Romantic Date (7)

And so, Anzu-san was able to intervene fast.

She quickly contacted the director—and then came up with a solution. Basically, “maybe the pairing is inadequate” is what they concluded.

With me and HiMERU-san together, we can’t quite properly act like “characters in a dating simulator”. So, we thought we would be better off pairing up instead with our close friends.

And that’s why you called us, as pairing candidates.

Well, HiMERU-han is pretty hard on Rinne-han and Niki-han, but he’s got some sort of soft spot for me.

I wonder if he’d have trouble showing fondness, much less be able to act like a “character in a dating sim”.

Yes. Though I’m still unsure if that would be the “correct” answer, since the director seems to have a peculiar set of morals.

But still, it’s better than doing the same thing in circles. If you keep trying your luck until you hit a jackpot then you’ll have to win eventually for sure.

I feel the same. I’m sorry to trouble you both, but I would be grateful if you could help us out.

Nonsense. If my unitmate’s in trouble then I’ve gotta lend him a hand right?

Ah, right! I’m not sure how I’m going to be able to assist, but I’ll make sure to do my best! Uuu! Tatsumi-san probably considers me a close friend for “ALKALOID” so that must mean he called me for that reason! I couldn’t be more honored, I’m so happy I feel as if I could collapse!

Not exactly, I let Anzu-san choose. She’s a talented producer, so I trusted she’d be able to pick the “correct” combinations.

I-is that so?! I’m sorry for getting so excited over a misunderstandingggg!

I was full of myself for thinking that I was the only special one, but Tatsumi-san you have love for all beings, don’t you?!

Fufu. I’m not that much of a Saint. I’m not even trying to be one, but now–

…?

It appears you’ve all gathered.

Hiyah?!

HiMERU-han. Where’ve you been off to all by yourself?

Apologies for acting unusually. Unfortunately, HiMERU hadn’t been feeling well so he went to the restroom in that convenience store there for a bit.

Are you okay? Now that you mention it, you don’t look too hot HiMERU-han…?

Yes, it doesn’t affect HiMERU’s behavior so he is fine. He doesn’t want to stay any longer in this ridiculous situation either, so let’s finish this today.

R-right…? Just take it easy, okay?

(How careless…Telling Tatsumi about HiMERU’s condition and asking for his assistance may have been a mistake.)

(In order for HiMERU to fix this whole situation, he would have to “win over” someone to beat the game. His theory is that by doing so, his brain will finally realize the game is over and return to reality.)

(Since there was no one else around, HiMERU supposed he’d try to “win over” Tatsumi, but in order to do that, he’d have to increase his affinity.)

(Once the affinity is high enough, one could propose to the other and vice-versa. If both sides are consenting and they accept the proposal, then the marriage is complete.)

(When it comes to Ai-stars, the roll credits will then play out, and the game will finish. Or—to put it differently—the game will be beat. However, the just the thought of trying to increase Tatsumi’s affinity is horrible—)

? What’s the matter, HiMERU-san? You look dizzy, I’m worried you might faint!

Fufu. Let’s hold hands like we did just a bit ago, and I’ll support you.

…?!

Right, gyugyuuuu¹…I love you, HiMERU-san~

…

Are you alright?! Just now, your eyes turned completely white!?

Everything is fine. Nothing is wrong. It’s just that for a moment HiMERU was so disgus—

Nono, HiMERU just felt a little exhausted because of his current condition. Yes, that’s all.

Are you sure you’re feeling okay…?

W-what do you mean by holding hands…? A-and did I just hear him say “I love you”…? Eh? Eh?! Just what is going on with you two…?!

We are neither close friends nor lovers!

Hiiiii! Please don’t shout so suddenly!

Apologies. We’re just trying to put effort into this our own way, so we’re trying countless things in order to be like “characters in a dating simulator”.

A-ah, so that’s how it is. You’re not actually in love, just acting…

Obviously. It’s true that something like this might give you the wrong idea, but we have no other choice. HiMERU would really like to get out of this situation already.

But I’m having such a good time though…

It’s not as bad nowadays, but specifically growing up I never truly had a close connection with anyone.

Now that I’m thinking about it, I’m pretty sure I’m living a lonelier life than I thought. Is it because I’ve never had a close relationship with someone that I’m unable to act in a romantic way?

…