Listen, actually it's my first time - Ch 1

Chapter 1 – A Playboy(?), and Yet a Virgin

[Kaburagi Shun, 27 of April]

A year ago. I’d been so nervous around the time I’d just enrolled in this Hareoka High School, and every day I’d been on my edge and put on an effort to build up friendships starting from zero friends. At that time, just about everything had been fresh as well as fun, but on the other end, it had been both physically as well as mentally exhausting.

While looking at the highly excited new first-year students wearing their brand new uniform, I got into a nostalgic feeling while putting on an air of seniority as I’d safely moved up to second-year.

I entered the second-year classroom I was still not used to, and said my greeting that wasn’t aimed at anyone in particular. “Good morning.”

“Good morning, Shun.”

“Mornin’.”

“Sup.”

I got greeted back from all over inside the classroom. As soon as I sat down on my seat while having a friendly, light chat with several of my classmates, my friend Gakuto sat down on top of my desk while making a grin.

“Shun, just what did you do to Minami-chan from San High?”

“Nah not really, I didn’t do anything, y’know? We just went out to grab a bite like normal.”

“‘Course not, right? Like y’know, Minami-chan’s friends and my friends are connected. Her grudging voice reached all the way to my ears. ‘Kaburagi Shun is a cruel man playing around with a woman’s heart,’ or so I heard.”

I couldn’t help but furrow my brows. It seemed the rumor was spreading in an unintended direction.

“Eh… The hell? I mean like, I went out together with her since she said she’d totally give up on me if we had a date just once, and yet. It’s different from what she told me…”

“Well, being together with you probably just made her not able to give up. It probably became a good lesson for Minami-chan, who dreamed a little of being together with Kaburagi Shun, who is a good-looking playboy, and hangs out with some huge number of girls without getting any girlfriend in particular.”

Something like a good-looking playboy was a shameful nickname, but I’d learned in this past year that no matter how much I’d try to deny it, nobody would listen to me anyway, so I’d come to give up making any protests since I forgot when.

“Look who’s talking. Was it because you got slapped by a girl that your left cheek’s swelling?”

“Yeah. Got hit with all she’s got, but can’t be helped. When thinking I’ve cut off any connection with a high-maintenance woman, I’d say it’s a cheap price,” Gakuto said and rubbed his left cheek.

This guy was Mori Gakuto, a man referred to as Hareoka High School’s number one playboy.

He was tall and kinda looked slightly scary, but anyway, he was extremely popular, maybe because he was sociable and attentive to girls. From my point of view, he was an unbelievable playboy; as he lacked chastity, and the number of people he got experience with as a second-year in high school was about the same as the homeroom teacher’s age.

As a set of two, Gakuto and I were looked on with hostility by some guys as Hare High’s playboy duo. The number of our friends were many more than the number of those guys, so we were able to lead our school life without an issue, but if this ratio were to end up getting reversed, it would simply be tough. This is where I’d like to have no further rumors involving girls.

“But going like this time sure is rare, isn’t it? You basically can get along with the girl you rejected, Shun. Whether it’s kind or cruel, I’ve got no clue, though.”

“I’m just gonna leave that to the girl. It’s not for me to think about, and something like being cold to a girl is just impossible for me.”

“This is what they call the suffering of a hottie, huh. Just being kind a little would make them fall for you, jealous of you and stuff, so it sure sounds tough.”

Having taken out his phone while smiling differently, Gakuto was swiftly moving his fingers to write a message.

“As quick as ever. I believe your typing speed is Japan’s best, for real.”

“‘Cause girls just love attentive guys. I’ll give my all until I get to do it.”

As high school students in the second year which was referred to as right in the center of youth, we would mostly be at the age of the protagonist if this was a manga.

As if being urged on by something, as if being roused up by something, everyone possessed some kind of passion or desire, and was searching for something they could be crazy about, be it studies, club activities, hobbies, or love.

Gakuto was popular with girls, but if I were to be more direct, he was classified as the type who was passionate about having sex with girls. Actually, friends all around me were all that type, so if it was looked from the outside, I was probably also thought to be a member of the same group who was enjoying my youth playing around with girls all the time.

Looking objectively, all the male friends and girls I would always hang out with got exceptional looks and seemed showy. The way they’d wear their uniform so casually and what they’d wear were fashionable, and they got the characteristics of having high communication skills where they could pleasantly talk with just about anyone like it was natural.

It was a group I’d often hang out with, in which especially showy guys and girls even among the so-called outgoing people in class would gather. All of those in this group without exception had gone through their first time back around middle school.

With the exception of me, Kaburagi Shun.

“You sure can be so passionate about sex. I do think that part of you is so unbelievable.”

“Sex is nice, y’know? Won’t you get me once you un-virgin yourself too, Shun?” Gakuto said in a small voice and smiled broadly.

I looked around in panic, and after confirming that no one had heard this guy’s words, I said, “Shut it,” and looked away.

Other than Gakuto, my close friend, no one knew.

The fact that I, Kaburagi shun, someone called a playboy, was actually a virgin.

In the group I’d always be with, this kind of conversation would frequently happen as a part of our daily conversation.

“I’ve got no money this month, but there’s not enough rubber. Oh God, bless me please.”

“So like, I’ve got a date today, but my girlfriend is on her period. It’s tough, man.”

“My new boyfriend was, like, trying to have sex every time we met, so we got into a fight recently.”

I’d been denying the playboy rumor at first, but I’d gradually come to hold worry, wondering if they’d get put off or I’d be made fun of if I were to confess that I was actually a virgin to my friends who would frankly talk about their sex life.

And in the time I hadn’t been able to summon the courage, the feeling of wanting to deny the playboy rumor had been shifting little by little towards absolutely not wanting to get found being a virgin, and so here we were now with me wearing the mask of a playboy.

I wondered, why in the first place I, someone who had never dated a girl let alone sex and couldn’t be on the same sentiment at all, was hanging out with them. I wondered why, why I got to be called a playboy.

Outgoing and yet, a virgin. Called good-looking and yet, a virgin. A playboy and yet, a virgin?

My school life was made up of a distorted mask and immature pretensions.

☆

Although it may be a bit long-winded, I'd like to tell you about myself.

When I was in middle school, I was considered part of the boring group.

I didn’t participate in sports clubs, didn’t care about fashion, always wore my uniform neatly according to school regulations, and wore thick prescription glasses. Even so, I was still friendly with my friends, content with my everyday life, and thought I could live like this until I became a college student.

But everything changed the day I fell in love with a girl during the entrance exam for Hareoka High School.

That day, I had an accident, causing my glasses to break on the train platform. In my blurred vision, she came to help me.

She said she was also applying to Hareoka, so she led me to the exam room. Not only that, after the exam, she was still concerned about me and waited with me until my parents came to pick me up.

Even though my vision was poor, I could still recognize the face of the girl who had always been there for me.

She had black hair tied in two braids and gave an impression of being well-behaved. For the first time, I was so happy and my heart raced because a girl was talking to me like this.

I quickly realized what these feelings were. I remember reading somewhere that love isn’t something you can grasp, but something you can only fall into.

We had only introduced ourselves by name, and there was no guarantee we’d both be accepted to Hareoka, so we promised to exchange contact information once the results came out.

I will never forget the beautiful name she gave me: Nakamura Hiyori.

I thought someone like me didn’t deserve such a cute girl. So, I decided to change myself in order to make her like me.

I switched from glasses to contact lenses. I cut my hair short and styled it with gel. I trimmed my eyebrows, wore my uniform a bit messily. Although I wasn’t knowledgeable about fashion, I still tried to dress in casual clothes that were suitable and not too outdated.

My friends might laugh and say this was a “makeover for high school debut,” but my desire to change for her was stronger.

And then, the day of the results announcement came.

I went to Hareoka High School, but I couldn’t find her.

I had a hunch that she was probably at school too, but maybe she checked the results online, so we didn’t meet.

I was a little disappointed, but I thought she definitely passed, and we’d reunite at the opening ceremony. My hope of seeing her again grew even more.

When I found her name on the class list during the opening ceremony, I was extremely excited. Although we were in different classes, I wanted to greet her right away. But then, I saw something that shocked me the most in recent years.

The girl I had been thinking about day and night had dyed her hair a bright color, wore a short skirt, and had a dazzling style.

Even though I knew it was important to dress simply for the exam, I was so confused because it was completely different from the image I remembered.

And she seemed just as surprised when she saw me. Her eyes widened, and she kept asking if I was really Kaburagi.

“Eh… Kaburagi-kun? R-really?”

“Y-yeah. It’s me, Kaburagi Shun. Um… are you Nakamura-san?”

“Yep, that’s me. Wow, your vibe is totally different, so I was really surprised. But, we both passed, so I’m glad! I hope you’ll take care of me from now on!”

Although my appearance had changed so much, her voice was still the same, the girl who made my heart flutter, so I felt reassured. However, I was so emotional that I completely forgot to exchange contact information right at that moment.

So, I, the one who had watched her from afar, began my days of daydreaming. Besides our appearances, the other big change was that I unexpectedly became part of the outgoing group when I entered high school.

I didn’t dislike extroverts when I was in middle school, so I could still talk to them normally and felt happy being around them. But the thing that confused me the most was the difference in male-female relationships.

Everyone had already lost their virginity back in middle school, and many had been in at least three relationships. Some were even dating two people, cheating, or being in casual relationships. Listening to the 18+ stories in the group, I would laugh along, but I honestly didn’t understand any of it.

Since I was still a virgin, I felt awkward and didn’t willingly talk about “down there,” and when asked, I would avoid the question.

“When did Shun lose his virginity? Don’t tell me it was in elementary school?”

"I don’t remember anymore… I always feel like it’s the first time."

"You mean you don’t do it with the same person twice... Wow, Shun, you’re really on a whole other level."

In reality, I had no experience, so saying I always felt like it was the first time wasn’t entirely wrong. It seems like I was misunderstood, but I guess that’s fine?

"When you’re doing that, girls often fake it, right? How do you figure that out, Shun?"

"Um... I think it’s not necessary to figure it out. If you feel uncomfortable with how considerate the girl is, then the guy should try harder."

"That makes sense... You shouldn’t criticize her, just try harder for her! Thanks, Shun! Your advice is really helpful!"

I’ve never seen a girl's reaction during that, except in adult videos (AV), so I can’t really tell if it’s real or fake. But a girl's pleasure probably depends not only on herself but also on the guy. Oh, wait, I’m speaking as if I have a lot of experience, even though I’m still a virgin. Is that wrong...?

By mixing common views with my own thoughts in my answer, I was unjustly called a "true playboy, extremely confident," even though I was still a virgin.

I didn’t know how to stop the rumors that were spreading without caring about the truth or my attempts to explain.

At first, when the rumors were just beginning, I tried to explain, saying, "I’m not a playboy" or "Actually, I’m still a virgin," but not only did they ignore me, they even advised me, "You should stop pretending to be humble or lying, it’s just going to annoy everyone." So, I gave up on trying to explain.

Over time, the image of Kaburagi Shun as a playboy slowly became ingrained in everyone’s mind.

I was afraid that if it came out that I was still a virgin, people would think I was a liar, and my relationships would collapse, so I had to maintain the facade.

I understood that the extrovert group had its own rules and aesthetics, and following them was important in school life. The old saying "When in Rome, do as the Romans do" still holds true for students today.

I thought as long as my friends were happy, school life would be meaningful.

But sometimes, I still felt exhausted trying to adjust my story to fit with everyone else, not breaking the image of "Kaburagi Shun, the playboy" that they had imagined.

So, what about my one-sided love for Nakamura-san?

Although my friends and hers were open-minded and social with people from other classes and grades, due to past conflicts between the girls in our two groups, the relationship between the two groups was almost nonexistent.

Moreover, for other reasons, I still couldn’t take action.

That’s why, up to now, I still haven’t been able to talk to her or even ask for her phone number.

What do you mean by "playboy"? It's really just an empty title.

The two big changes were within myself and my environment.

And they still have a significant impact on my school life, even now that I'm in 11th grade.

☆

The bell rang signaling the end of class, marking the start of lunch break.

"Shun! Let’s have lunch together!"

Sonoda Rena, a close friend from the group, cheerfully patted me on the shoulder.

She knew I usually ate with Gakuto in the cafeteria but still invited me, probably because she had something to talk about.

When I looked over at Gakuto, he smiled and waved, saying, "I’m going solo today. Bye!"

I slowly followed Rena, who seemed to want some time away from the rest of the group. I ordered fried rice, and luckily, we found a small table with two seats in a quiet corner of the cafeteria.

While waiting for Rena and scrolling through my phone, I heard some senior girls call out, "Kaburagi-kun, are you eating alone today? Wanna join us?"

I replied that I was waiting for a friend, and they teased, "Oh, rejected!"

"Sorry to keep you waiting... Tch, leave you alone for just a moment, and you’re already getting hit on," Rena teased as she sat down.

"Getting hit on? It’s just an invitation to eat together, that’s all."

We made small talk as I casually scooped a spoonful of fried rice into my mouth. Though I was used to hanging out and eating one-on-one with girls like this, today, I felt like more people were paying attention to me than usual.

"Hehe... Everyone’s curious whether you and I are dating. We’re really drawing attention."

"Huh, why? We’re not doing anything special."

"Because we’re eating together so closely in such a public place, of course. Shun, you need to be more aware of your own appeal. Though, honestly, that indifferent attitude of yours is part of why I like you."

I paused, putting down my chopsticks, and looked straight at Rena. Our eyes met. Her sharp, vividly colored eyes radiated an intense charm.

"Go out with me, Shun. I’ve liked you for a long time."

I wasn’t surprised by her confession. Rena had never hidden her feelings for me.

Because I couldn’t meet her expectations, I always tried to be honest and careful when handling confessions from girls.

"I’m sorry, Rena. I can’t return your feelings."

I set my chopsticks down and bowed my head slowly.

After a few seconds of silence, Rena said, "Hey, lift your head." I obeyed and saw her puffing out her cheeks.

"From the moment I started liking a Charmer like you, I prepared myself for the chance that I might not become your official girlfriend… But why not me? Just try going out with me for a while, even just a month. You might not think it, but I’m actually very Dedicated, you know?"

Rena was a girl with Perfect style—her outfit, makeup, accessories, and nails were always on point. She stood out quite a bit at school. Objectively speaking, she was beautiful, had an adorable fashion sense, and was cheerful and approachable.

But unfortunately, to me, Rena wasn’t someone special.

"Thank you for your feelings, Rena, but I just want to stay friends with you. We can still be good friends for a long time, right?"

"That’s not going to make me give up! Just try dating me for a month. I’ll do my best to make you fall for me!"

Not to brag, but I’d been confessed to a few times before. However, this was the first time someone had been so Stubborn, and I was starting to feel overwhelmed by Rena’s determination.

"You don’t have to try so hard. You’re cute, Rena, and you’ll meet lots of cooler guys than me in the future. You don’t need to cling to me."

"I won’t accept such a cold, mechanical response, even if it’s in Shun’s voice, the one I love so much! Come on, just give it a shot…"

Her firm tone softened into something sweeter, and she lightly grasped my hand. Her sincerity and passion were visible in every gesture.

But what was I supposed to do if she refused to listen to anything I said? If I kept giving in to Rena’s wishes, it would surely create an unwanted, messy relationship that would only bring trouble.

Wait a minute… Could she have confessed so publicly on purpose, as part of some plan? Maybe she was trying to create the illusion of a couple being intimate to trap me into a situation I couldn’t escape.

The moment she held my hand in front of so many people made me realize something. Oh, and this was the first time a girl had held my hand like that. The soft sensation of her hand, combined with the determination I’d never encountered before, made my heart beat faster.

But if I were this flustered just by holding hands, it definitely wouldn’t fit with the "playboy" image. I needed to calm down.

Wait, no, this isn’t the time to think about appearances. The image of Nakamura-san, the girl I’ve secretly loved for so long, just flashed before my eyes. I needed to reject Rena firmly.

Among this chaotic train of thought, I blurted out:

"Actually, I... have a girlfriend. So I can’t date you, Rena."

It wasn’t about saving face or anything, I was just lying.

If I had to justify it, I’d say the situation, with her holding my hand in front of everyone, made me so nervous that I couldn’t think clearly, and the unexpected, direct approach threw me off balance, making it hard to respond appropriately.

Rena looked at me doubtfully:

"You have a girlfriend? Since when? Who is she?"

"S..Sorry for keeping it a secret. I have my reasons, so I’ve had to keep it under wraps, but I’ll tell everyone eventually."

She probably realized I was lying due to the awkwardness in my voice. Rena narrowed her eyes, her expression completely calm.

"Well then, introduce her to everyone next time. If not, I’m not giving up."

In this situation, I couldn’t absolutely shake my head and refuse.

“Y-yeah... I’ll introduce her as soon as I can.”

Rena slowly let go of my hand, said, “I’m looking forward to it,” and stood up to leave.

Left alone, I sighed deeply, rubbing my forehead.

Though I was used to maintaining appearances, this was the first time I’d blatantly lied like that.

I knew that living behind a fake image would lead to a day like this. But because I kept avoiding the issue, I ended up dragging things out until I told such a terrible lie to Rena.

What the hell did I just do? That was pathetic!

A wave of guilt toward Rena and disgust with myself washed over me.

The thought of the mess I had just created looming ahead made my chest tighten painfully.

☆

On the way to the train station, I couldn’t stop repeating everything in my head.

I had a part-time job starting at 6 PM today. Normally, I’d either go home or hang out somewhere before heading to work, but the events in the cafeteria earlier left me so restless that I didn’t feel like going home at all.

While considering what to do next, I decided to stop by a nearby café. As I looked up, I noticed two people walking ahead—a boy and a girl.

It’s not unusual to see two students walking home together, but I was drawn to them for two reasons.

First, they didn’t seem particularly close.

In fact, the girl looked rather irritated as the flashy-looking boy kept pestering her. I felt a sudden sense of justice well up within me, thinking I might need to step in if things took a bad turn.

The second reason was that the girl was none other than Nakamura Hiyori—the one I’ve secretly admired for so long.

Even though we’re in different classes, there’s probably no student at Hareoka who doesn’t know Nakamura-san by now.

At the moment, the rumors about her seem split between two extremes.

The positive ones highlight her adorable face.

Because she his small face, her large, round eyes stand out even more. Rather than winning hearts with stunning looks, she captures attention with her gentle smile. She wears earrings on both ears, which suit her perfectly in my eyes.

She’s always surrounded by friends, emitting a cheerful smile. She’s the ideal of a modern high school girl.

With her bright personality, cuteness, and approachability, she’s naturally popular among boys. I’m one of them, too. But as far as I know, she doesn’t have a reliable boyfriend.

On the other hand, the negative rumors about her dye a very different picture—claiming she’s the kind of girl who “lights up” whenever she sees a good-looking guy and that the number of guys she’s spent nights with is beyond counting.

When I first heard that, I thought I must have misheard. From the impression I got when I first met her, she didn’t seem like that type at all.

But seeing her dressed stylishly, hanging out with her equally standout group of friends, the rumors started to feel more believable. After all, the girls in my group are also quite open about relationships, regardless to different ranks.

Nakamura-san’s natural friendliness and approachability are likely what make her so beloved by everyone.

When we entered high school, the aspect of "always being surrounded by friends" multiplied. This increased her interactions with boys, attracted more people to her charm, and if she were the type eager to explore new experiences, it would explain how those rumors spread so easily.

I understand the reasoning behind it, but those rumors have definitely affected my actions around her.

On the day of the entrance exam, we talked so naturally despite meeting for the first time. Was it fate? I couldn't help but dream like that. But for Nakamura-san, helping others in need was just normal, and with her open personality, a conversation with me was no big deal.

Thinking like that made me completely discouraged. I didn't dare to approach her for the entire year.

Furthermore, I wasn't sure how the rumors about me reached her. Just imagining confessing and being coldly rejected made me even more hesitant to take any action.

Though I wanted to express my feelings, I kept making excuses for myself and did nothing for an entire year. I felt ashamed of my own cowardice.

But now wasn’t the time for self-reflection. I had to focus on the two of them.

The person walking with Nakamura-san was a 12th-grade student. He was grinning and following her closely. Nakamura-san clearly seemed uncomfortable, but I wasn’t sure what the exact situation was.

I shortened the distance between us and tried to eavesdrop as naturally as possible.

"Like I always say, I really like you, Nakamura-chan. So, why don’t you try going out with me? I promise I’ll take good care of you!"

"No matter how many times you say that, it won’t change anything. I’m not interested in dating you."

"I understand, I understand. All girls say that at first. But what’s the harm in giving it a try? I’ll definitely make you happy."

Although Nakamura-san had clearly rejected him, the guy refused to listen. In another situation, I might admire his persistence, but right now, I only felt sympathy for Nakamura-san.

She seemed exhausted from being harassed, her face showing signs of grief under her usual calm behavior.

If I were a girl, and a guy older than me persistently following me despite every rejection, I wouldn’t just be annoyed; I’d feel scared.

So, I couldn’t just stand by and do nothing.

"Hiyori! Let’s go home together!"

I patted her shoulder, trying to sound cheerful and casual. I silently apologized for startling her, then turned to the guy and asked innocently:

"Oh, hey there. Do you need to talk to my girlfriend?"

I couldn’t bear to look at Nakamura-san’s reaction, so I focused on the guy instead, trying to sound threatening in the most polite way possible. Although still grinning, he seemed visibly awkward.

"Well, well, it’s Kaburagi Shun. So, you and Nakamura-chan are dating, huh?"

"Something like that. So I’m not a fan of you bothering her when I’m not around."

I hoped the guy would back off, and mentally prepared myself for a dispute if he got angry.

But instead, the guy said:

"Wow... The two most famous people at school for being involved in love affairs are dating each other, huh? Interesting. If you ever want to try a threesome, contact me. See ya."

I couldn’t forgive him for saying something so vulgar in front of a girl. I was about to grab him, but Nakamura-san held onto my hand and shook her head.

Though I was still angry, I respected her wishes and didn’t chase after him. Once he was out of sight, Nakamura-san let out a sigh of relief.

"Thank you for helping me. I’m used to hearing things like that, so it’s okay. Sorry for dragging you into this, Kaburagi-kun."

Although she spoke in a cheerful tone, the faint sadness in her smile didn’t seem normal. But if that was the image she wanted to maintain, I felt I shouldn’t interfere.

"It’s been a while since we’ve talked, Nakamura-san. I didn’t do much. Oh, and sorry for randomly saying that we’re dating. Do you already have a boyfriend? I hope I didn’t cause any trouble."

"No, I don’t have a boyfriend, so don’t worry. If anything, I should be the one apologizing if those weird rumors about me have affected you. You must be really popular with girls, right?"

I had blurted out the question about her having a boyfriend, but I felt relieved when she said she didn’t.

"Don’t worry about me. But... Are you okay, Nakamura-san? This doesn’t seem like the first time that upperclassman has bothered you. It must be exhausting, huh?"

I thought it was normal for guys to approach Nakamura-san, given her charm and popularity. However, that guy just now completely ignored her feelings, selfishly striking his desires on her despite being clearly rejected. His parting words before walking away revealed his true, self-centered nature. He even mentioned confessing to her every day. The pressure Nakamura-san must be enduring from this is undoubtedly immense.

In response to my question, Nakamura-san gave a bitter smile:

"...Yes. Even though I've rejected him, he still bothers me every day... I'm really tired of it. Maybe he's heard the rumors about me and thinks that if he pressures me, I'll give in at least once... I really don't want to see him again..."

Girls are easy, they just need to see a handsome guy and they 'bloom.'

The rumors about Nakamura-san reached me even though we're in different classes. So, it's probably natural that they reached her ears as well.

The girl I like is supposed to always smile brightly. But now, her smile is tinged with sadness and exhaustion.

I clenched my fists and straightened my back.

Yes, this is my trivial sense of justice—I can't just leave someone in trouble, and it's also my hypocrisy—unable to hide my feelings.

"Well, let's just try dating for real. When I said I was your boyfriend, he backed off immediately. If you’re discovered to be single, he’ll start approaching you again."

Even though I gathered all my courage, I could only express my feelings in such a gentle way, completely due to my own weakness and fragility.

I was afraid that if I spoke my true feelings, I would be coldly rejected, and I feared the image of Kaburagi Shun in everyone's imagination would shatter.

It was these ridiculous reasons that made my confession feel fake. Nakamura-san blinked in surprise. She might be thinking: So, your initial kindness was just for your own purposes.

At that moment, I felt pathetic, panicked, and unsure of what to say to make things right. I was regretting my actions when...

"Thank you. Well then, I’ll accept and be your girlfriend."

I froze at the unexpected response.

Nakamura-san easily accepted my clumsy confession.

...Seriously? My one-sided feelings are turning into reality this way?

Inside, I was overjoyed, wanting to jump for joy, but since I couldn’t act childish in front of Nakamura-san, I calmly replied,

"Yeah, I hope you’ll take care of me."

I looked straight into her eyes. I was so tense that I couldn’t even think that her surprised expression was also cute. I took a deep breath and made up my mind to say :

Right, I need to be careful. Nakamura-san has dated many guys before. If I overreact to every little gesture she makes, I could end up being disliked.

I have to keep my distance, not let my emotions sway at the smallest of joys, and build up my emotional defense shield.

"Well, starting today, Shun-kun and I are a couple. Calling you Kaburagi-kun feels a bit distant, doesn’t it? C-could I call you Shun-kun instead?"

Her attack easily pierced through my fragile shield, almost leaving me seriously wounded.

"O-of course, that’s fine. I’ll call you Hiyori-chan then. U-uh... should we exchange contact information first?"

I was so flustered. It was so embarrassing. Hearing myself say "Hiyori-chan" made me feel a bit uncomfortable, and the sudden closeness made my cheeks burn.

"Y-yeah, you’re right. Hehe, we promised to exchange info after we both passed the exam, but it’s been over a year, and we’re only doing it now."

Just the fact that she remembered our conversation from the entrance exam day moved me. I nervously took out my phone, exchanged numbers with her, and then we headed to the station together.

"Even though we haven’t talked in a while, Shun-kun is still as kind as ever, willing to be the boyfriend who protects the girl in trouble, huh?"

Hearing that phrase "just like before" made me feel incredibly happy. Oh no, I’m definitely misunderstanding her words.

"I usually can’t say things like that to anyone. It’s only because it’s you, Hiyori-chan."

I was embarrassed as I said "Hiyori-chan" in this unfamiliar way, but she tilted her head and smiled brightly at me.

"That cheesy line actually made my heart skip a beat. Is this the charm of a playboy?"

"T-That's not a skill. I'm being sincere," I said.

"Hehe, is that so? Looks like I'll have to be nervous every day because of Shun-kun now. I wonder if my heart can handle it."

Though I was happy to see her cute smile, being called a playboy... It seems the rumors about me have reached her ears.

"No, no, Hiyori-chan, you've misunderstood. I just want to try to be a good boyfriend to you."

"I'm worried I won't be able to keep up with your rich experience, Shun-kun. Please teach me lots of things."

She was expecting a lot from me as her boyfriend.

The worry and pressure made me break into a cold sweat.

"Don't worry. But I’m the one who’s worried I won’t be able to satisfy someone as knowledgeable as Hiyori-chan. But... as long as I'm with you, I’m sure I’ll enjoy every day."

No matter what, I couldn’t let the panic inside show. I had to remain calm—that was the response Hiyori-chan expected from me.

"Thank you. I’m looking forward to the days ahead too!"

Seeing that gentle smile, I was sure I hadn’t done anything wrong. From our first meeting until now, I never imagined I’d be able to have such a smooth conversation with Hiyori-chan.

"It’s nice to be going home together like this. Being able to look at each other’s faces and talk privately."

"Yeah... so, from now on, whenever we have the chance, let’s go home together, okay?"

Hiyori-chan’s round eyes sparkled.

"Really? That makes me so happy! Ah, we’ve arrived at the station... Time flies."

"We’ll meet again tomorrow. I’m looking forward to your help, Hiyori-chan."

"Mm! Same here, Shun-kun. See you tomorrow! Bye-bye!"

I watched Hiyori-chan wave as she boarded the train, then I went to the opposite platform to go to my part-time job.

Honestly, I was so nervous and excited that I barely remembered what we talked about along the way. It was probably just about school, manga I was obsessed with, or some trivial things.

But thinking about how those casual conversations would become a part of my daily life from now on, I felt an unusual happiness.

Is this what it feels like to be in love? Did my friends go through this feeling too?

I wanted to shout "Love is amazing!" but if I did, it would be too embarrassing.

My steps felt light as I walked to my part-time job. I looked up at the sky, silently reaffirming the resolution I made in my heart when talking to her.

Hiyori-chan is really cute. So cute.

And because of that, she must have dated many kinds of men and is familiar with love.

The reason she accepted my confession earlier might be because I’m Kaburagi Shun, the guy who’s rumored to be a playboy. If I confessed too seriously, she might think, "It’s too heavy for a relationship." Or if she knew I was a virgin, she might think, "Seems a bit dull."

In short, the minimum requirement for me to date her is :

I absolutely cannot let her know I’m a virgin!

Although reluctantly, my friends and the whole class think of me as a playboy. I’m sure I’ll behave well with my "girlfriend."

April 27th won’t just be the anniversary of my first girlfriend—it will also be the day I resolved to maintain and even strengthen the image of Kaburagi Shun as a playboy in everyone’s eyes.

[Nakamura Hiyori’s April 27th]

Perhaps Nakamura Hiyori has used up all the luck of her lifetime in just one day. Because today feels like a dream.

Lying on my bed, recalling Shun-kun’s face and voice, I let out a happy sigh.

I’ve had a crush on Kaburagi Shun ever since the entrance exams for Hareoka High School.

The reason is simple and clear. On the day of the exams, while on the train heading to Hareoka, I felt an odd atmosphere from the man standing behind me. I told myself I was being overly sensitive, but the knowledge I had read in newspapers—like "Molesters often target days when people can’t afford to be late, such as exams or festivals"—made me even more afraid.

The train was crowded, and the distance between me and that man was uncomfortably close. What should I do? It was truly unsettling. But I hadn’t been touched yet, and if I spoke up and he got angry, that would be even more dangerous.

I was tensing up under the breath blowing on the back of my neck when suddenly:

“If you don’t mind, please take this seat.”

The boy wearing the school uniform sitting in front of me stood up and offered his seat, catching me off guard with his unexpected gesture. Perhaps he had noticed I was in trouble. My mood had been awful since the morning, but thanks to him, my heart eased a little.

He got off at the same station as me. Could it be that he was also taking the Hareoka entrance exam? I silently hoped so. Suddenly, the man from earlier bumped roughly into him.

Due to the collision, he fell, and his glasses dropped onto the platform. Unfortunately, a passenger who had just gotten off the train stepped on them, snapping the frame completely.

The man ran away, but thanks to many witnesses, he was quickly apprehended and escorted away by station staff. The elderly woman who accidentally stepped on the glasses bowed in apology and offered compensation, but the damage to the glasses couldn’t be repaired immediately.

Listening to the conversation between him and the station staff, it became clear that he was also an examinee for Hareoka.

“But with such poor vision, you won’t be able to make it to the exam room. You should wait for your parents to pick you up.”

“But if I do that, I won’t make it in time…”

“Excuse me! I’m also taking the exam at that school, so I’ll take him there!”

He had just helped me, so how could I stand idly by?

“Th-thank you for helping me earlier. You must be really worried, but I’ll stay by your side. Don’t leave me, okay?”

At the time, I said that to calm his anxiety, but looking back on it now, I feel embarrassed.

“…Thank you. You really saved me.”

When he smiled with relief and looked straight into my eyes to thank me, my heart skipped a beat. Although he gave off a simple impression, upon closer look, his face was surprisingly well-proportioned.

He introduced himself as Kaburagi Shun. That day, after spending time with Shun-kun, I fell for him.

It’s not because I’m easily charmed. This was the first time I met a guy who made me feel so happy just talking to him.

I interacted with him with one-third of guilt, one-third of gratitude, and the remaining third hidden feelings I couldn’t express. Looking back, I’m not sure how I managed the exams in such a blissful state. Or maybe that’s the power of love?

After the exams, I started improving myself.

When we talked about a movie we were watching, he said he liked girls who were fashionable and cute, so I thought that I wouldn’t catch his attention with how I am. With the passionate heart of a girl, I tried my best to become cute.

Then, on the first day of school, I was stunned to see Shun-kun again.

He already had a well-balanced face, but now he looked even more shiny.

Tall and handsome, with smooth, fair skin, a balanced face, and a charming smile. His neatly tidy eyebrows and stylish short hair completed the look.

In short, he was the kind of handsome guy everyone imagines.

Shun-kun had a charm that made it hard for me to take my eyes off him. Of course, it wasn’t just me—upperclassmen and students in our class quickly noticed him too.

“There’s a handsome guy joining the school this year.”

“Kaburagi-kun from Class 10A4 is so handsome.”

The positive reviews about Shun-kun quickly spread, and after about a month in school, he became one of the most popular guys at the school.

There were rumors that he was a playboy, involved with many girls without having a fixed girlfriend… but with his charm, it was hard to blame him.

Seeing Shun-kun happily talking to many girls, I felt embarrassed. For him, chatting with girls was nothing special; it was just a natural act of someone who is kind to everyone.

...How silly I was to once dream that our meeting was destined.

Having been lucky enough to pass the entrance exams, I should have acted quickly to turn my one-sided feelings into something more. But I hesitated and didn’t dare approach Shun-kun.

Since the two groups of friends didn’t interact, over the past year, I could only watch him from afar.

But after a year of observing Shun-kun, I realized that these feelings would never fade.

His cheerful and fair attitude towards everyone.

Even if unwillingly, he would still help teachers when no one else would.

Always ready to extend a helping hand to those in need, with subtle kindness.

I know he is a kind person, always acting for others since he saved me from the molester on the train.

And today, he helped me again. To directly experience the kindness that I've always longed for, it makes it hard to control the overwhelming emotions inside me.

"There’s no reason for me to not like him..."

My thoughts spilled out of my mouth.

Today, he... confessed to me? Is this real...?

The phone by my pillow vibrated, startling me. I opened it with nervous anticipation and saw that Shun-kun sent a message saying, "From now on, let’s help each other out" after work.

This is real. It’s real, but it feels like a dream. Someone as wonderful as him is my boyfriend, it’s hard to believe.

Unable to stop my cheeks from stretching into a smile, I buried my face in the pillow and waved my legs around like crazy.

But I can’t be satisfied or arrogant. It’s not just about becoming his girlfriend and being done with it.

My boyfriend is the most popular guy in school, Kaburagi Shun. If I act in a way that’s not cute or make him uncomfortable, I’ll definitely be thrown away immediately.

I sighed. Moreover, the thing that worries me the most...

"Let me handle it. But I’m the one who’s worried that I won’t be able to satisfy Hiyori-chan, who seems to understand everything. Well, anyway, as long as I’m with Hiyori-chan, I’m sure every day will be fun."

... these are the words Shun-kun said on the way home with me.

He thinks that I "seem to understand everything" and believes there will be "happy days." This means he expects me to behave like a experienced woman.

With his playful nature, Shun-kun must have a wealth of experience in bed and excellent "skills" in that area.

So, he probably expects his girlfriend to have similar skills. Since he’s kind, he likely wouldn’t say anything about it, but he would surely feel bothered if... his girlfriend were a virgin.

So, for a girl like me who’s rumored at school to be promiscuous...

I absolutely cannot let him know I’m a virgin!

With that determination, in order to appear like a experienced woman, I began to imitate what I had learned from online resources and my friends' stories.

But whenever I think about Shun-kun, my whole body heats up, and I can’t focus.

── Only 87 days left until the first time we do it ──

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