Kiryuuin meticulously explained various knowledge about Uma Musume races to him, even extending from footwear to track characteristics. The two were deep in conversation, so much so that it wasn't until Aoi came over to say it was time for the evening break that Kazuo realized it was already seven o'clock without him noticing.
Because Aoi saw how focused the two were in their discussion, she simply ordered a paper hot pot to be delivered to the shop.
Sitting in a booth in the shop, the three gathered around, enjoying the lively meal, which also marked the end of their day's work.
.
Staying in his small cubicle, Kazuo finished reading an entire notebook written by Toujou Hana, and couldn't help but rub his temples, letting out a slow breath. Sitting in the armchair, Kazuo felt his mind go blank.
A small room always gives a sense of security, like hiding in a quiet corner, undisturbed.
Studying in such a place always brings a sense of tranquility and satisfaction when looking back after a period of busyness.
Glancing at the time, it was now nine o'clock. Kazuo took out the MAX coffee he had bought earlier. The trace amount of sugar could stimulate the cerebral cortex, relieve fatigue, and was somewhat helpful for reading and studying.
Although he was no longer studying desperately like a student preparing for the national college entrance exam, Kazuo still found a hint of student life in his recent days.
The condensed milk coffee spread its subtle sweetness in his mouth, and Kazuo, looking at the ceiling, couldn't help but let out a sigh.
"I hope the good luck charm for exams I got during New Year's prayers at the temple is still effective this year?"
Also, I should rest a bit, then continue reading, right?
"Buzz buzz buzz—"
Just as he was thinking this, his phone, placed nearby, suddenly vibrated.
Who would be sending him a message at this hour?
Kazuo picked up the phone, a little surprised. It turned out to be a LINE message from Xiao Hai Wan.
---
Creek: [Is Asama-kun there?]
It was somewhat unexpected that it would be a message from Xiao Hai Wan. Although they had added each other as friends and exchanged email addresses earlier—
But a girl sending him a message alone for the first time still had an indescribable novelty to it.
Thinking wildly like this, Kazuo typed.
Kazu: [Yes, is there something I can help you with?]
He was indeed a bit awkward at sending such messages, instinctively using polite language. Even though their relationship was already relatively familiar, after sending it, he felt that the more he re-read what he wrote, the more he felt the meaning hadn't been conveyed.
He could usually reply well to work emails with phrases like "Thank you for your continued support" and "Understood."
But as a friend of the opposite sex, once he realized this, it made him stutter even while typing.
Beep beep.
So fast! He had just sent it—
Creek: [I originally wanted to call you, but I was afraid of disturbing your studies, so I sent you a message instead.]
Xiao Hai Wan: Are you resting now?
Even when chatting, he still thinks of the other person first. She's truly a kind-hearted girl—
Kazuo couldn't help but sigh.
"Hmm... I'm resting now. What about you, Xiao Hai Wan?... Hmm, okay."
It was also his break time, so Kazuo picked up his phone and chatted with Xiao Hai Wan.
Xiao Hai Wan: I already returned to my hometown this afternoon, and my younger siblings are all very happy.
Xiao Hai Wan: [Image]
A photo was sent. The girl was wearing a relatively simple light pink dress, and the other children joyfully leaned close to her.
This photo made Xiao Hai Wan look even more like a loving young mother—
However, perhaps this is what she will be like in the future.
Virtuous, gentle, and fond of children.
Looking at the photo, Kazuo couldn't help but show a slight smile.
Kazuo: It seems you're really popular with children, Xiao Hai Wan.
Xiao Hai Wan: Hehe, you won't get praised for flattering me like that. Or, Asama-kun, do you want to try being petted on the head?
Kazuo: Please spare me that orz
Xiao Hai Wan: (?'?`?) But besides that, I also want to give Asama-kun a lap pillow...
Uh—
A lap pillow. Kazuo subconsciously imagined that scene.
Like a tender haven, her warm, soft body, and the girl's bone-deep spoil—
Kazuo shivered involuntarily.
Xiao Hai Wan, truly a terrifying presence.
Xiao Hai Wan: How about this: if Asama-kun can successfully pass the exam, I'll give you this reward. How does that sound?
"Hiss—"
Fortunately, no one saw him now, otherwise they would surely say his cheeks were burning, right?
He calmed his emotions slightly.
Kazuo: Anyway! Let's talk about these things after the exam! Regardless of the reward, I also have my own reasons to become a Trainer!
Bearing the promise to his sister and the expectations of Xiao Hai Wan.
Just as Toujou Hana had said before, his responsibility and belief as a Trainer must at least be demonstrated in this competition.
Xiao Hai Wan: Mm! I believe Asama-kun will definitely succeed. Go for it! φ(>ω<*)
Coupled with the emoji, it made Kazuo feel a sense of relief. No matter what, there was always someone standing behind Kazuo, waiting for him.
But—
He also hoped that one day, he wouldn't rely on her, but rather, she could rely on him.
Beep beep
Xiao Hai Wan: But don't stay up too late studying at night. Also, if possible, you can drink some lemon water to regulate your body. Don't push yourself too hard.
Sweat—
Even through the screen, he could imagine Xiao Hai Wan's somewhat worried expression, but—
Although he had said before, "Xiao Hai Wan, are you my mother?" if he were to be honest, she truly possessed the same gentleness and consideration as a mother.
Xiao Hai Wan: Go for it! I won't disturb your studying anymore! φ(>ω<*)
This emoji ended their chat, and the psychological comfort it brought Kazuo undoubtedly recharged him and filled him with motivation.
Also—
Save.
This photo—
He definitely had to save it properly.
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