It was probably just my imagination.

Trying not to look back, I leaned against the balcony railing and reluctantly responded to the annoying voice coming through the speaker.

“I can hear you. And what’s with the ‘aloha’? Weren’t you in Hokkaido for work? Where do you think you’re calling from?”

“Oh, come on, it’s fine! I’m in Hokkaido, yeah. I just miss the warm places, you know? Though right now, I’m blasting the AC and eating Häagen-Dazs.”

“Hey.”

I could hear her laughing on the other end of the line.

As usual, she didn’t treat me like her older brother at all. Her playful attitude was starting to give me a headache.

It had been over six months since we’d last seen each other, but it felt like we’d never been apart. She called me like she was just checking in from a trip.

I guess after living under the same roof for over a decade, half a year apart didn’t change much. Though, half a year was more than enough time to grow apart from friends you used to talk to every day in middle school.

The night breeze made me shiver. I didn’t want to drag this out, both for the sake of the person on the phone and the grumpy princess waiting inside.

“So, what’s up?”

“Wow, what’s with the cold response? This is a rare sibling conversation, you know? You could at least act a little more affectionate toward your little sister.”

“Yeah, yeah, you’re so cute.”

“Haha! You’re so half-hearted.”

She laughed, even though I was clearly brushing her off. I guess she didn’t care as long as she got a reaction.

I wanted to get to the point and hang up as soon as possible.

But then I remembered something. I looked up at the dark night sky, trying to gather my thoughts.

Oh, right. There was something I needed to tell her.

Ugh, this is such a pain. But I couldn’t just not bring it up, so I reluctantly steered the conversation in that direction.

“...Uh, so, there’s something I need to tell you.”

“Oh? What is it? Are you giving me an allowance? Yay, money!”

“What? No.”

That came out of nowhere. Why was she already specifying an amount?

“You can never have too much money. There are so many things I want to buy—like, as many as the stars in the sky… right, big bro?”

“Creepy.”

Her sweet tone made me cringe.

“Don’t think you can get away with acting cute with your own brother.”

“I know, right? I knew you’d say that.”

Talking to her always made the conversation spiral in weird directions.

We could go on forever with these pointless, silly exchanges. I guess that’s just how siblings are.

But still, I thought.

Depending on the situation, I might have to bribe her with some pocket money to keep her happy.

After all, what I was about to tell her might not go over well otherwise.

So, gauging her reaction, I carefully continued.

“It’s not that… it’s just, well…”

“Yeah? What is it?”

“…………. I’m, uh, renting a place right now.”

The moment I said it, the conversation came to a screeching halt.

A cold, icy atmosphere seemed to settle over the call. Maybe this was a bad idea?

Feeling uneasy, I waited for her response.

For a moment, there was static on the line, as if the signal had dropped. Then, my sister spoke in an unusually serious tone.

“...What? Are you interested in your little sister’s underwear? I mean, as a brother, that might be normal, but as a person, that’s a big no-no. You should stop.”

“I’m not interested in your underwear, and I never said I was!”

First of all, don’t act like it’s normal for a brother to be like that. That’s just a messed-up brother. We should cut ties.

“Then what is it?”

When she asked that, I hesitated.

I felt awkward, even though she couldn’t see me, and my eyes darted around. But I had to tell her, even if it meant getting scolded.

“I’ve been letting a… friend? Stay at your room.”

The word “friend” felt a bit off as soon as I said it.

There was a long silence.

“If it’s a guy, I’ll kill you.”

The murderous intent was palpable.

It felt like she was holding a knife to my ear.

“It’s a girl.”

I instinctively switched to polite speech. I was scared.

A chill ran through my body, different from the cold night air.

“Oh.”

Her tone lightened, and the murderous aura dissipated. I felt a wave of relief.

My back was drenched in cold sweat. Every time the wind blew, I shivered from the cold.

What would’ve happened if it had been a guy…?

I shook my head. Better not to think about it. Nothing good would come of that.

“Well, I guess it’s good that my brother, who’s never been around girls, finally has the guts to bring one home.”

“What’s with that tone?”

“I raised you,” she said, laughing like it was some kind of joke.

“That’s why I turned out so twisted,” I joked back, and she proudly replied, “You should be thanking me.”

I could almost picture her puffing out her flat chest. Yeah, flat as a board.

“Anyway, bye.”

“Wait, wait, wait, wait!”

I panicked as she was about to hang up.

What did you even call for? Don’t tell me you just wanted to check if I was doing anything inappropriate with a girl?

“Huh?”

She sounded confused, then let out a drawn-out “Oh” as if she’d just remembered something.

“Sorry, sorry. I got so caught up in your love life that I forgot.”

“I never told you about my love life.”

Why would I ever share something like that with my own sister?

That’s just creepy.

But then she let out a surprised “Huh?” as if I’d caught her off guard.

Wait, what’s with that reaction? Don’t tell me…

“I’ve been logging into your adult site account, you know?”

“────. So, what did you call for? It’s getting cold, so hurry up, okay?”

Man, it really is cold. Maybe I’m coming down with something.

For some reason, I felt an urgent need to change my passwords. Immediately. Not that I even have an account on any adult sites—I’m still a minor, after all. I only use the family-friendly versions of those platforms, so this has nothing to do with me!

“Question one: Why are there so many sickly-looking, black-haired, big-breasted girls in your history?”

“Shut up! I’m hanging up! Seriously, stop talking! Please, I’m begging you, I’ll do anything!!!!!!?”

I didn’t care about the time or the neighbors anymore. I just wanted to jump off this balcony and escape to a world free from all constraints. “Question two: Why is there no sister category in your—” “Just stop, please.”

My heart was in tatters, worse than a worn-out rag.

Why was I projecting so hard onto this conversation that had absolutely nothing to do with me? Seriously, it’s not even about me… but how do you even know about my account?!

“So, what did you call for? Spit it out already.”

“You’re so grumpy. Hilarious.”

This sister of mine is the worst.

As I slumped against the balcony railing, she finally got to the point. “Well, you already know this, but…”

“Summer break’s started, so I was just checking if you’ve started preparing for the move.”

……………………Oh.

Time stopped. Or maybe it was just my breathing.

Suddenly, it felt like I’d been transported from my balcony to the top of a mountain, the air thin and hard to breathe. My heart felt like it was about to burst, like an overinflated balloon.

I don’t even remember what we talked about after that.

I just mumbled some responses and hung up. Then I went back inside, reassured Sajo-san that everything was fine, and retreated to my room.

I collapsed onto my bed, sinking into it. For today, I didn’t want to think about anything.

■■

Ever since that call from my sister last night, I hadn’t been able to sleep at all.

All I could think about was the move.

I knew my sister didn’t mean any harm. It was my fault for forgetting that we were supposed to move during summer break.

“But I really didn’t want to hear about it right now.”

Honestly, I didn’t.

In the dim light of the veranda, before the sun had fully risen, I sat on an outdoor chair, lost in thought. Not exactly empty-headed, but rather, my mind was a jumble, overthinking everything.

If I hadn't met Sajo-san, I wouldn't have needed to agonize like this.

I would have just thought, "Oh well, it's a pain, but I guess I'm moving," and that would have been about it.

But spending time with her opened up new possibilities. The option of staying here alone, for one.

The scales of my heart tipped. The weight increased. But it wasn't enough to make a decision.

That's why I'm agonizing. Because there's no decisive factor.

"Maybe… staying will be allowed."

Mom looked worried, but if I explained it properly, she'd understand. Luckily, the apartment is owned, so it's not like we'd be paying extra rent.

So, there's no real problem with staying… technically.

On the opposite side of the scale from Sajo-san, my family sits. It doesn't tip to either side, just swaying back and forth, unstable.

I'm a first-year high school student. If I decide to stay here… to be with Sajo-san, the opportunities to see my family would drastically decrease. Maybe I'd never live with them again.

After graduating high school, I'll go to university. Maybe to attend university, I'll leave home for real and live alone, not in this pseudo-arrangement.

I'd never really thought about it because it was so normal, but now I realize that the number of years I spend living with my family is surprisingly small.

And now, if I choose a path where I don't live under their roof, that number gets even closer to zero.

"Ugh… headache."

I leaned back against the chair. The sun still hadn't risen.

I tilted my head back and looked at the ceiling, but the answer wasn't written there. Just a white wall, slightly stained.

But, you know, I also think…

I have regrets. I'm worried about leaving Sajo-san alone. Most of all, being with her has been the easiest thing in my life so far.

It's not like we talked about something every day, but we were comfortable even in silence. But being together just felt… nice. Just being together was enough.

I think I'm pretty average for a high school boy. My studies, my friendships. Not too far from the norm.

I have friends at school. Guys to talk nonsense with, to goof around with. But it's all kind of superficial, a shallow connection that would break as soon as we graduate high school, or even just change classes.

In the first place, I'm not seeking it. Deep relationships with anyone.

Just putting on a polite smile, joining in on pointless conversations.

Just getting through the moment, getting tired, worn down, then smiling again, repeating the cycle.

I like being alone, and I recover my weakened heart with retro games I've played countless times, games with nothing new. I could only show interest in things I knew were interesting. Failing is terrifying.

Human relationships are the epitome of that, always feeling like you're walking on landmines.

Maybe that's why. I feel a sense of peace with Sajo-san, who is just there with me, without me having to do anything. I thought she was attached to me, but maybe I was the one who was really attached. Makes me chuckle a bit.

Besides, even if we're apart, I'll still be worried about leaving Sajo-san behind.

"…Still haven't solved anything, have I?"

Nothing has changed since that rainy day.

Sajo-san, soaking wet in front of the doorway, hugging her knees. She's started to show smiles, but her essence hasn't changed at all.

I know. Staying over at my place all the time was a kind of escape. Turning away from reality, pretending not to see it. My house was just a refuge.

I understood that, but I went along with it because Sajo-san seemed okay with it, and we didn't delve deeply into each other's family situations.

Partly out of consideration for each other. But really, it was just that I didn't want to break this comfortable relationship. Decadent, lazy. Wishing these days would last forever.

But eternity doesn't exist. And we can't stay stagnant forever. If something triggers movement, we'll have to face reality again.

I don't know Sajo-san's family situation. I haven't tried to find out. So, I can't even imagine what will happen to her if I move and she loses her refuge.

Maybe… I might never see her again. Sometimes I think that. I can't deny the feeling that Sajo-san is fragile, like she might vanish.

"No, no, no way…"

I scratched my head. I can't decide.

I stood up from the chair. I wasn't sleepy, but I just wanted to collapse onto the bed. To empty my head.

"Explaining this to Sajo-san in this state… hmm…"

"Explain what to me?"

An unexpected voice made me yelp out a strange sound. I looked up and saw Sajo-san, opening the window connecting to the living room, looking down at me from the slightly raised floor.

"O-oh, you're awake."

"I want to prepare breakfast."

"Y-yes, thank you for your hard work."

I bowed my head reflexively. …The silence is painful.

I wanted to run away, but Sajo-san was blocking the path to the living room… I feel like she's always blocking my escape routes.

"So, what about me?"

She's even pressing me for answers. I couldn't even try to dodge the question.

I wanted to tell her after my thoughts were more organized, in a proper setting. I'm utterly disgusted with my own bad timing.

Still, if I firmly refuse to say anything, I think Sajo-san would reluctantly back down. I think… but there's no point in hiding it now, is there?

I slumped my shoulders. While rubbing the back of my neck, I decided to explain the situation.

About my father's business trip and my family living elsewhere.

That my current living alone was only for a limited time until summer vacation ended.

That I was originally planning to move, but now I was agonizing over whether to stay or not.

I could tell I was flustered myself, so I don't know if I explained it logically. But I think I conveyed all the information I needed to.

While I was explaining, Sajo-san remained silent the whole time, and I couldn't read what she was thinking from her expression.

When I finished talking, she just said, "I see…"

She didn't seem flustered. Part of me thought, "Is that all?" but another part felt a small dissatisfaction, like there should have been a bit more reaction.

But, that's just my selfishness, I inwardly cautioned myself.

However, it wasn't like there was absolutely no change.

"…"

"…"

Breakfast. The dining table, with no TV on, felt unbearably awkward.

Maybe it was just me feeling self-conscious, but the oppressive atmosphere made it hard to swallow the food. I hesitated to even speak.

"…Um, Sajo-san?"

"…What?"

"Huh? Oh, no… sorry."

I apologized for no reason. It felt like I was with a stranger I'd never spoken to before. Usually, even if we didn't say a word, it never felt like this.

This heavy atmosphere didn't just last for the morning; it lingered through the afternoon and evening.

Most of all, after taking a bath.

Recently, it had become a routine for her to grab me and hug me like a stuffed animal, but she didn't do that. Of course, I couldn't exactly ask, "Why aren't you hugging me?" and combined with the moving situation, a sense of unease piled up in my chest.

Did she hate me? Or is she just worried about the move?

Either way.

Even though I was the one who triggered it, I felt lonely at the sudden distance, and could only sigh like a cat meowing for attention.

■■

Ever since I told her about the move, an awkward atmosphere hung between Sajo-san and me.

We weren't exactly talkative even when we were together at home, but now she's become even more silent.

"…"

"…"

The silent time stretched on.

Only the hollow sound of the TV, playing meaninglessly, echoed loudly in the room.

Even if I disliked this heavy atmosphere, I hadn't solved the root problem myself, so I didn't know what to say.

If I opened my mouth to say anything, "What…?" would come back, cold and sharp as an icicle, piercing my heart.

I don't think she's angry… probably.

But her words, pushing me away, made me unable to say anything, and after raising both hands slightly and averting my eyes, my courage deflated like a balloon, and I'd just say, "It's nothing."

Feeling helpless, I sighed alone.

And so, with no progress, only the clock hands moved forward, and before I knew it, August had begun.

As the deadline approached moment by moment, the awkwardness in the room only increased.

Being with Sajo-san.

Even without talking, a gentle, comfortable air used to flow between us.

Now it's suffocating, and my body feels heavy.

Even when I'm home, I can't relax, and even though I try to keep her out of my sight as much as possible, my attention is still focused on Sajo-san.

It seemed to be the same for Sajo-san too.

Or rather, even though her expression remained flat and unchanged, in some ways, the changes in her were more obvious than in me these past few days.

"Ah…"

A deflated-sounding voice, followed by the sound of a plate breaking.

Or, just when I thought she was hugging her knees on the floor cushion, she'd suddenly look up like a cat and rush to the washroom, and then the washing machine would start spinning emptily. Come to think of it, I realized I had started the washing machine in the morning but hadn't hung the clothes out to dry.

There were also many other unusual mistakes for the usually reliable Sajo-san, like leaving the stove burner on, or filling the bathtub with the plug pulled.

"Sorry…" she'd say, rubbing her upper arm and looking down, appearing unusually small. There shouldn't be much height difference between us, but she looked like a child being scolded by a parent. But I'm not her parent, so I couldn't possibly scold the dejected Sajo-san, and all I could do was say a line that wasn't even comforting, "Ah… don't worry about it."

Even though I knew that she wouldn't really not worry about it with those words.

"…I'm going out now."

At the entrance, I saw Sajo-san off with a "See you later," as she was clad in her usual black hoodie.

The time was just past three in the afternoon.

It was still bright outside during this summer hour, the sun blazing intensely. Normally, there would be no reason to see her off if she was just going shopping.

So, I suggested going with her, but she declined with a simple, "It's alright," leaving me feeling slightly hurt and just replying, "O-okay."

I watched Sajo-san leave, then retreated to the living room with a wounded heart and slumped heavily onto the floor cushion.

To think, she wouldn't even let me accompany her on errands anymore... I practically folded in on myself, hanging my head low.

"This feels kind of like... before a couple living together breaks up..."

Just voicing it made it feel oddly real.

It's not like that. It's not like that, but…

"Ugh," I groaned, stretching my upper body out like a shrimp.

I was restless and listless.

As if being steamed by the summer humidity, I just couldn't settle down.

I couldn't focus on anything, just sitting, standing, and writhing around – actions that would probably irritate anyone watching.

While I was occupied with this, the short hand of the clock made two full rotations.

"She's late..."

Looking out the window, even though it was summer with long days, the sky was covered in dark clouds, making it gloomy.

It might rain.

Perhaps that's why I thought so.

Drip... drip... the first drops started falling slowly, like a hesitant run.

Before I knew it, the sound of rain striking the ground intensified, and a cool, refreshing background melody began to play.

Along with it, a restless feeling.

My body fidgeted as if irritated.

"Is Sajo-san alright?"

Her late return, coupled with the rain starting, pushed my worry to its peak.

Before I realized it, I couldn't even sit still anymore, pacing back and forth in the hallway connecting the living room to the entrance, wondering if I should go to meet her.

"No... I'll go."

Yes, I should go. That's what I'll do.

I took plenty of time to make up my mind. I'm well aware of my indecisiveness, but I couldn't bear the worry any longer.

At the entrance, I slipped on my sneakers like sandals and grabbed two vinyl umbrellas from the cupboard.

Just as I was about to rush out, the lock turned on its own, making me jump.

Frozen in place, I watched as the front door hesitantly opened, and a slightly damp Sajo-san stepped inside from the shadows of the doorway.

"...!"

Perhaps she hadn't expected me to be here; her eyes widened slightly, as if lifting her water-beaded eyelashes.

However, when her gaze shifted to the vinyl umbrellas I had draped over my arm, she seemed to understand the situation, murmuring in a slightly hoarse voice, "You were worried about me."

"Ah, uh,"

A meaningful sound wouldn't come out amidst this unexpected encounter.

I should just honestly say that I was worried, but for some reason, it felt embarrassing, and all that escaped my throat were drawn-out groans like "aah" and "ooh."

"Rihito—"

"I-I'll get a towel!"

As if to interrupt whatever Sajo-san was about to say, I turned my back and fled.

I needed to calm down for a moment.

I reached to touch my forehead, then realized the umbrella handle was still hanging on my arm.

How clumsy of me. Dejected, I turned back to put down the umbrellas, when—

"Meow."

"...? Meow?"

I heard a sound like a cat's meow and stopped in my tracks, still facing away.

Could it be, was Sajo-san imitating a cat? I looked up, and as if understanding the meaning of my gaze, she slowly shook her head from side to side.

Instead, her eyes fell to her chest.

Following her gaze, I noticed she was carrying shopping bags on her arm.

I thought that was all, but then I realized she was also cradling something in her arms.

To support the large breasts that pushed up her black hoodie from below, it was positioned rather high.

Staring intently, my eyes met golden pupils, and I widened my own in surprise.

And then, this time, clearly.

Opening its small mouth, it let out a "mrrp," and I finally noticed that a black cat was nestled on Sajo-san's chest.

Envia— no, that's not it.

"A cat?"

At my words, Sajo-san averted her gaze, looking somewhat awkward. As she did, droplets of water scattered from her damp hair.

"…Yeah," she confirmed quietly, then explained hesitantly, "I found it... under a park bench…"

Her explanation was a bit vague, but I understood she meant she'd brought it home because it was raining and she felt sorry for the poor thing. I decided to just accept that.

However, the word "park" made me frown slightly.

So, that's why she was late getting back.

A pang of loneliness, sharp as a draft, went through me. But there was no use dwelling on it now.

"Could we... keep it? Just until the rain stops, maybe…?"

Her hesitant question, delivered with a timidity that truly fit the word "fearful," reminded me of a child pleading with a parent.

I really wish she'd trust me a little more.

I started to say it, but stopped myself. Was it too much to ask for trust when I was the one making her anxious about the move? Maybe it was a bit arrogant.

"Well, it's not like our building bans pets, so I guess keeping it for a day or so is alright."

I agreed to her request in a slightly roundabout way.

She seemed relieved; her eyes softened almost imperceptibly at the corners. Thinking about how she rarely showed her emotions, I gently stroked the chin of the black cat, who was now luxuriating on the most comfortable cushion.

Seeming quite used to people, it didn't show any signs of protest and just squinted its eyes contentedly.

I reached out a finger and checked the shiny silver tag hanging from its navy collar. On the back, engraved were "Roco," presumably its name in katakana, and some numbers that looked like a phone number.

"Well, first things first, we should probably check with the owner."

A little bell jingled.

■■

"– Yes. No, it’s alright. Thank you for letting me know."

I pulled the phone away from my ear and pressed the red end call button.

When I called the phone number engraved on the tag, I was greeted by a gentle, elderly voice that belonged to what I easily imagined was a kindly old woman.

Something about her voice made me think she was flustered. When I told her that we had taken in a black cat named "Roco," a sigh of relief and regret washed over the speaker, hitting my ear.

The owner of the black cat named Fuku-i kept apologizing so many times that I was the one feeling bad.

"…How did it go?"

"Hmm. With weather like this, she'd appreciate it if we could keep her until tomorrow."

While explaining this to Sajo-san, who seemed restless on the floor cushion – probably because she was the one who picked up the cat – I glanced out the window.

What a summer-like weather pattern, or should I say...

The weather was like a lie compared to the daytime, it's pouring outside. The windows were shaking in the wind, and I could hear the rumbling of thunder in the distance. It'd be difficult to come pick her up in this weather. I suggested it myself, which probably made her feel even worse, but the circumstances were what they were.

"Roco."

When I called her name, she looked up and came over to my feet.

She’s really friendly.

I squatted down and gently stroked her head.

"Even if it's just for one day, I wonder what we should do?"

I've never owned a cat, or any animal for that matter.

I do have a capricious, free-spirited younger sister like a cat, but I guess that experience doesn’t really count.

"Sajo-san, have you ever owned any animals?"

When I asked, she froze for a moment before shaking her head from side to side.

Well, I was expecting that, so I wasn't disappointed, but the problem of what to do remained.

I couldn't just leave her alone until tomorrow.

As I was worrying about what to do, Roco left my side and jumped onto Sajo-san's lap.

"…"

They stared at each other.

The color of clothing and the color of fur. I was just thinking maybe all-black things attract each other, when she sneezed, "achoo!"

Sajo-san lowered her head. As if mimicking her, Roco also bowed her head.

Now then. Whose sneeze was that just now?

"Well, let's give her a bath for now."

I suggested warming up their bodies before they catch a cold, but they only looked down, heads bowed.

There was no need to be embarrassed, though. It was cute, but...

As a side note, while Sajo-san and the black cat Roco were taking a bath together, I lightly searched about how to take care of cats on my phone.

It's not like we're going to keep her, but we’re taking care of an important family member.

I should at least know what to be careful about.

I searched with related words, like “how to raise a cat,” but there were too many results, which was a problem.

There were even tips on how to welcome a cat, but that’s too basic.

I leaned back against the floor cushion and groaned.

"I should have asked her when I was on the phone."

I recalled the back-and-forth of apologies and meekness and reconsidered that there wasn’t any room to ask.

Even while regretting it, there’s the internet, which teaches me anything. I randomly searched the search results and came across what I wanted to know.

"Hmmm. A lot of cats don't like baths."

…Hoh?

What does that mean? As I was trying to imagine what would happen, the sound of things crashing came from the bathroom. Faint screams and meows, too.

"Don't struggle…!"

It was rare for Sajo-san, who’s usually so low-key, but I heard a flustered voice. The sound of light, quick footsteps rang out.

"Whoa."

Imagining the chaotic scene in the bathroom made me feel weak.

When I turned around, something black came out from the gap in the changing room's sliding door and dashed through my vision. It then dove behind the curtain.

She really hated it, huh? I was thinking that, when—

"Get back here…!"

Sajo-san seemed to be chasing after her.

As Roco was hiding behind the curtain, I turned my head at the sound of the voice and lost my words.

Drip, drip, droplets of water fell onto the hallway. Sajo-san jumped out of the changing room.

However, she was stark naked, exposing her slender yet shapely body.

'––'

Our eyes met. Time stopped.

There weren't any words. Only the sound of water dripping from her body echoed in the room.

My head went blank from the sudden event.

But my vision was working just fine.

Her skin, warmed and flushed. Her hair, clinging to her cheek, reflecting with a lustrous sheen.

More than anything, her breasts, which I would never normally see –

"–!"

Bam!

Without changing her expression, she calmly, but with unrestrained strength, closed the changing room's sliding door.

The loud noise forcibly cut off the visual information. As to how vividly I could remember it, well, the less said, the better.

Having sensed that the danger had passed, Roco, who had somehow come out from behind the curtain, jumped onto my lap, unrepentant, letting out a "meow."

Of course, since she escaped mid-bath, her body was wet, and the moisture slowly seeped into my lap.

The golden pupils that looked up at me didn't mean any harm.

"…Well, let’s dry you off for now."

I didn't feel like scolding her. I patted her still warm back, filling it with emotions that I couldn't express.

Having finished her bath, Sajo-san came out of the bathroom with a towel on her head, still with wet hair, and flopped down onto her usual floor cushion.

Without saying anything, she hugged her knees. Her expression was hidden by the towel, so I couldn't guess it.

The awkward air flowing between Sajo-san and me was different from the morning, making it difficult to talk to her.

It wasn’t that one was better than the other. It was that they were both different kinds of hell.

"Mrrp."

Roco curled up on my lap.

She didn’t have any wariness, or maybe she was just craving body heat.

That reminds me, her appearance and actions really resemble someone, I thought, as I stroke her beautiful coat to distract myself from the heavy atmosphere.

"Fluffy."

Actually, this is the first time I've ever touched a cat.

I sometimes see stray cats, but they run away if I try to get close. They are familiar animals, but exist from afar.

As I was petting her and thinking that she’s like an idol, she rubbed her nose against my fingertip, making my cheeks relax.

"So cuuute."

Generally, I think that any cat would be wary of strangers and unfamiliar places, but there’s no sign of that with this kitty.

I also thought that perhaps cats who are raised by people just lose their wildness, but I don’t know the truth.

But, as she purrs and rubs her body against me, I don’t care about anything happening with other cats in the world.

"Makes me want to own a cat."

"Mrrp."

As I was petting her, a hand reached out from the side, making my eyes widen.

Roco was then suddenly picked up.

Looking over, Sajo-san was hugging Roco, placing the cat in such a way so it was resting on her chest.

On there, huh?

I was more surprised by the fact that Roco was on her chest than by the fact that Roco was stolen from me.

I thought it must be comfortable, but whether she didn't like it or what, she slipped out of Sajo-san's hands like an eel and scurried back to me.

Purring... how cute.

"What? Did she get attached to me?"

"…Not cute."

She pouted and hid her face in her knees.

"Are you jealous?"

A little bit of superiority.

"…It's not like that."

Her voice was stiff. Was she being stubborn?

That stubborn attitude looked childish, which made me smile, and then my stomach announced its hunger with a loud rumble.

Now that I think about it, I haven't eaten anything since picking up the cat.

Was it just a passing shower? The rain that had been falling so loudly had stopped. Replacing the dark rain clouds was the night sky, covering like a veil.

The sun had long sunk, so of course I'd be hungry.

Sajo-san, having let the towel slip off her head, glanced at the clock and tried to stand up.

"I'll prepare dinner."

"Ah, okay. Please."

When I said that, Sajo-san froze, halfway up.

I was troubled because it looked like I could see into the neckline of her loose shirt.

That vivid, seductive memory.

Trying to avoid a repeat of what happened earlier, I timidly averted my gaze, and Sajo-san asked,

"What should I feed that one?"

"…Cat food?"

I said, but of course, my house, where I don’t own cats, doesn't stock that kind of thing–

"Well, I guess it'd turn out like this."

And so, I ended up going shopping alone at the nearby convenience store.

There weren't even any customers in the store, not to mention a clerk at the register.

I was wondering if they were in the back, but I ended up calling the owner and asking about what to feed her as I searched the shelves.

"Which one is it?"

I don't usually buy cat food, so I don't know. My eyes are glazing over.

As I narrowed my eyes and intently looked at the names of each food, I suddenly realized Sajo-san's reaction earlier, and the reason for it.

"…Was she pouting not because the cat wasn't getting attached to her, but because I was paying too much attention to the cat?"

I voiced it and pondered about it.

If that's the case, then it makes sense why she suddenly stole away the black cat.

If that's the case,

"I'm a little happy… ah, found it."

I grabbed the target cat food and pulled it off the shelf.

"I'm home~"

I called out when I got back home, but there was no reply.

I became sad that she finally stopped even saying welcome back, but I heard a meow from the kitchen, and the tears that were about to spill receded.

"Hmm."

Stroking my chin, I walked down the hallway, quieting my footsteps.

I quietly opened the door to the living room and slowly peeked into the kitchen.

"Meow."

Roco was the one meowing.

"…Meow."

And Sajo-san was putting water into a small dish and giving it to Roco. She was squatting down in an apron, playing with the cat.

With a blank expression. She swayed her slender fingers like a metronome, and Roco was receiving a cat punch.

Was she loving her, or was she just killing time?

I couldn't tell from her expression, but it was heartwarming to see.

"...? ...!"

Sajo-san finally noticed me, and she shuddered.

We stared at each other without a word.

Only Roco, as if wanting more attention, meowed "meow," which was surreal.

"…It'll be ready soon. Wipe the table or something and wait."

Standing up quickly, she went back to standing in the kitchen as if nothing had happened.

But, at her feet, Roco, who had been playing around, slipped between Sajo-san's legs and nuzzled against her.

"You guys became friends, huh."

"…Not really."

"Not really," she replied curtly, not even glancing my way.

But her body spoke volumes.

Time had passed, and the bathwater must have cooled down by now, yet the ear peeking out from her side hair was flushed red.

More than anything, her careful steps, making sure not to step on Roco, were clearly actions taken out of consideration for the little creature at her feet.

"Looks like Sajo-san might get stolen away," I chuckled. Her cheeks puffed up slightly, "It's not like that," she retorted.

The next day.

Around midday, the owner, the elderly woman, came to pick up Roco.

Her voice was exactly as I'd imagined from our phone call.

The kind-looking old lady repeated "Thank you" and "I'm sorry" over and over.

She tried to give me money for the cat food and as a thank you, but I politely declined, saying we were happy to help.

She seemed utterly apologetic, but as if sensing her owner's presence, Roco came trotting out from the back of the room, bells jingling.

Seeing her safe and sound pet, the old woman's face softened, and her eye wrinkles deepened as she welcomed Roco who came running to her.

"Thank you so much, really."

The old woman kept bowing her head until the end, before putting Roco in a carrier bag and taking her home.

As she left, I could see golden eyes peeking out from the bag's opening, and I waved a small "Bye-bye."

A sudden, unexpected encounter.

Even though it was just one day, I felt attached, I thought, squinting my eyes. Then Sajo-san asked, "Are you lonely?"

"...A little, but family comes first, after all."

I indirectly implied that we couldn't keep her.

Honestly, I felt a pang of regret, enough to make me want to keep her, but owning a pet is not a decision to be made lightly. Especially not in our current situation where we might be moving soon.

"If... you didn't want to return her?"

"…Well, yeah."

How should I answer that?

I hesitated, thinking.

I still haven't found the answer to that lingering question in my heart.

"Isn't it up to how the person feels?"

The words that came out were only something bland and safe.

"I see…"

Sajo-san murmured, as if it were nothing.

She then walked out the entrance and leaned against the wall, burying her face in her folded arms.

I don't know if she was looking down at the old woman and Roco from there.

But I noticed she didn't say goodbye until the very end.

I watched her slightly forlorn back and thought.

The black cat that Sajo-san unexpectedly picked up.

It has a strong image as an ominous symbol, but it seems it brought good luck to me.

The heavy, awkward atmosphere had eased since the day we spent with the black cat.

Our stilted conversations returned to being calm and gentle like before, and I no longer broke into a cold sweat just being in the living room together.

It's all thanks to Roco-sama, the black cat, but not everything is completely back to normal.

She still doesn't wake me up in the mornings, and any physical contact, even a fingertip, is avoided.

More than anything, I'm concerned that Sajo-san has been going out more often.

Even if I ask, she just gives her usual curt reply of "Nowhere in particular."

No matter how much luck Roco brought, it seems nothing will be resolved unless I take action.

"I really need to decide about the move soon…"

I grumbled as I opened the entrance door, returning from the convenience store.

In my hand was a convenience store bag filled to the brim with high-calorie snacks and sodas.

Usually, Sajo-san would confiscate them, saying they're bad for my health, and my chances to eat them were limited, but today, like many days recently, Sajo-san had gone out somewhere.

While I was worried, I also wondered if it was impudent of me to bring in these forbidden items while she was out.

However, the lingering cold war with Sajo-san was giving me more stress than I'd anticipated.

Stress relief is necessary, right? I put up that banner of justification—and then, "Welcome home," greeted me, and a cold sweat burst out all over my body.

"S-Sajo-san… you were home."

"Just now."

When I looked up, Sajo-san was dressed stylishly in a white shirt and hot pants.

She usually tends to choose clothes that don't expose much skin, even in summer, so I was surprised to see her legs bare.

Sensing my gaze, she quickly pulled her legs back. She rolled up her sleeves, revealing her slender arms, and started stroking them restlessly. It somehow made me feel restless too.

"…You went to the convenience store."

"Ah, yeah… um."

Sajo-san's gaze fell, to the snack foods, the sodas, and so on.

Her eyes stopped on the plastic bag filled with forbidden items.

I felt a tension like being caught at a checkpoint and swallowed hard. I wondered if I was going to get scolded and hid the plastic bag behind my back.

Her eyes narrowed sharply for a moment, making my heart jump.

But, she didn't reprimand me, and for some reason, Sajo-san herself avoided eye contact, as if running away.

Her unexpected reaction left me completely bewildered.

"Is something wrong?"

"No…"

Her reaction was strangely dull.

More than awkward, she seemed absent-minded, like her mind was somewhere else.

Just as I was wondering if something had happened, Sajo-san started rubbing her upper arms as if hugging herself.

Even though it was so hot in front of the entrance that sweat wouldn't stop, she reacted as if she was terribly cold.

She stood on one leg, intertwined her legs, and swayed her body gently as Sajo-san's cheeks flushed red.

Then, looking up at me with worried eyebrows and bending her body forward slightly, she gazed up at me like a young girl begging for something.

"...Could you... go on a date with me the day after tomorrow?"

Something rustled and collapsed in the bag.