How To Ruin A Love Comedy

Chapter 60: Overwriting Memories #2

Chapter 60: Overwriting Memories #2

Matsuda-kun.

Inside the nearly empty movie theater.

While I was eating popcorn from the popcorn tub sandwiched between Miyukis legs that were perched atop my thighs, I turned my head at her call.

Why?

I want a massage.

No.

But you said I could do whatever I want today.

Its past midnight.

Miyuki, who had a pouty expression at my firm refusal, tightened her calves, tightening the popcorn tub until the opening was covered.

I slipped my hand in during that moment, pulled out a piece of popcorn, and popped it into my mouth, and then I smirked at Miyuki.

.....

Did she find me incredibly mean?

Miyukis face scrunched up in irritation.

She seemed like she wanted to curse at me, her mouth moving as if to start, but then she gave up on the massage and tried to put her leg down.

However, when I began gently massaging her calf with one hand, she broke into a broad grin.

Im only letting it slide this time.

Mhm. And, my mom said she wants you to have a meal with us next weekend... is that okay?

Thats fine. Shall we go now?

The credits havent finished rolling yet. Is it bothersome to massage me?

I can do it anytime.

But I want it now...

Suit yourself.

By that time, the remaining few had also left, leaving just the two of us in the theater.

The projectionist must still be around, I wonder what kind of face he is making.

Probably an annoyed one.

By the time all the credits had rolled, we finally stepped out of the theater.

The rain that had stopped earlier had started to fall again.

At times like this, I should probably suggest she stay over at my place...

Did your mom say anything when you went home today?

About what?

Like how youve been staying out too often lately... Something along those lines.

Ah... She didnt really say anything...?

It seems Miyukis conduct has been so irreproachable that her mother had nothing specific to complain about.

I shook my head as I said,

Stay over tonight as well.

Ive already told her I was going to see a movie with Matsuda-kun...

Just tell her youll stay at my place.

That wont work... you dummy... Instead, Ill come over early tomorrow...

So youll stay over? Then we can go to the academy together.

How on earth do you hear what I say and come up with that kind of response...?

I just want to be with you that much.

As I laid my feelings bare, Miyukis face filled with joy but also a hint of worry.

Her expression seemed seriously contemplative.

I couldnt help but chuckle lightly and tapped her thigh gently.

Dont worry too much. I was just saying it.

Youre just saying it... really?

Well. Why dont you pick up whats behind you?

Behind?

Miyuki turned her head towards the backseat.

Spotting a few writing utensils scattered carelessly, she asked.

Its a pen and a mechanical pencil, isnt it?

Yeah. Theyre a gift.

All of a sudden...?

I plan to erase all traces of Tetsuya from Miyukis life and plaster my own all around her. Ill start with the trivial things, like the stationery she bought and used with him. When I go to Miyukis place this weekend, I should also replace that Maneki-neko hanging on her door.[1]

Its to encourage you to study hard.

I mean... Id be thankful to receive it, but... isnt this gift a bit out of the blue...?

I noticed last time that your writing instruments were worn out. Use these from now on.

When did you see that...? Thank you. Ill use them well, Matsuda-kun.

Though whether Ill be able to scold her or not is another matter.

As I was about to trudge out of the classroom, I hesitated upon overhearing Tetsuyas question to Miyuki.

Uh... Miyuki, whats that mechanical pencil you have? Is it new?

Ah... this? I got it as a gift.

A gift?

Yeah. The knob on my old one was hard to press, so... I switched to the one I received as a present.

You should have said something... we could have gone to buy a new one together.

Im sorry. But Tetsuya-kun, do you still have some of the jelly we were eating in the car?

Yeah, I have some left. Ill give it to you.

Hearing the slight hurt in Tetsuyas voice, I left the classroom.

Watching him, unable to even ask who the gift was from for fear of overstepping, I felt it was his fate to be left out.

***

Matsuda hubae-nim, did you have a good weekend?

Chinami greets me with a vibrant smile, full of energy despite it being Monday. Its a nice sight.

I did, thank you. And how about you, Sensei?

I had a great weekend, too. How did the cultural festivals competition turn out? I went to see it with Renka in the evening, and it seemed incredibly tense... You guys won first place, right?

Of course. Have you ever seen a festival planned by the heroine not take first place? Its a love comedy standard.

Yes.

Wow...! Congratulations!

How did the skewer shop do?

We made a profit. We divided it among all the members who participated. Oh, and by the way, I overheard something while cleaning around the coachs office today... It seems the coach is going to officially recognize you as a full member soon.

Is that so?

Is that so? You dont sound very excited... Dont you think its a great thing?

Imitating my indifferent tone, she places her hands on her hips. She frowns as if shes about to scold me, but its so playful it ends up being more cutelike a Maltese pup yapping and fussing.

If it happens, it happens. If not, it doesnt.

Matsuda hubae-nim, the coach is acknowledging you despite the trouble youve caused. Its also an opportunity to learn even more about kendo than you do now. Arent you happy?

If I become a full member, does that mean I have to quit being a manager?

Chinami slowly nodded her head.

That seems to be the case.

Then I dont want to do it.

What?

I like learning about Sangdanse from you while doing the managers work.

Huh...? You prefer being a manager?

Chinamis large eyes blinked twice. I gave her an awkward smile and continued talking.

It would be more accurate to say that I enjoy doing it with sensei.

Really...? While Im happy to hear that, I wish your skills would improve significantly...

Do you dislike having me around, Sensei? Would you prefer it if I disappeared?

What...? How can you say such a thing without batting an eye...! Where in the world is there a master who dislikes their disciple...!?

Then, that settles it. I learn much faster from you than from the club. Its impossible not to improve with one-on-one instruction. If the coach asks, Ill say I want to continue being a manager.

Isnt the managers work difficult for you?

No. Its fun.

Matsuda hubae-nim, you are an odd one.

Wouldnt that also apply to you, who willingly does all the menial tasks?

Its because Sensei treats me well that Ive been trained by her.

Trained...?

If that word is a bit much, should I say influenced instead? Anyway, youre okay with it, Sensei?

Well, I do like having you around, Matsuda hubae-nim...

Decision made. Now, to commemorate our true teacher-student relationship, shall I give you a massage? Your shoulders seemed stiff when I saw you dealing with Miuras induction just before...

As I step closer to Chinami, flexing my hands, she rolls her eyes and then answers.

Im fine for now, so Ill just take your offer in spirit. Come on, lets get to work.

Whats on the agenda today?

First, lets check the condition of the protective gear. After that...

Chinami chatters away about todays tasks. Theres a trace of joy in her voice.

It seems shes somewhat moved by my decision to continue as a manager.

Ill make sure you become even happier later on.

*

{ TN: 1. Maneki-Neko: A common Japanese figurine that is often believed to bring good luck to the owner.

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