An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Summary:
They say longing to meet is emotion, but wanting to see someone becomes a sickness.
Aikyan learns the difference the moment Rikako asks to come over.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
They say it well, longing to meet someone is emotion, but wanting to see them becomes a kind of illness.
At the beginning, we were just groupmates.
Both Type O, both easygoing, it felt like we simply clicked.
That was all it was supposed to be.
Because honestly, she was too cute. Too pretty. So effortlessly radiant that standing next to her felt mismatched in a way I didn’t want to think too hard about.
Someone like her wouldn’t be interested in me. That was the assumption I held onto.
And yet, she started reaching out more. Twitter, LINE, little messages that didn’t mean anything, and somehow meant everything.
We started going out together, just the two of us. Nothing special. Just… time.
And slowly, quietly, something in me began to hope.
“Maybe I’m just being full of myself,” I’d think.
“But maybe… just maybe, Rikako is a little interested in me too.”
------------------
The July event in Numazu ended.
Then the August livestream.
The next time all of us would be together was September 9th.
Just a few weeks.
That’s all it was supposed to be.
So why did it feel so unbearable?
I missed her.
The realization sat heavy in my chest, but even then, I couldn’t bring myself to ask her to meet.
And then, a message.
“Aikyan, can you hang out right now?”
For a second, I just stared at my phone.
Then I was on my feet, practically bouncing in place, heart racing faster than I could keep up with.
I typed back quickly, forcing my tone into something casual, something that wouldn give me away,
“Sure. Where do you want to go?”
I didn’t wait for the reply before I started getting ready.
What would she wear today?
Would it be something soft? Something cool? Something that, by some miracle, might match mine?
The thought made my chest feel strangely warm.
I had just finished changing when my phone buzzed again.
“Can I come over to your place?”
My place?
I blinked.
The last time she’d been here was around my birthday the year before, she and Arisha had stayed over. Since then, we’d both been too busy.
And besides, Rikako liked going out, new places, new cafes, anywhere but staying in.
So why now?
“I mean… sure. But there’s not much to do here?”
It wasn’t a lie. My place wasn’t exactly exciting.
But the truth was, I wanted her here more than anything.
“That’s totally fine! I just want to talk.”
Talk?
Something important, then?
“Okay! I’ll clean up a bit.”
“I’m already at the nearest station, I’ll be there soon!”
“…That fast?”
I let out a quiet laugh, already moving to tidy up.
If I’d said no, she probably would’ve come anyway.
------------------
A little while later, the doorbell rang.
“Coming!”
I opened the door, and,
“Hey~ I’m here.”
“…Yeah. Welcome.”
And just like that, there she was.
Cute. Of course she was. Effortlessly, unfairly cute.
Who dresses this nicely just to visit someone’s house?
“…So?”
I asked, trying to sound normal.
“What’s up?”
Rikako hesitated.
Actually hesitated, something she almost never did. Her hand brushed through her hair as she looked away.
“Uh… well…”
“Hm?”
“…Can I get some tea first?”
“Ah—yeah. Sure. Give me a sec.”
Something about that made my chest tighten.
Is it something serious?
I handed her the tea once I came back, watching her carefully.
“Here.”
“Thanks.”
She took a sip.
And then,
“Um…”
“Yeah?”
“Uh…”
“What is it?”
I laughed.
“You’re acting weird.”
She was.
Rikako, who usually said things so bluntly, so easily, now she looked like she didn’t know where to begin.
“…Aikyan,” she said softly.
“Yeah?”
“I… wanted to see you.”
Her face flushed red as she said it.
For a moment, everything stilled.
And then, without thinking,
“…You’re too cute!”
It slipped out before I could stop it.
“Ah—sorry,”
I added quickly.
“I mean—I’m really happy. Thank you.”
“Sorry for saying it so suddenly…”
“No, it’s fine. Really.”
Because it was.
Because—
“I wanted to see you too,”
I admitted, words catching slightly.
“I mean… I also wanted to give you your souvenir.”
A weak cover.
Ninety percent of it was a lie.
But the remaining ten percent, I held that out to her.
“Oh, right. You mentioned that.”
“Yeah. Here.”
She took it, eyes lighting up as she looked it over.
“Huh… for something from Aikyan, this isn’t even a joke gift. It’s actually cute.”
“Hey! I can be serious when I want to be!”
She laughed softly.
“Thank you.”
“Yeah, yeah.”
She looked so happy.
So genuinely happy, just holding something I’d picked out, and suddenly, my chest felt too full.
Too tight.
Like something inside me was about to spill over.
“Hey… Rikako.”
“Hm?”
“…I like you.”
The words hung in the air.
Rikako froze.
“I’m sorry,”
I rushed on, heart pounding.
“I know we’re both girls, and maybe it’s weird, but—”
My voice trembled.
“I like you. I really do.”
Silence.
Complete, suffocating silence.
She didn’t move.
Didn’t speak.
And for a second, I thought,
I messed up.
I wanted to run.
But this was my house.
There was nowhere to go.
So I stayed.
And waited.
Minutes passed.
Then finally, Rikako blinked, like she’d just come back to herself.
“Um… about that…”
“Yeah?”
“…That’s what I came here to tell you.”
“…Huh?”
I stared at her.
“Wait—what?”
“I told you, didn’t I? I had something I wanted to talk about.”
“Wait, but—you already—no, you didn’t—wait—”
I was completely lost.
Rikako took a breath.
Then, quietly,
“Let me say it properly.”
She looked straight at me.
“Aikyan… no—Aika.”
My name.
Not the nickname.
Not the teasing version.
The real one.
“I like you.”
And just like that, I was done for.
Completely.
“…Really?”
I whispered.
“You think I’d joke about something like that?”
She said, a little flustered.
“Especially when we both know what it means… that we’re both girls.”
And that was it.
That was all it took.
“Thank youuuuu—!”
“W-wait—here too!?”
I was already crying.
I couldn’t stop.
I’ve always been like this, too emotional, too easy to break into tears.
And right now?
There was no holding it back.
“Because I’m happy…”
I choked out.
“I’m so happy…”
“You’re really too cute…”
“You are too…”
“Th-thank you…?”
Ah.
There it was.
When she gets embarrassed, she switches to polite speech.
Just like that one livestream.
I almost laughed through my tears.
And then, she stood up.
“What—”
Before I could finish, she pulled me into her arms.
Warm.
Close.
Real.
“Aikyan… I love you.”
“…Can you call me ‘Aika’ again?”
I murmured.
A small tease.
Just a little.
“…Geez,”
She huffed softly.
“Aika… I love you.”
I smiled against her.
“Yeah,”
I whispered.
“I love you too, Rikako.”
And just like that, we became us.
------------------
As for how the others figured it out and started bombarding us with questions?
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Months slipped by more gently than either of them had expected.
What began as tentative visits slowly settled into a rhythm, Yoshiko taking her motorbike every Friday after work, spending the weekend with Riko before returning to Numazu late Sunday evening. There were no emergencies, no overwhelming deadlines pressing down on them for once. Yoshiko’s schedule had eased, Riko’s classes, though demanding, were manageable, and somehow, they found themselves able to steal those weekends consistently. It became something quietly sacred: time that belonged only to them.
This Friday was no different.
The soft rustle of notebook pages, the faint clicking of pens, and the low hum of quiet conversation filled the lecture hall as Riko leaned forward in her seat, gold eyes fixed on the whiteboard. Her professor, an older woman with a stern voice and an endless library of knowledge, scribbled a timeline of Romantic-era composers in bold, confident strokes.
Riko’s notes were already meticulous, but she still underlined Liszt twice. He always fascinated her, his boldness, his expressive excess, the way he commanded both music and audience as if they were extensions of his own hands.
Beside her, Natsumi sat half-slouched, tapping her pen against her lips.
“Riko,” she whispered, barely turning her head, “be honest. If Chopin and Liszt got into a fist fight, who’d win?”
Riko blinked, clearly caught off guard. Then she smiled, tilting her head slightly as she considered it.
“I suppose… Liszt might have the advantage physically,” she said softly. “But I think Chopin would find a way to avoid the fight altogether.”
Natsumi raised an eyebrow. “So you’re saying he’d run away?”
Riko shook her head, still smiling. “No. I think he’d talk his way out of it. Or maybe just sit at a piano until everyone forgot what they were upset about.”
Natsumi grinned. “Good answer.”
That earned a quiet giggle from Riko before they both returned to their notes. Even so, Natsumi couldn’t help herself, she began doodling a very dramatic, overly muscular Liszt in the corner of her notebook, hair flowing as if caught in an invisible wind. Riko noticed and could only shake her head in amused resignation.
A little while later, the class ended, and students filtered out into the hallways. Riko and Natsumi made their way to the cafeteria nestled between the music and design buildings. The air smelled faintly of miso soup and curry, and sunlight poured generously through the wide windows.
They settled near the glass with their trays. Riko had picked her usual small rice set with pickled vegetables, she normally packed her own homemade bento, but on days when time slipped away between assignments and her part-time job, the cafeteria was a reliable fallback. The food was good, balanced, and filling enough.
Natsumi, on the other hand, had gone straight for a greasy katsudon she proudly referred to as “fuel for genius.”
“No bento today again?” Natsumi asked between bites.
Riko nodded. “I didn’t have time to cook last night. We had homework, and I got home from my part-time job a bit late.”
“I see, I see.” Natsumi smirked. “But if Yoshiko found out you were eating cafeteria food instead of following your own advice about healthy meals, she’d scold you. Like how you scold her.”
Riko huffed softly. “Even cafeteria food can be healthy, you know. There are vegetables.”
Natsumi nodded exaggeratedly. “Uh-huh. Sure. But cafeteria food is known to be unhealthy even if it looks healthy.”
That logic made absolutely no sense, and Riko could only laugh, shaking her head.
Just then, her phone vibrated against the table.
Natsumi noticed immediately. “Speaking of the devil, huh?” she teased, leaning in.
Riko chuckled and reached for her phone. The message was from Mari, one of her usual lunch updates. A photo filled the screen: Yoshiko caught mid-bite, clearly unaware she was being photographed, a bento prepared by Mari’s chef laid out neatly in front of her. Mari had added a sticker, soft puppy ears perched on Yoshiko’s head.
“Puppy’s eating good again~”
Riko covered her mouth as she giggled, warmth blooming in her chest.
“Thank you, Mari. Eat well there,” she replied before setting her phone aside.
Across from her, Natsumi grinned knowingly. “So how’s she?”
Riko let out a small, embarrassed laugh, eyes dropping to her tray as she tried, and failed, to hide her smile.
------------------
The next class of the day was ensemble, held in one of the larger practice halls. The space buzzed with quiet activity, half the students tuning their instruments, the other half warming up in hushed fragments of sound that overlapped without clashing. It felt chaotic on the surface, but beneath it all was an unspoken order everyone understood.
Riko sat at the piano positioned off to the side, her sheet music already clipped in place and neatly marked with pencil notes from earlier rehearsals. Today’s piece was contemporary, full of shifting harmonies, off-beat rhythms, and sudden changes that demanded constant attention. Her eyes traced the more difficult measures as she mentally mapped the transitions.
Natsumi took her place among the violinists and leaned slightly toward her.
“Deep breaths, Riko,” she said in a teasing yet oddly supportive tone. “Just imagine Yoshiko’s watching you.”
The name alone was enough.
Riko’s cheeks flushed instantly, and she looked down at her lap, fingers curling slightly.
Natsumi froze for half a second before bursting out, “Oh crap—did I break you or something? I definitely shouldn’t have said that if you’re just gonna sit there blushing.”
Riko let out a small giggle, shaking her head as she tried to compose herself.
Before Natsumi could say anything else, the ensemble director stepped up to the center of the room. He was a well-dressed man in his forties, sharp glasses perched on his nose and an expressive baton already poised in his hand.
“Alright,” he said briskly. “From the top.”
For the next two hours, Riko was completely absorbed.
Her fingers moved fluidly across the keys, adjusting tempo instinctively, listening closely to the strings, responding to cues, and subtly correcting dynamics as the piece unfolded. The music demanded flexibility and awareness, and she met it with calm professionalism. Even when she slipped on a tricky passage, she recovered smoothly, rejoining the ensemble without hesitation.
By the final run-through, the room felt tighter, more connected.
The director lowered his baton and nodded.
“Better than this morning,” he said. “Keep building that communication.”
As the group dispersed, Natsumi slung her violin case over her shoulder and wandered over.
“You played cleanly again,” she said with a grin. “No wonder you’re the professor’s favorite.”
“I’m not—!” Riko started, flustered.
Natsumi laughed. “I’m kidding. Clearly I’m his favorite.”
That earned another soft laugh from Riko as they began packing up.
As they finished, two classmates approached them, a friendly flute major and a soft-spoken cello player.
“Hey, Riko-san, Natsumi-san,” the flute player said brightly. “Do you two wanna come with us?”
“We were thinking of heading to the mall for a bit,” she continued. “Class ended early, so… just to relax. There’s a new dessert café that opened there.”
Riko hesitated. “Oh, uh…”
Natsumi immediately cut in. “We should go. You don’t have part-time later, right?”
Riko glanced away, still unsure.
“And Yoshiko won’t arrive until later too,” Natsumi added casually. “She knows your classes usually end later than this.”
That seemed to settle it.
“I mean…” Riko smiled gently. “Okay, I guess I’m free.”
“Yes!” Natsumi pumped her fist. “Come on, girls, let’s go!”
The others cheered in agreement, and soon they were on their way.
------------------
Not long after, the group was weaving through the mall, the afternoon crowd buzzing around them. The flute player practically dragged them into the café, a pastel-pink space filled with floral wallpaper, polaroids taped haphazardly to the walls, and display cases full of cakes that looked almost too pretty to eat.
They crowded around a table, which quickly filled with colorful parfaits, strawberry roll cakes, and iced matcha drinks.
“This place is very… Instagram,” Natsumi commented, stirring her drink.
“Right?” the flute player said excitedly. “Told you it was a great place.”
Riko took a bite of her raspberry cheesecake and closed her eyes briefly. Sweet and creamy, with just a hint of citrus, it was rich, almost overwhelming, yet oddly perfect after a long day.
Conversation flowed easily after that. They talked about professors, tough assignments, and who had fallen asleep during music theory the previous week.
It was Natsumi.
She accepted the teasing with dramatic flair, poking fun at everyone else in return, always with a fondness that made it clear she meant no harm. Riko found herself laughing more than she expected, slowly growing more comfortable with the group.
At one point, she glanced out the café window, watching the steady stream of people passing by.
Tokyo was loud. Fast. Overwhelming.
But it didn’t scare her the way it used to.
She really was starting to feel like she belonged, just a little.
Her phone buzzed beside her dessert plate.
Riko glanced down, and her breath hitched.
It was Yoshiko. “hey Riri. about midway now. stopped for a bit to message you. see you later at your school.”
Attached was a selfie.
Yoshiko held the phone slightly above her head, helmet visor pushed up so only her magenta eyes were visible. She was doing a casual peace sign with one hand, riding glove still on, the edge of her bike visible behind her. Cool, effortless, unmistakably Yoshiko.
Riko’s cheeks immediately warmed.
She saved the photo without even thinking.
“They let us go early today,” Riko typed back. “So I’m not at school anymore. Some of my classmates invited me to the mall, so I came with them. Natsumi’s here too. We can meet at home if you want?”
The reply came quickly. “Nah. I’ll come get you there. I wouldn’t want my beautiful girlfriend to tire her legs when I’m already on my way.”
Riko stared at the screen, heart doing something unfairly fast.
“You’re so unfair sometimes, Yocchan…
Okay. I’ll wait for you here.”
“Got it. Send me your location and I’ll be there in a bit.”
“Okay. Drive safe. Love you.”
“Love you too, Riri.”
She set her phone down carefully, only to realize that every single person at the table was staring at her.
Grinning.
Riko froze. “W–What is it?”
“Oh, nothing~” Natsumi sang. “It was just adorable how you were blushing at your phone.”
The flute player leaned forward, eyes sparkling. “Was that your cool girlfriend, Riko-san?”
The cello player smiled softly. “How nice.”
Riko’s face went completely red. She nodded, looking down. “…Yes. It’s her.”
That was all it took.
The three of them squealed at once.
“No fair!” the flute player whined. “I want one of those too!”
“Me too,” the cello player added wistfully.
“Right?!” Natsumi laughed. “If Riko hadn’t already captured Yoshiko, I would’ve grabbed her and stuffed her in my bag.”
“I—!” Riko started, panicking.
Natsumi waved her off. “Relax, relax. I wouldn’t steal her from you. I’m your friend you know, not a girlfriend-stealer.”
Riko exhaled, then smiled.
“And besides,” Natsumi continued dreamily, staring into the distance, “bad-boy types aren’t really for me. I want someone elegant. Take me on a horse, ride into the sunset, that kind of thing.”
The flute player snorted. “Is that because you’re already rowdy enough yourself?”
“Bingo!” Natsumi said, pointing dramatically.
They all laughed.
“I don’t think Yoshiko’s a bad-boy type,” Riko said softly. “She’s gentle. And kind.”
Natsumi tilted her head. “Are you sure she isn’t?”
The cello player chimed in thoughtfully. “I think I like readers. Someone quiet.”
She looked to the flute player. “You?”
The flute player grinned.
“Oh, I don’t mind bad-boy types at all. I want them to pin me to the wall and—”
And then—
—static noise—
—aggressive censor bar—
—something about hands, walls, very questionable metaphors and a very very detailed description of what she wants to be done to her—
Natsumi leaned in, nodding enthusiastically, eyes shining like she was attending a lecture.
The cello player stared, eyes wide, mouth hanging open.
Riko, meanwhile, felt her soul leave her body.
Her face burned crimson, eyes spinning, brain completely short-circuiting at the sheer lewdness of it all.
When the flute player finally stopped, Riko immediately hid her face behind her hands.
“I think,” the cello player said weakly, slumping back in her chair, “I need to wash my ears.”
Natsumi was grinning ear to ear. “Wow. That sure was something. But honestly? Same.”
“I’m glad you understand me,” the flute player said cheerfully. “Not like those two over there. So dramatic.”
Riko was still malfunctioning, and the cello player looked seconds away from melting into the floor.
Then the flute player tilted her head.
“Riko-san, why are you acting like that?” she teased. “You’re the one here with a girlfriend. I’m sure Yoshiko-san already did that to you.”
Riko snapped upright. “W–What?! N–No! We don’t! That’s too much! We only do normal stuff!”
The words left her mouth before her brain could stop them.
The flute player smirked. “Oh. Then you two have done it.”
Riko’s eyes widened. “H–Huh?! N–No, I mean— I didn’t—!”
Natsumi patted her shoulder. “Actually, you literally just said it. I can’t save you anymore.”
“So,” the flute player continued innocently, “how does it feel to be deflowered? Like… do you hear harps now?”
Riko choked on air.
I shouldn’t have joined them.
Save me, Yocchan.
------------------
After a while, it was time to head home.
Outside the mall, Tokyo’s evening lights were already beginning to glow as Natsumi, the flute major, and the cello player gathered their things. The crowd flowed around them, lively and loud, but the moment felt warm and personal.
“Thank you for coming today, Riko-san,” the cello player said with a gentle smile.
Riko returned it easily. “Thank you for inviting me. I had fun.”
“We should do this again sometime,” the flute player added brightly. “I’d love to hear more about you, especially your love life.”
Riko smiled, though it came out a little troubled. “Please don’t.”
Natsumi laughed. “See you on Monday, Riko! Say hi to Yoshiko for me!”
The three of them waved as they walked off together, voices fading into the crowd. Riko waved back until they disappeared from view.
Only then did she let out a long breath.
“I don’t think I can handle any more of that talk…” she muttered, shoulders slumping slightly.
The low rumble of an engine answered her.
A motorbike rolled to a stop right in front of her.
The rider wore a black helmet, visor down, leather jacket fitted neatly over broad shoulders, black pants catching the glow of the streetlights. The engine remained running as the rider leaned slightly toward her.
“Need a ride, miss?”
Riko startled, then looked up—
—and immediately knew.
Even with Yoshiko’s face hidden, she could tell.
Deciding to play along, Riko straightened and said, “I’m actually waiting for someone.”
“Oh?” Yoshiko replied smoothly. “Already meeting someone, huh? I bet whoever that is, is pretty cool.”
She lifted her visor just enough to reveal her magenta eyes.
Riko giggled. “Yup. Really cool.”
Yoshiko leaned in a little closer, brushing her hand lightly against Riko’s waist. “I bet they love you very much.”
Riko nodded, cheeks burning at the touch.
“Are you sure you don’t want to come with me?” Yoshiko murmured, her gloved hand sliding up to gently tilt Riko’s chin so she had to look up at her. “I can make it worth your while.”
Riko’s heart went wild. “Oh gosh,” she thought, gripping her bag tightly. “This kind of play is really working on me. I think I’m into the bad-boy act… If this keeps going, I might fall all over again.”
“Miss,” a sharp voice suddenly cut in. “Is this person bothering you?”
“They bothering you?” he asked, clearly referring to the rider.
Yoshiko immediately pulled her hand back. “N–No, this isn’t what it look lik—”
“Hey,” the guard interrupted, holding up a hand. “I’m not talking to you. I’m talking to the lady. Step back before I arrest you.”
Yoshiko stiffened and raised both hands in surrender. “I ain’t doing anything, I swear.”
“I heard what you said,” the guard continued briskly. “You’re picking her up. She said she didn’t want a ride and that she’s waiting for someone. So I think you’d better move along.”
Riko tried to speak, but the guard kept going.
“I know your type,” he said, pointing accusingly at Yoshiko. “Expensive bike, hanging around malls, picking up beautiful girls who look like they can’t say no. I’ve dealt with people like you.”
Yoshiko visibly panicked. “U–Uh, I—”
Riko grabbed the guard’s sleeve.
“Sir, p–please stop,” she said quickly. “She isn’t bothering me. She’s… she’s actually my girlfriend.”
The guard looked down at her. “Is that true?”
Riko nodded firmly.
“Then why did you say you were waiting for someone?” he pressed. “Miss, you don’t have to protect this person if you’re scared.”
“I’m telling the truth,” Riko said earnestly. “We were just playing around. I’m sorry if it looked wrong.”
The guard studied her for a long moment before sighing. “Alright. I’ll trust you… for now.”
He turned to Yoshiko, leaning in just enough to be threatening. “I’m watching you.”
Then he walked away.
The second he was gone, Yoshiko let out a long, shaky breath and lowered her hands, only then realizing they were still raised.
“That’s the second time,” she groaned, “someone thought I was picking you up like I’m some criminal. I’m never acting like that again. A security guard almost threw me in jail, Riri!”
Riko sighed… then giggled. “Maybe we can do it privately next time?”
“Privately, like getting thrown in jail?” Yoshiko teased.
“No, silly,” Riko said, blushing. “Role playing…”
Yoshiko’s eyes widened. “…That’s different. But I’m definitely down for that.”
She winked.
Riko’s face burned again.
“Well,” Yoshiko said, straightening and softening her tone, “Why don’t you ride with me now, my girlfriend Riri, so we can go home?”
She emphasized girlfriend deliberately as she handed Riko the pink helmet strapped behind the bike. Yoshiko steadied the bike, offering her arm so Riko could mount safely.
Once Riko settled behind her and secured the helmet, Yoshiko added lightly, “Just saying it out loud in case someone’s listening and thinking about arresting me again.”
Riko wrapped her arms around Yoshiko’s waist, resting comfortably against her back. “Don’t worry,” she laughed. “I won’t let anyone throw you in jail.”
“Thanks, Riri.”
The engine hummed as the bike pulled away, weaving smoothly into the Tokyo night, carrying them back toward Riko’s small apartment, and another weekend together.
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
After over an hour on the road, the sun had fully dipped beyond the horizon, leaving only the warm amber glow of the streetlamps to light their way. Yoshiko’s motorbike finally slowed to a stop in front of a modern apartment building in Shizuoka.
Lifting her visor, Yoshiko glanced up at the building and asked over her shoulder, “Is this the place?” She extended her arm so Riko could dismount safely.
Riko took her hand and stepped off, removing her pink helmet and exhaling. “Yup. Seems like the right place.”
“Okay then. Let me park this properly since we’re staying the night.” Yoshiko handed her helmet to Riko and gave a quick smile. “Wait for me here, alright?”
“Got it,” Riko said, now holding both helmets as Yoshiko revved the bike and carefully drove it around to the side parking lot. After shutting off the engine, she removed the keys, grabbed her duffle bag from the back, and jogged lightly back toward Riko.
“All set,” she said, reaching for her helmet. “Let’s head up?”
Riko nodded, and the two of them entered the building, taking the elevator up to the floor where Chika and You lived.
“I hope they’re home,” Yoshiko said teasingly as the elevator ascended.
Riko blinked and gave her a look. “What? You said their part-time ends by this time and they’re usually home.”
Yoshiko chuckled. “I know. Just messing with you.”
Riko gave her a playful punch on the arm, making Yoshiko grin wider.
When the elevator doors opened, they walked to the door with the address Chika’s mom had given them. Yoshiko checked the paper once more, then glanced at Riko.
“This must be it. Care to ring the doorbell, princess?”
Riko blushed a bit but pressed the button. From inside, they could hear You’s voice call out, “Just a minute!”
A few seconds later, the door swung open, revealing You in casual home clothes.
“Wha—Yoshiko?! Riko-chan?!” she gasped before immediately pulling them both into a hug. “What are you two doing here?”
“Surprising you,” Riko said with a sweet smile.
“Well come in, come in! Make yourselves at home,” You said, stepping aside and guiding them toward the living room.
As they sat on the cozy sofa, Riko looked around. “Your apartment’s really nice. It feels big and cozy.”
“It’s not that big,” You said modestly, “but thanks!”
“Well, compared to Riri’s apartment, this is huge,” Yoshiko added.
You laughed, while Riko pouted slightly. “Hey! Mine’s small because I live alone, you know?”
Yoshiko leaned back with a shrug. “Yeah, but I didn’t say I didn’t love it. It’s small, cute, cozy, and it fits you perfectly.”
Riko blushed lightly, and You grinned. “Nice dodge, Yoshiko.”
Before they could say more, the bathroom door opened, and Chika stepped out, towel around her shoulders, brushing her damp hair. “You-chan, who was at the doo—”
She froze mid-sentence, her eyes going wide as she saw the unexpected guests.
“Riko-chan!” Chika squealed and rushed forward to tackle-hug her, nearly knocking her onto the couch. “I missed you!”
Riko laughed softly, hugging her back. “I missed you too, Chika-chan.”
Yoshiko chuckled from beside her. “Looks like the trio’s reunited.”
Chika turned her head at the familiar voice. “Oh! Yoshiko, I missed you too!” She flopped beside You, still full of energy.
“Wait, did you just now notice me?” Yoshiko asked, deadpan.
Everyone laughed.
“So what brings you two all the way out here?” Chika asked. “Isn’t it kind of far for a date?”
Riko smiled. “We came to surprise you two, and check up on you.”
“Aw, that’s so sweet!” Chika beamed.
You shook her head fondly. “Oh, Chika-chan…”
Yoshiko added, “Riri actually came back to Numazu to visit everyone, and since you two aren’t in Tokyo, we thought we’d come here ourselves.”
“Well, I’m glad you did!” Chika said brightly.
You blinked. “Wait, but… how did you even find our apartment? We didn’t tell anyone.”
“Oh, we asked Chika’s mom,” Yoshiko replied. “She gave us the address.”
“I see, I see,” You nodded, impressed.
Riko then reached into her bag. “Oh, right! Your sisters gave us something to give you. They said you probably missed these.”
She handed Chika a small bag containing pudding and mikans.
“Wow! I really did miss these!” Chika said happily. “Mito-nee, Shima-nee… they’re so caring. I’ll message them later to thank them!”
“They sure know your favorites,” You said with a chuckle.
Chika nodded enthusiastically. “Yup! Did they say anything?”
Yoshiko leaned back. “Mito said something like, ‘Give this to stupid Chika.’”
You burst out laughing behind her hand, while Riko elbowed Yoshiko. “Yocchan!”
“Hey! I’m just the messenger!” Yoshiko said defensively, hands up.
“That Mito-nee!” Chika said with a comical fist shake, making them all laugh again.
“Oh! And I also brought some snacks from Tokyo,” Riko said, digging through her backpack.
She pulled out two souvenir boxes and handed them over. Chika and You both eagerly accepted them.
“Thanks, Riko-chan,” You said with a smile.
“Whoa—mikans, pudding, and Riko-chan’s souvenirs? This is the best day ever!” Chika said with sparkling eyes, hugging the box to her chest like treasure.
You then glanced down at the pink and black helmets sitting on the girls' laps. “Wait a second. What’s with the helmets? Did you two ride a motorbike here or something?”
“Oh, these?” Riko nodded. “Yeah, we came here on Yocchan’s bike.”
“You what? You have a motorbike now?” Chika gawked at Yoshiko.
Yoshiko leaned back on the sofa and casually said, “Yeah.”
Chika blinked. “Where is it now?”
Yoshiko deadpanned, “Uh… parked in the parking lot?”
“Oh. Yeah, duh,” Chika mumbled, scratching her cheek as Riko giggled behind her hand.
You shook her head at Chika’s moment but turned eagerly toward Yoshiko. “A bike, huh? What model is it? What does it look like?”
“I don’t really have a picture of it on me,” Yoshiko said. “Maybe I can show you tomorrow when we head down.”
“Oh! I have a photo,” Riko chimed in.
Yoshiko turned toward her, surprised. “You do?”
“Yup~” Riko said proudly, unlocking her phone and opening the gallery.
Chika bounced slightly in her seat. “Show us! Show us!”
“Yeah, show us!” You joined in, mirroring her enthusiasm.
Riko giggled and finally found the photo, turning her phone toward them.
It was a candid shot, Yoshiko’s motorbike parked in front of the Geidai campus gate. The bike gleamed under the sun, sleek and striking, while Yoshiko herself was leaning against it, arms crossed, casually chatting with a few of Riko’s schoolmates. She hadn’t noticed the photo being taken.
“Whoa, the bike looks so cool!” Chika said.
“It’s very you, Yoshiko,” You agreed, eyes glinting with admiration.
Yoshiko leaned in and looked at the picture herself, blinking. “I didn’t know you took a photo of me that time.”
Riko smiled, just a little shyly. “You looked so cool in that moment… I couldn’t help it. I hope you don’t mind.”
Yoshiko grinned. “I don’t. You can take more pictures of me if you want. I’ll even pose for you whenever.”
You groaned teasingly. “I love this whole flirting energy you’ve got going on, but… just a reminder, Chika-chan and I are still sitting here.”
Chika ignored her. “Shush, You-chan! This is like watching a live-action romance movie. I love it.”
Riko blushed and hid her face in her hands, while Yoshiko just laughed, clearly enjoying every second.
You crossed her arms and said, “Well, anyway, looks like you can just zoom over to Tokyo whenever you want now, huh?”
Chika added with a grin, “And wait for Riko-chan outside her school gates like a cool character from a drama!”
Yoshiko smirked. “Yup. And it’s all thanks to ‘the three.’”
Chika tilted her head. “The three?”
“Yep, Mari, Kanan, and Dia.”
You blinked. “Wait, they bought you the bike?”
“Well... kinda. Mari’s the one who bought the motorbike, she said she wanted me to wait for Riko outside of school like some kind of movie heartthrob. Kanan pitched in by getting me the leather jacket to match, and Dia gave me the safety gear: gloves, helmet, and even the handlebar phone bag. So yeah, it’s a whole group effort. And honestly… I’m really grateful.”
“Wow!” Chika’s eyes sparkled. “They’re so kind!”
“Yeah,” You agreed. “Everyone pitching in like that? You’re lucky, Yoshiko.”
Yoshiko scratched the back of her neck, a sheepish smile on her lips. “Yeah… I honestly don’t know what I’d do without them. And I don’t even know how to repay them properly.”
“I’m sure they already know how thankful you are,” Riko said gently, smiling at her.
Yoshiko looked at her and nodded. “Yeah…”
You leaned forward with curiosity. “So, what model is it? From the photo earlier, it looked really classic, but in a cool way.”
“Oh, it’s a Honda CB1100EX. Special edition,” Yoshiko said.
Chika gasped, even if she didn’t quite know what that meant. “Whoa! That sounds fancy. And ‘special edition’? So like, super rare?”
“It is rare, Chika-chan,” You explained patiently. “That’s what ‘special edition’ means.”
“Ohh…” Chika nodded slowly. “But wait, how did Mari-chan even get it?”
Yoshiko shrugged. “No clue. She just said she ‘pulled some strings’ and boom, next thing I knew, it was mine.”
“That’s so Mari,” You laughed. “Awesome and a little crazy.”
“She is the definition of awesome-crazy,” Yoshiko agreed, grinning. “But I’ll never stop being grateful.”
“Speaking of Mari,” Riko said, pulling out her phone again, “she actually sent me this photo too.”
She turned the screen toward them. It was another candid shot, Yoshiko riding the motorbike just outside Uranohoshi’s front gate. She had the leather jacket Kanan gave her, the helmet and gloves from Dia, and she looked like she had just rolled out of a high-end fashion magazine for biker girls.
“Whoa, you’re like a model!” Chika said in awe.
“Seriously, super cool,” You added.
Yoshiko stared at the photo, a bit stunned. “That Mari… sneaking pictures again…”
Riko giggled beside her. “You really do look cool in that photo, Yocchan.”
Yoshiko turned a bit pink. “Thanks…”
“Hoho~ blushing~” You teased with a smug grin.
Yoshiko turned away, flustered, trying to hide it.
Then Chika said excitedly, “You-chan, you should get a motorbike too! You’d totally look cool on one.”
“Oh yeah,” Yoshiko agreed. “I can totally see that.”
Riko nodded. “You’d look great.”
You waved her hands, flustered. “Me? Nah… you’re all hyping me up too much.”
“It’s not hype, it’s facts!” Chika insisted.
You chuckled, her cheeks slightly pink. “Well, thank you. I’ll think about it. But with the career I’m aiming for, it’s not exactly practical. I mean, I’ll probably be on ships a lot.”
Chika tilted her head. “Oh—but maybe you can ride it on the ship?”
Yoshiko burst out laughing. “Technically, she has a point.”
Riko and You both started laughing at the absurd image.
Yoshiko leaned in with a sly smirk. “But hey, once you’re off the ship, just imagine cruising around on your bike, wind in your hair, maybe with someone special on the back seat.”
You blinked. Her face turned red instantly, and she glared sharply at Yoshiko, mouthing “Stop that!” with a look only Yoshiko noticed.
Yoshiko quickly added with a grin, “Like me and Riri, you know? Just a sample scenario~ I was totally just imagining me and Riri, that’s all.”
You let out a silent sigh of relief, casually wiping imaginary sweat from her brow.
You glanced at them and said, “So, are you two planning to stay in a hotel or something? Because if not, you can stay here tonight. You can use my room, I'll crash in Chika-chan’s.”
Chika instantly brightened. “Yes! Stay here! I can have a sleepover with You-chan again!”
Riko smiled. “That was actually the plan. I hope it’s not too much trouble.”
You waved a hand. “So that’s why you already brought your bags. And of course we don’t mind! We’re all friends here.”
“Thanks for letting us stay,” Yoshiko said, a bit formal.
You looked at her and deadpanned, “Stop being so polite. It’s weird.”
Yoshiko chuckled. “Right, right.”
“Anyway,” You added, “have you two eaten already? I was just about to cook before you guys showed up. We just got home from part-time.”
Riko quickly offered, “Aren’t you tired? I can cook if you want.”
“Nope, nope,” You said firmly. “You’re our guests. Just sit down and let me handle it.”
Riko smiled, “Okay, okay,” chuckling softly.
Chika grinned. “You’re in for a treat! You-chan’s cooking is amazing!”
Yoshiko raised a brow. “You gonna help cook too, Chika?”
Chika waved her hands. “Me? Oh no no, I’m just here to eat You-chan’s food.”
Yoshiko snorted. “Why am I not surprised.”
You laughed as she tied her apron on. “Chika-chan’s just here for moral support.”
The three girls giggled, and before long, they all found themselves hanging out in the kitchen while You cooked. They talked and caught up on everything, the conversation warm and relaxed.
------------------
Not long after, the four of them were gathered at the small dining table, enjoying a simple but delicious meal. The scent of freshly made food filled the cozy apartment.
Riko took a bite and smiled brightly. “Mmm! This is really good!”
“Told you!” Chika said proudly. “I love You-chan’s cooking!”
“Yeah,” Yoshiko added, “it’s delicious. Though… I mean, it’s no Riri’s cooking.”
“Yocchan…” Riko blushed.
You chuckled. “It’s okay, Riko-chan. We’re talking about Yoshiko here. Of course she’d pick your food. She’d probably pick anything as long as it’s from you or for you.”
Yoshiko nodded matter-of-factly. “That’s true.”
Riko blushed more.
Suddenly, Chika chimed in innocently, “I would pick you too, You-chan!”
You and Yoshiko froze.
Riko casually continued eating. “Aww, that’s sweet, Chika-chan.”
You blinked. “Wh-what did you say, Chika-chan?”
“Huh? I said I’d pick You-chan! You-chan’s food!” Chika said brightly.
You exhaled. “Ah, right. Haha. Thanks…”
Yoshiko raised an eyebrow. “You should really be careful with how you word things, Chika.”
Chika tilted her head. “Why? I’m just saying the truth.”
Riko blinked. “Did she say something wrong?”
Yoshiko quickly waved it off. “Nope. Nothing. Let’s just keep eating, yeah?” She glanced at You, who was still flustered, staring down at her food, and chuckled to herself.
------------------
A little later, You looked up and said, “Since you two are staying the night, want to go somewhere tomorrow?”
“Sure!” Riko smiled.
“Any place in mind?” Yoshiko asked.
“Not really,” You said. “We haven’t really gone around Shizuoka much. Even though we’ve been here for a few months now, we just… go to school, work part-time, come home exhausted, sleep, repeat.”
Chika nodded. “Yeah. So now that you two are here, it feels like a great chance to finally go out and explore!”
“But don’t we have part-time tomorrow?” Chika added suddenly.
You waved her off. “Maybe we can excuse ourselves. Our manager’s super nice. I’ll message her real quick.”
As she tapped away on her phone, Riko said, “It’s fine if you guys have work. We can just stay here at the apartment.”
“Yeah,” Yoshiko added. “Or we can even come by your café and chill. You guys work together there, right?”
“Yup! Just like Riko-chan did!” Chika beamed.
Yoshiko chuckled. “So you're together at home and at work? Nice.” She gave You a pointed look and a thumbs-up.
You groaned softly, shooting her a knowing glance only Yoshiko caught, making her laugh quietly.
Chika leaned her cheek into her hand with a dreamy smile. “I wish we could go to school together too… then we’d be together all day…”
Yoshiko raised an eyebrow at You again, smirking as she watched the girl freeze up slightly.
Just then, You’s phone buzzed. She read the message and lit up. “Looks like our manager said we can take the day off! She said we’ve been working hard lately, so we deserve it.”
“Yay!!” Chika clapped. “Field trip tomorrow!”
------------------
A little while after dinner, Yoshiko had insisted on washing the dishes, despite the protests, and eventually, they let her. Meanwhile, the rest of the group moved back to the living room to talk.
Chika stretched on the sofa and said with a grin, “I can’t believe our teacher is washing dishes in our apartment.”
You shook her head. “If she hears you say that, you’re done for.”
From the kitchen, Yoshiko called back, “I heard that! And I’m not your teacher anymore, remember?”
Chika blinked and laughed, “Oh yeah. Right. Sorry!” She chuckled again, clearly unbothered.
Riko smiled and added, “She’s the one who usually washes the dishes when it’s just the two of us anyway. So this is… pretty normal.”
You nudged Riko teasingly. “Like a very married couple, huh?”
Riko blushed slightly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear but didn’t deny it.
You grinned and stood, stretching her arms overhead. “Well, I’ll go tidy up my room before you two use it.”
“Okay, thank you,” Riko said sweetly.
You gave a small wave and headed down the hallway to her room.
Now alone in the living room, Chika leaned in a bit and asked, “So, Riko-chan, anything exciting happen lately?”
Riko thought for a moment, then shook her head. “Not much. Just the things we’ve already talked about on the phone. That’s pretty much it.”
Chika puffed out her cheeks. “Ugh, that’s boring. Then again… same here.” She laughed.
Riko giggled with her. “It’s kind of nice though. Peaceful.”
Just then, Yoshiko walked back in and plopped down on the sofa next to Riko. She stretched her arm casually along the back of the couch behind her and said, “What are you two talking about?”
Chika leaned forward. “Just how boring our lives are.”
Yoshiko nodded solemnly. “Ah. That’s awesome.”
Riko and Chika both laughed at the deadpan delivery.
You soon returned from her room, wiping her hands on a towel. “All done! You two can use my room now.”
“That was fast,” Riko said, surprised.
You shrugged. “There wasn’t much to clean. I live like a civilized person… unlike a certain someone.”
She side-eyed Chika.
“What?! I’m clean too!” Chika protested.
You grinned. “Anyway, feel free to do whatever you want in there. Sleep… or whatever.” She added a knowing tone, clearly teasing.
Riko turned bright red, instantly catching the implication. Yoshiko, however, was oblivious.
“Oh, thanks!” Yoshiko said casually, grabbing her small duffle bag and Riko’s backpack. “We’ll do just that. Ready to go, Riri?”
Riko nodded shyly, cheeks still pink. “Okay.”
“Good night, you two!” Chika waved, chipper as ever. “See you tomorrow!”
“Yeah,” You added. “Don’t wear yourselves out too much. We’re going out tomorrow. Chika-chan and I will look up some places to visit.”
“Thanks again,” Yoshiko said as they walked toward the guest room.
Riko, still flustered, murmured a soft “Good night,” before disappearing into the room with her.
Meanwhile, You and Chika stepped into Chika’s room.
“Yay! Sleepover with You-chan again!” Chika beamed.
You shook her head fondly and said, “Let me borrow your laptop. We’ve got to figure out where we’re going tomorrow. So… where do you want to go, Chika-chan?”
Chika bounced on her bed, already unlocking her laptop. “Somewhere fun!”
With that, the two began browsing ideas for their impromptu mini adventure.
------------------
Inside You’s room, Yoshiko immediately plopped face-first onto the bed with a satisfied sigh. “Ahh… finally lying down.”
Riko giggled softly at the sight. “Well, you did drive a lot today. You must be exhausted.”
“Yeah…” Yoshiko mumbled into the mattress.
Riko sat on the edge of the bed and said gently, “Don’t fall asleep yet. Change into your sleepwear first.”
Yoshiko rolled over with a lazy grin. “Dress me?”
Riko flushed. “H-huh?”
Yoshiko snorted, standing up. “Relax, I’m just kidding.” She peeled off her leather jacket and hoodie, changing into her favorite comfy sleep shirt and a pair of sweatshorts like it was the most casual thing in the world.
Riko looked away with a blush on her cheeks as she slipped into her own sleepwear: a pair of soft shorts and a loose top.
Just as she reached for her shirt, a hand gently curled around her stomach from behind. She gasped, startled, as a warm body pressed up against her bare back.
“Yocchan…” she whispered.
“Let’s leave your shirt off,” Yoshiko murmured against her neck, lips brushing her skin before planting a slow, deliberate kiss just below her ear.
Riko shivered, her eyes fluttering shut as she leaned back into Yoshiko’s body. “Mmm…”
From this point onward, explicit sexual content (R-18) will be included. If you're not comfortable with this, feel free to skip ahead or scroll down to the next scene—skipping won’t affect the story. If you're okay with it, enjoy the rest of the story!
Yoshiko’s hands wandered upward, slipping beneath Riko’s bra to cup and massage her breasts. Riko moaned softly at the touch, head falling back onto Yoshiko’s shoulder. One of her hands reached up to cradle the back of Yoshiko’s head while the other gripped her arm. She arched her back slightly, offering more of her neck as Yoshiko continued kissing it.
“Nnnh…” Riko whimpered as her nipples were gently pinched between skilled fingers, sending a jolt through her spine.
“You better lower your voice,” Yoshiko whispered hotly into her ear, “or your friends will hear you.”
Riko nodded faintly, breath catching as pleasure began to build. Yoshiko’s left hand remained at her chest, teasing and playing, while the other slipped downward, under the waistband of her shorts, beneath the thin fabric of her underwear, until her fingers met heat.
“So wet already,” Yoshiko muttered with a hint of a smirk.
She stroked Riko’s slit slowly, fingers gliding along the soft folds, teasing with alternating pressure, sometimes deep, sometimes just circling the nub. Riko bit her lip hard, her hand tightening in Yoshiko’s hair, the other gripping her arm for support. Each touch sent a new wave rolling through her.
Then, two fingers slid inside without warning.
Riko inhaled sharply, hips jolting forward as she clung to Yoshiko, a quiet gasp slipping from her lips.
“Hhh…”
Yoshiko began pumping them in and out, deep and steady.
“Nn… nn… mmh…” Riko whimpered, her hips rocking back to meet the rhythm, chasing the friction. Her moans stayed muffled, lips parted with soft, breathy sounds as her body trembled in Yoshiko’s hold.
“Ah… ah… mnh…”
Her pace quickened, desperation rising, thighs tightening, body trembling.
“Mmh… mmn… nn—!”
Riko came hard, her back arching into Yoshiko as her legs gave out. She let out a broken moan, soft but deep, as her nails dragged down Yoshiko’s forearm, leaving red trails behind. Her entire body tensed, then melted slowly into her lover’s arms.
Yoshiko held her close, grounding her, waiting until her breathing steadied.
Riko’s legs buckled again, too weak to stand. Yoshiko kept her upright, gently supporting her weight.
When she finally withdrew her hand, Riko let out another small, shaky moan, a shiver running up her spine.
Still catching her breath, Riko turned to face Yoshiko, eyes lidded, cheeks flushed, lips slightly parted. Her arms wrapped around Yoshiko’s neck, pulling her in for a kiss that was hot, needy, and full of want.
Yoshiko groaned softly into it, her tongue slipping deep as their mouths moved together with slow, desperate intensity. Riko moaned into the kiss, her fingers tangling in Yoshiko’s hair as their bodies pressed flush.
As they kissed, Yoshiko’s hands moved to Riko’s back, finding the clasp of her bra. With practiced ease, she unhooked it, letting it fall softly to the floor.
Still kissing, Yoshiko gently guided Riko backward until her back touched the bed. Riko let herself sink into the mattress, her hair fanning out over the pillow, looking up at Yoshiko with eyes full of love, and a deep, burning hunger.
Yoshiko stood for a moment, looking down at her with parted lips, breath shaky. There was something reverent in the way she stared, like Riko was something sacred.
Then, without a word, she knelt between Riko’s legs and slowly pulled down her shorts and underwear in one motion. A thin string of wetness clung from the soaked fabric to Riko’s glistening core, and Yoshiko swallowed hard before discarding the garments to the side.
Riko was now completely bare before her, skin glowing under the soft room light, chest rising and falling quickly, pink flush spreading across her chest and cheeks.
Yoshiko leaned down and kissed her, first on the lips, then her neck, her collarbone, the soft swell of her breast, her stomach. But she didn’t stop at her core. She moved lower, past it, planting a soft, slow kiss on the inside of Riko’s thigh.
Riko whimpered lightly, breath trembling as she watched with wide, shining eyes.
Yoshiko kissed her inner thigh again, this time closer in, and again, until finally, she reached Riko’s slit. Her lips pressed against it in a slow, deliberate kiss, and Riko let out a soft, gasping
“Hn…”
Yoshiko took her time.
She mouthed and kissed her gently, like she was savoring every taste, every reaction. Her tongue moved in slow, rhythmic strokes, flat and deliberate, as her hands gripped Riko’s hips to keep her steady beneath her.
“Mnnh… ngh…” Riko whimpered, hips twitching as her hands reached down to find Yoshiko’s hair. She didn’t pull, just held, needing something to anchor her.
Yoshiko’s tongue moved in gentle circles, then flicked with more precision, making Riko’s back lift slightly off the bed.
“Ah…! Hh—nnh…” she gasped.
Yoshiko continued, tongue flattening again, then flicking over her nub with maddening control. Riko’s body squirmed, a soft whisper escaping her lips.
“Hhh… y-Yocchan…”
It was breathy, broken, like she could barely form the words.
Her legs trembled as she bit down on her lip, trying to stay quiet. But when Yoshiko hummed softly against her, the vibration sent another shiver through her.
Yoshiko shifted slightly, angling her mouth with careful precision, her tongue now flicking in small, focused movements that had Riko trembling even harder. One of Yoshiko’s hands left her hip and gently stroked along her side, a silent reassurance.
I’m here. I’ve got you.
Riko’s body trembled beneath her. One arm came up to cover her eyes, the other still clinging to Yoshiko’s hair as her voice grew more strained.
“Nnh… mnh… ha—ah… I–I’m…”
But Yoshiko didn’t stop. If anything, her tongue slowed, more tender, more deliberate, like she wanted to guide Riko there, not push her over the edge too quickly.
Riko gasped, thighs trembling violently, breath catching in her throat.
“Hhhnn…! Nnnh… Yocchan—!”
Her voice cracked as she came, hips jerking, her whole body arching into the warmth of Yoshiko’s mouth. Her moan was muffled into the crook of her elbow, but her body said everything, shuddering, clenching, trembling in the quiet waves of release.
Yoshiko stayed there for a moment, kissing her softly through the aftershocks, her touches light and reverent now. Then she rested her cheek against Riko’s inner thigh, her breath still warm, her face flushed, lips parted slightly.
Riko slowly peeked down at her from beneath her arm, eyes glassy, skin glowing.
“I love you, Yocchan,” she whispered, voice shaking with emotion and lingering bliss.
Yoshiko gave a soft chuckle, lifting her head just enough to kiss her thigh again.
The explicit scene has concluded. From here onward, the story returns to its regular content. Feel free to continue reading—there are no further explicit elements ahead. Enjoy the rest of the chapter!
After a moment of rest, Yoshiko gently got up from between Riko’s legs, slipping off the bed. She padded over to her duffle bag and pulled out a small packet of tissues, holding it up with a proud grin.
“Look, I came prepared.”
Riko, still catching her breath and her eyes crinkling as she lay back, flushed and still glowing, giggled quietly at Yoshiko’s dorky smile.
Yoshiko pulling a few tissues out and gently wiping her own face first, her expression softening as she cleaned away the lingering signs of Riko’s release. She then knelt between Riko’s legs again, careful and quiet, and began wiping her with slow, gentle strokes, tender and unhurried.
Riko let out a small breath, watching her quietly, a little embarrassed but mostly touched. Yoshiko always did this. Always made sure she was comfortable. Always took her time.
When she was done, Yoshiko gave her a light pat on the thigh and said playfully, “There. Clean again.”
Riko let out a small sigh of contentment. “Thank you, Yocchan.”
“Anytime,” Yoshiko replied. She stood, crumpled the tissues, and tossed them into the trash with a casual flick. Then she turned back and gathered Riko’s discarded clothes, her underwear, bra, and shorts.
“Let’s get you dressed,” Yoshiko murmured, almost to herself, and began gently slipping each piece of clothing back onto Riko. Riko didn’t protest, simply lying there under her care, letting Yoshiko move with ease and familiarity.
Once Riko was dressed again, Yoshiko smoothed her clothes over with a final tug and leaned down to kiss her forehead.
“We don’t want them barging in tomorrow and seeing you naked,” she teased, brushing a lock of hair behind Riko’s ear. “Because I’m the only one who’s allowed to see all of you.”
Riko’s heart fluttered a little. Even in moments like this, especially in moments like this, Yoshiko’s care always left her feeling warm. “Thank you… again.”
Yoshiko smiled at her, all gentle fondness now, and slid into bed beside her. She pulled the blanket up over them and wrapped an arm around Riko’s waist, drawing her close.
Riko nuzzled into her chest, her breath evening out as Yoshiko held her.
“We should sleep,” Yoshiko murmured, pressing her lips to the top of Riko’s head. “We’re going out tomorrow, remember?”
“Mm… yeah,” Riko replied sleepily, her voice already fading.
The room fell into a peaceful hush, broken only by the soft, even breaths of two hearts resting close, warm, safe, and deeply in love. Sleep took them gently, just as the night wrapped itself around the quiet rhythm of their steady, shared silence.
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
At Riko’s apartment in Tokyo, early morning light streamed softly through the curtains. It was the weekend, and both Yoshiko and Riko were still curled up in bed. Yoshiko had her arms wrapped around Riko from behind, her face buried comfortably in her girlfriend’s shoulder.
Riko stirred first, blinking awake to the quiet warmth of Yoshiko’s hug. A gentle smile formed on her lips as she reached up and rested her hand over Yoshiko’s arm, her fingers drawing slow circles along her skin. She missed this, the quiet comfort, the weight of Yoshiko’s arm around her, the soft, even breath at her neck.
Then Yoshiko shifted slightly, her voice still thick with sleep. “What’s up, Riri…?”
“I’m sorry,” Riko said again, continuing to trace lazy circles on Yoshiko’s arm.
“It’s okay. You’re good,” Yoshiko murmured, tightening her hold just slightly. “And good morning, Riri.”
“Morning, Yocchan,” Riko replied, glancing back just enough to press a soft morning kiss to Yoshiko’s lips. Yoshiko happily kissed her back before they both eased into the stillness again.
Still with eyes closed, Yoshiko asked, “So, what are we gonna do today?”
Riko thought for a moment. “Hmm, I’ve got part-time work later… and some homework I should get done. I was thinking we could hang out and relax a bit before I head to work.”
“That’s fun and all, but…” Yoshiko whispered as she kissed the back of Riko’s neck, “I was thinking of doing something you really missed.”
Riko smiled, eyes still half-lidded. “Mmm, I don’t know… we might not have time.”
“Oh, I think we do,” Yoshiko said in a lower voice, her lips trailing kisses along the nape of Riko’s neck as her fingers wandered down her stomach in slow, teasing circles.
Riko let out a soft sigh. “I think… I can make time for that.”
“Yeah?” Yoshiko propped herself up on her elbow and leaned closer, her breath hot against Riko’s ear.
“Mmhmm…” Riko hummed, tilting her head as Yoshiko’s lips found her neck again, then her lips, kissing her slowly, deeply.
Their bodies moved closer, hands finding familiar places, breaths growing shallow. Just as Yoshiko slid her hand down Riko’s thigh and things started to heat up—
Ding-dong.
They both froze. Yoshiko lifted her head, clearly irritated. “Was that… the door?”
“Probably,” Riko whispered, pulling her girlfriend in again. “It’s probably a mistake. Ignore it.”
Yoshiko didn’t need to be told twice. Their lips met again, warm and urgent.
Ding-dong.
Ding-dong.
They both paused this time, breathless. Yoshiko groaned and flopped back onto the bed, staring up at the ceiling. “Man… we were at the good part.”
Riko giggled, sitting up and running a hand through her messy hair. “I’ll go check who it is. Then… maybe we can continue.”
“I like that plan,” Yoshiko said, grabbing her phone from the nightstand to scroll through while she waited.
Riko padded over to the door in her oversized sleep shirt and shorts. She opened it, only to freeze in surprise.
“Shun!?”
Dressed casually but a bit too polished for a surprise visit, Shun stood there holding a small bag. “Surprise!” he grinned.
“W-What are you doing here?” Riko asked, trying to smooth down her bed hair. “We didn’t plan anything today.”
“I know,” Shun replied. “But I’m heading back to Numazu tomorrow, so I thought I’d ask you out one last time before I go. Just the two of us—if that’s okay.”
Before Riko could respond, Yoshiko’s voice called from inside. “Riri? Who is it?” A moment later, Yoshiko appeared at the door, yawning as she walked up in a loose hoodie and shorts. She spotted Shun and smiled. “Oh, hey Shun!”
She casually slipped her arm around Riko’s waist, which made Shun visibly stiffen, though he hid it quickly.
“Yeah, hi,” Shun said, forcing a polite smile. “Did I interrupt something?”
“Well…” Yoshiko started, thinking back to their interrupted makeout session.
Riko nudged her sharply with her elbow, making Yoshiko chuckle. “Nope. So, what’s up?”
“I just wanted to invite Riko out again before I go back,” Shun said, looking only at Riko now. “I didn’t really get a one-on-one hangout with her yet. Mind if I borrow her today?”
Yoshiko looked at Riko with a warm smile. “If Riri’s okay with it, I’m okay too.”
Riko returned the smile, a little torn, but nodded. “Okay. But just for a bit, alright? I have work later.”
“Of course! I’ll even take you to work after,” Shun said, clearly pleased. “Thanks, Riko.”
“Okay. I’ll just get ready, do you mind waiting outside for a bit? I don’t really have a separate room here, so…”
“Oh yeah, no problem,” Shun said. “I’ll be right out here.”
“Thanks. See you in a bit,” Riko said, closing the door.
“Later,” Yoshiko added.
As Riko closed the door and walked back inside, Yoshiko flopped down on the bed with a sigh, arms spread dramatically.
“Well… looks like we won’t be able to continue our little ‘schedule’ from earlier,” she said with a sly smirk, clearly referring to their earlier makeout session.
Riko glanced at her and smiled sheepishly. “Yeah… I was really looking forward to that.”
Yoshiko chuckled. “You gonna be okay though? I mean… you’re not too turned on to focus, right?”
“Y-Yocchan!” Riko’s eyes went wide, face instantly flustered.
“What?” Yoshiko teased. “I’m just being concerned, you know? I mean, if you’re still all worked up, I could give you a quick release or something…”
She disappeared into the bathroom in a hurry. Yoshiko couldn’t help but laugh to herself. “Okay, Riri! I’ll make breakfast for you~” she called out playfully.
From inside the bathroom, Riko answered with an embarrassed, “T-Thank you, Yocchan.”
Yoshiko chuckled again and shook her head fondly as she moved over to the compact kitchen space, setting about preparing a simple breakfast.
------------------
A short while later, Riko stepped out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped around her, hair still damp and sticking slightly to her skin. Yoshiko was already seated at their small dining table, breakfast prepared and set: two egg sandwiches, cut neatly in half.
“Let’s eat, Riri?” Yoshiko offered, glancing up.
“Just let me put on some clothes first,” Riko replied, walking toward the wardrobe cabinet. She paused and looked over her shoulder. “Hey, Yocchan… can you turn your head for a bit?”
Yoshiko turned halfway with a knowing grin. “Riri, you know what I’m gonna say, right? Why be shy now, when I’ve already seen everythi—”
Before she could finish, a towel smacked her face.
Riko had thrown it, cheeks pink. “Don’t look!”
Yoshiko let the towel stay over her head, laughing. “Okay, okay! But for the record, this towel smells really nice…”
When Riko pulled the towel off her head, she shot Yoshiko a flustered glare. “Perv.”
Yoshiko just grinned. “A perv who loves you.”
With a sigh and a shake of her head, Riko folded the towel and set it aside. Then she sat down across from Yoshiko at the table.
“I might not be able to eat much, since I’m going out with Shun…” she said a bit reluctantly.
“Yeah, I figured,” Yoshiko nodded, resting her chin in her palm. “That’s why I just made your favorite, egg sandwich. It’s fast, easy, and tasty.”
Riko’s eyes softened as she looked at the meal in front of her. “Thank you, Yocchan…”
“Only the best for my Riri. Now let’s eat, okay?”
“Yep!”
The two of them shared a quiet breakfast, their feet brushing now and then under the table. It was domestic, warm, and sweet in a way that made Riko’s heart feel full.
------------------
Meanwhile, outside the apartment building, Shun was pacing slowly near the door, checking his watch and tapping his foot.
“There’s no way she forgot I’m out here, right?” he muttered. “Or is it her... Is Yoshiko stopping her from coming? Just like how she probably manipulated Riko into dating her in the first place?”
He narrowed his eyes slightly, whispering under his breath.
“I need to tell Riko how I really feel. Before I leave. I have to save her from that woman… She’ll understand. Maybe she’ll come with me.”
Just then, the door finally opened.
Riko stepped out, dressed and ready. Yoshiko stood behind her in the doorway, her expression warm.
“Sorry if I made you wait,” Riko said politely.
“Oh, no no, it’s alright,” Shun said quickly. “Shall we go?”
“Sure.” Riko turned back to Yoshiko and smiled, then stepped close to give her a quick goodbye kiss on the lips.
Yoshiko smiled and kissed her back softly. “See you later, Riri.”
Shun winced internally but held his expression. “Just borrowing your girlfriend for a bit. I’ll take care of her, but don’t worry, I’ll bring her back.”
“You better,” Yoshiko said with a small, teasing smirk. “Have fun, you two!”
They waved to her, and Yoshiko stepped back inside, closing the door gently.
As the elevator doors opened, Shun and Riko stepped in.
Inside the elevator, Shun and Riko stood in silence until Riko spoke first, trying to lighten the mood.
“So… where are we going today?”
Shun smiled casually. “I was thinking we could grab breakfast first before heading to the other places I’ve planned.”
“Oh—uhm,” Riko gave an apologetic smile. “Sorry, I already had breakfast with Yocchan. I’m still a little full… I hope that’s okay.”
Shun paused briefly before answering, keeping his tone light, “Ah, yeah, no problem at all. Let’s just skip breakfast then and go to the first destination.”
In his head, though, he was already cursing. Damn it, my plan’s already getting ruined by that woman again.
------------------
They soon arrived at Ueno Park, walking side by side beneath the soft bloom of cherry blossoms. The petals floated in the breeze like confetti, the pathways lively with people out enjoying the view.
“I missed this,” Shun said as he looked up at the canopy of pale pink. “Aren’t you glad I invited you out today? It looks like the cherry blossoms are just blooming.”
Riko smiled. “It is beautiful. But actually… Yocchan already took me to Okinawa earlier this year to see the cherry blossoms. They bloom earlier there.” Her tone softened with the memory. “It was really thoughtful of her.”
“Oh, that’s… nice,” Shun said, forcing a chuckle. “How thoughtful of her indeed.”
Damn her, he muttered silently in his mind.
Their next destination was the swan boats, an activity popular with couples for its romantic charm.
Shun pointed toward the lake. “Want to try that?”
“Sure,” Riko nodded.
Shun approached the rental stand. “One boat, please.”
The attendant smiled cheerfully and gestured toward an available one. “That one’s open, go right ahead,” she said, then added with a wink, “You two make such a cute couple.”
Shun was about to thank her when Riko quickly waved her hands.
“Oh, no, we’re not a couple,” she explained politely. “I’m actually in a relationship with someone else. Shun’s a childhood friend, we’re just catching up. He’s like a brother to me.”
The attendant’s eyes widened. “Oh! My mistake. Sorry about that. Well, be sure to bring your special someone next time, they’d love it here.”
Riko smiled brightly. “I will.”
Shun swallowed his irritation as they boarded the boat. Still about her, he thought bitterly.
After a short ride, filled mostly with light conversation and the occasional awkward silence, they made their way to Ueno Tosho-gu Shrine. The atmosphere was quieter here, more peaceful. They stood before the shrine together, hands clasped in prayer.
Shun’s thoughts burned: Please… I want Riko to wake up. Leave that person. Come with me.
Riko’s prayer was calm and full of warmth: I hope to succeed in piano and live a wonderful life with Yocchan, always.
After praying, Shun turned to Riko and said, “Wanna try drawing our fortune?”
“Sure, sounds fun,” she said, nodding.
They each pulled an omikuji.
Shun unraveled his and read silently:
Bad Fortune
Love: Your wish will not be granted. Obsession invites sorrow. Stepping back is virtue.
Marriage: There is no future in misguided desire. Rethink your path.
Wish: A true wish cannot be built on another’s pain.
He stared at it in disbelief, his knuckles tightening around the paper before he crumpled it and tossed it toward the side, anger simmering beneath his smile.
Meanwhile, Riko looked delighted. “Oh, look at mine!” she said brightly. “I got Great Blessing!”
She read aloud:
Love: Your love is wrapped in truth; unwavering hearts will protect lasting happiness.
“Isn’t that sweet?” she said, holding it close.
Shun forced a laugh. “Yeah…”
She continued reading the other lines:
Marriage: Your bond will deepen and endure. Love is already tied and will bear fruit.
The one you wait for: Already by your side, do not overlook it.
“I’m keeping this,” Riko said, tucking it carefully into her bag. “I want to show it to Yocchan later.”
Shun’s jaw tightened. What a lying fortune…
Riko looked around. “Oh, wait—what about yours? Where’s your omikuji?”
Snapped from his thoughts, Shun blinked. “Huh? Oh, I already tossed it out. Didn’t realize I was supposed to keep it.”
Riko giggled. “You’re supposed to! So, what did yours say?”
Shun lied without blinking. “Actually, same as yours. Crazy coincidence, right?”
Riko blinked in surprise. “Really? That’s… really surprising.”
“Right?” Shun gave a small, forced chuckle. “Maybe we’re destined or something.”
“Huh?” Riko raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean—?”
“I’m kidding!” Shun laughed and quickly added, “Anyway, let’s move on to the next place.”
Riko nodded, though a tiny crease formed in her brow as she followed.
------------------
Back in Riko's apartment, Yoshiko was lounging lazily on Riko’s bed, legs stretched out and tangled in the covers, phone pressed to her ear as she talked with Kanan.
“So why are you bothering me while you're all the way in Tokyo?” Kanan teased on the other end. “Feeling lonely or something?”
Yoshiko rolled onto her side, burying her face into Riko’s pillow before answering, “Not really. It’s just that Riri isn’t here, and I’ve got nothing to do.”
Kanan snorted. “Isn’t that literally what lonely means?”
Yoshiko sighed. “Yeah, yeah, whatever.”
Kanan chuckled softly. “So, you said Riko’s with her cousin?”
“Not her cousin, her childhood friend,” Yoshiko corrected. “They’re catching up before he goes back home.”
“And… you trust him?”
Yoshiko was quiet for a moment before she replied, “Hmm… maybe? I don’t really know the guy. But I trust Riri. That’s enough for me.”
Kanan paused before saying, “That’s… actually really sweet. Are you sure you're Yoshiko and not a pod person?”
“I’ll punch you,” Yoshiko grumbled playfully.
Kanan laughed. “So you’re not even a little jealous they’re out together?”
Yoshiko stared at the ceiling for a moment. “Hmm… no? Maybe? Okay, yes, a little. I mean, he is her childhood friend, but I’m not gonna stop Riri from spending time with someone important from her past. I’m not a controlling person. She has her own life, and I respect that.”
Kanan exhaled softly. “That’s really mature of you. Who knew you had it in you?”
“Keep talking and I’ll revoke it,” Yoshiko warned.
Kanan laughed again. “But honestly, if it were me, I don’t think I’d stop Mari either. Even if she’s a little extra—”
“You mean completely insane,” Yoshiko cut in.
Both of them laughed.
“Like you said,” Kanan continued, “we each have our own lives. And I trust her.”
“See? Exactly,” Yoshiko said. “Plus, Riri and Shun are basically like relatives at this point. I doubt Shun even sees her like that, and he knows she’s in a relationship. I mean, who in their right mind would try to steal someone else’s partner?”
Suddenly, Mari’s voice shouted through the phone, loud and theatrical. “What’s this I hear about stealing someone!? Yoshiko, who are you stealing!? I didn’t raise you to be a kidnapper—or an adult-napper!”
Yoshiko yanked the phone away from her ear with a wince. “Can you not shout directly into the phone, you crazy woman!? And you didn’t raise me!”
“Oops, sorry~” Mari giggled in the background.
Kanan was laughing too. “You called it, you really did.”
Yoshiko groaned. “I didn’t even know you were at Mari’s.”
“Well,” Kanan said smugly, “you’re not the only one hanging out with your girlfriend on the weekend.”
“What are you talking about? You two are literally together every day, at work, at school, everywhere.”
Mari’s teasing voice chimed in again. “Well, can you blame her? Kanan just can’t keep her hands off me~”
“Gross,” Yoshiko deadpanned.
Kanan just laughed.
Suddenly, there was a knock at the door. Yoshiko’s head turned toward the sound, and she sat up.
“Hold up,” she said into the phone. “Someone’s knocking. I’ll call you later, Kanan.”
“Sure, talk to you later!” Kanan replied.
Mari added with a cheeky laugh, “Be sure to call us after we’re done with our rough se—”
Yoshiko quickly ended the call.
“I don’t need to know that,” she muttered to herself, standing and heading for the door.
------------------
Now at a quiet restaurant tucked into a corner of Ueno, Shun and Riko sat face to face at a table dressed in white linen, the plates between them filled with carefully plated upscale dishes. Shun had ordered generously, and now the table was filled with small bowls, sauces, and entrees.
“Dig in,” Shun said with a smile, motioning toward the food.
Riko blinked at the spread. “This is a lot,” she said, but picked up her chopsticks and took a polite bite.
“This is nothing. We can order more if you want,” he said casually.
“Oh, no thank you. This is more than enough already,” Riko replied.
Shun leaned back slightly and added, “Eat plenty. I know you probably don’t get to eat fancy stuff like this often anymore, right?”
Riko tilted her head. “What do you mean by that?”
“Ah, it’s nothing,” Shun said, brushing it off with a wave and a chuckle.
Riko let it slide for now and quietly returned to eating.
After a few bites, Shun spoke again. “You know, since we’ve been catching up a lot… why don’t you tell me more about Yoshiko? Like, how did that even happen? You were still a student, and she was already a teacher, right?”
Riko paused briefly, but answered calmly. “I asked her for help… for guidance, really. I was struggling to find my confidence back then, and she helped me break out of my shell. Bit by bit, she showed me how to stand on my own, and… well, I fell for her as she did that.”
Shun gave a polite nod but his tone shifted. “Are you sure that’s what happened? That she helped you? Not… led you into a relationship? I mean, that kind of power dynamic is weird, don’t you think?”
Riko blinked. “What are you trying to say?”
“I mean… teachers know how to influence people. Students, especially vulnerable ones, are easy to… you know, manipulate or even gaslight. I’m just saying, maybe you didn’t realize it, but maybe she took advantage of how you felt at the time.”
Riko’s chopsticks froze in mid-air.
“And look, if it were me, I wouldn’t do that to you. I would’ve waited for you to be ready, not pushed you into something like that,” he added.
There was a sharp pause before Riko calmly set down her chopsticks.
Her voice was quiet, but it cut like glass. “How could you say something like that? Do you even hear yourself?”
Shun opened his mouth, but she went on.
“I’m not some kid who was blindly manipulated. And to say something like that about Yoshiko—to accuse her of taking advantage of me? Gaslighting me? That’s awful. And wrong. You don’t know what we went through together… what she’s done for me. She didn’t hurt me. She saved me. Not just emotionally, but physically, too. She gave me strength when I had none. Without her, I wouldn’t be who I am now.”
Shun sat there, stunned by the sharpness in her tone.
Riko continued, her voice still even but laced with disappointment. “So hearing you talk about her like that… it hurts. It really hurts.”
There was a moment of silence between them before Shun lowered his head slightly and said, “I… I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you. I was clearly mistaken. I apologize.”
Riko let out a breath and looked down. “Sorry for snapping. I just get really protective when people talk like that about her.”
“Yeah… I get it,” Shun said quietly, though his tone lacked the warmth of sincerity. He looked up again. “But… I mean, we’re still young, right? You really think she’ll be your last relationship?”
Riko looked at him, stunned, not with anger this time, but with something colder. Disbelief.
“I’m sorry,” she said, voice calm. “I can’t do this anymore.”
Shun blinked. “Huh?”
“I didn’t believe Natsumi at first when she said you liked me. I thought we were just catching up. I was happy to see you again. That’s all it was. That’s why I kept hanging out with you. But maybe… maybe I let this go on too long. Maybe you thought I was leading you on. And if I gave you that impression, I’m sorry.”
She stood up quietly and added, “But even if I wasn’t in a relationship right now, I still wouldn’t see you that way. I see you like a brother. Like family. You’ve always been a family friend… and that’s all I’ll ever see you as.”
“Wait—” Shun stood up quickly, trying to reach for her.
“I think it’s best we don’t see each other for a while,” Riko said gently but firmly. “Until you can clear your head… and stop seeing things that aren’t there. I want to go back to being friends. The way we used to be.”
She turned and walked away, her heels clicking softly against the restaurant floor.
Shun stood there frozen in place, his hand still hovering in the air, watching her walk out of his reach.
His eyes lowered, staring at nothing.
And Riko, though her heart was heavy, walked steadily toward her part-time shift, her pace calm, her mind already seeking comfort in the thought of seeing Yoshiko later.
------------------
Yoshiko stood up from the bed, stretching a little before walking over to the door when she heard knocking. She peeked through the peephole and saw an office lady standing outside, knocking softly.
“Riko?” the woman called.
Yoshiko opened the door with a small smile.
The woman blinked, startled. “Oh, uh…” She looked at the door number again, confused. “Did I get the wrong apartment?”
Yoshiko chuckled. “No, this is the right place. You’re looking for Riko, right? She’s out right now. I’m watching her place. I’m her—”
The woman stared at her for a moment, squinting slightly like she was trying to remember something. Then her eyes lit up. “Oh! You’re Yoshiko, right? Riko’s girlfriend?”
Yoshiko was caught off guard. “Yeah… I am. How did you know?”
“She talks about you all the time! And she even showed me your picture once,” the woman said cheerfully.
Yoshiko’s face went a bit red. “She did?”
“Yeah! I have to say, you’re even cooler-looking in person,” she said with a laugh. “Oh! I’m Natsuki, by the way. I live next door to Riko.”
“Thank you,” Yoshiko said, flustered but smiling. “Nice to meet you, Natsuki-san.”
Natsuki waved her hand. “No need for the -san, we’re already friends now. Anyway, I was just stopping by to see if Riko wanted to have dinner with me. I actually cooked something decent today—or at least I think so.”
“Oh, sorry,” Yoshiko replied. “She might be back a little later.”
Natsuki shrugged. “That’s okay then! How about you join me instead? Eat with me and tell me more about Riko. I love hearing about your love story!”
Yoshiko blinked. “Uhm… sure, if that’s okay with you.”
“Great! Since you’re watching her place, I’ll just bring the food here. Wait for me, okay?”
------------------
A little while later, the two sat together at Riko’s small dining table, a couple of dishes laid out between them. Natsuki took a sip of her tea and leaned forward.
“Soo… tell me about your love story,” she said, eyes gleaming with curiosity.
Yoshiko scratched her cheek, clearly not used to this kind of attention. “Well… we met at school. She asked for my help… guidance, really. She wanted to be more confident. And the more we met, the more she grew. And as she changed… I guess, so did my feelings. I started to see her differently. I… started falling for her.”
She paused, scratching her head again. “Sorry, I’m not very good at telling stories. Riko’s usually the one who does that.”
Natsuki smiled softly. “No, that was perfect. The way you said it? I can tell how much you love her.”
Yoshiko blinked. “You can?”
“Yeah. Or maybe I just don’t know what love is yet,” Natsuki said with a small laugh. “I’ve been single since birth, probably till the end of time. It’s not like I don’t want love, but maybe I’ve been trying too hard. Love must’ve gotten scared and ran off.”
Yoshiko chuckled. “I don’t think that’s true. Everyone deserves love, you know? Maybe the person meant for you is just busy with life right now. But I’m sure they’ll find you.”
Natsuki looked at her, touched. “Sweet words like that make me feel hopeful… and maybe want a drink.”
That made Yoshiko laugh more genuinely. “Just don’t lose hope. Hang in there.”
Time passed. The food was gone, dishes washed. The two remained at the table, still talking about anything and everything, when the sound of a key in the lock caught their attention.
The door opened, and Riko stepped inside, blinking at the sight of the two together.
“Oh,” she said, clearly surprised.
Both Yoshiko and Natsuki waved at her from the table.
Yoshiko immediately stood up and walked to her. “Welcome back, Riri!” she said before giving her a quick, warm kiss on the lips.
Natsuki giggled. “Ooh~ How sweet.”
“I’m back,” Riko replied, cheeks a little pink but smiling.
Natsuki stood and stretched. “Sorry for barging in. I was gonna invite you to dinner since I cooked, but you weren’t here. So I ended up feeding your lover instead.”
Riko chuckled. “That’s totally fine. Thanks for taking care of her.”
Natsuki grinned. “It was nice finally meeting your Yoshiko. But I better head home, I’ve got work tomorrow.” She moved to the door, grabbing her things. “Bye~!”
“Bye! And thank you for the food,” Yoshiko called.
“Good night,” Riko added, waving as well.
Natsuki waved back before stepping out and gently closing the door behind her.
With the door now closed behind Natsuki, Riko and Yoshiko were finally alone in the quiet apartment again.
Riko sat down on the sofa with a soft sigh, and Yoshiko followed, flopping down beside her with one arm draped casually across the backrest behind Riko’s shoulders.
“So,” Yoshiko said, glancing at her with a gentle smile. “How was your day?”
Riko leaned into the cushions, looking a bit worn. “It was great... but,” she said, trailing off.
“But?” Yoshiko echoed, raising an eyebrow.
Riko hesitated for a moment before turning slightly toward her. “Shun started saying... bad things about you.”
Yoshiko blinked, surprised but not upset. “He did? Like what?”
Riko exhaled slowly. “Stuff about how you might’ve manipulated me into loving you, or how our relationship started off wrong since you were my teacher. Just... ugly things about our relationship.”
Yoshiko listened quietly. Her expression stayed calm, but her hand flexed a little against the back of the sofa.
“Was it just about me?” she asked gently.
Riko looked at her, her voice soft but certain. “Yeah. Only you.”
Yoshiko gave a small, relieved nod. “Then that’s fine.”
Riko looked at her in surprise. “It is?”
Yoshiko smiled a little. “Yeah. If he said anything bad about you, I’d have sprinted out that door just to punch him in the face.”
Riko opened her mouth to protest, but Yoshiko beat her to it with a knowing grin. “Don’t worry, I won’t.”
Riko relaxed a little, but her brows furrowed. “Still… aren’t you mad or hurt by what he said?”
Yoshiko leaned back, thoughtful. “Not really. I kind of expected it, to be honest. Our relationship wasn’t exactly ‘normal’ in the beginning, so talk like that was bound to happen eventually. We just got lucky. Everyone around us has been supportive so far. I’m just glad he didn’t say anything cruel about you.”
Riko's eyes lowered for a moment before she confessed, “He actually… likes me. As in, he really likes me.”
Yoshiko raised her eyebrows. “Seriously? Didn’t see that coming.”
“You’re really not mad?” Riko asked.
Yoshiko shrugged. “Why would I be? It’s not your fault he has feelings for you. Unless… you want me to go and knock him ou—”
“No!” Riko quickly stopped her. “Please don’t.”
Yoshiko chuckled. “I’m kidding, Riri.”
Riko relaxed again, leaning slightly against her. “Aren’t you even a little jealous?”
“Hm…” Yoshiko tilted her head. “Saying I’m not even a little jealous would be a lie. So yeah, a bit. But it’s not the kind of jealousy that hurts. I trust you, Riri. I know you’d never do anything to hurt me.”
Riko smiled slowly and leaned in, hugging Yoshiko tightly. “Of course I wouldn’t. I love you so much, Yocchan.”
Yoshiko wrapped her arms around her with a soft laugh. “I know. I love you so, so much too.”
After a while, Riko pulled back and looked down guiltily. “I’m sorry.”
Yoshiko frowned slightly. “Sorry? For what?”
“I… I was actually thinking of not telling you about what Shun said,” Riko admitted. “But I couldn’t. I don’t want to hide anything from you. It just felt wrong.”
Yoshiko gave her a small, grateful smile. “Thank you for telling me, Riri. Really.”
Riko hugged her again, burying her face in Yoshiko’s shoulder.
“So… where is he now?” Yoshiko asked softly, rubbing her back.
“I think he went back,” Riko replied. “I left him at the restaurant. I got angry when he started saying those things about you. I told him I didn’t want to see him anymore, not until he clears his head and sees things properly again.”
Yoshiko pulled back slightly, her expression amused. “You? You got angry?”
Riko nodded shyly. “Yeah… I don’t like people talking bad about you. It really made me mad.”
Yoshiko’s eyes twinkled with affection. “That kind of makes me happy, not gonna lie. Thanks, Riri. And…”
“And?” Riko asked.
Yoshiko leaned in close, lips brushing her ear, and whispered, “Hearing you get mad like that… kinda sounds hot.”
Riko turned bright red, frozen for a moment, then looked away with a shy pout.
Yoshiko smirked, her voice lowering playfully. “So… since you’re home now… how about we continue what we started this morning?”
Riko’s blush deepened, but she nodded silently.
Yoshiko grinned. “You sure?”
Another small nod. And with that, Yoshiko leaned in, kissing Riko’s neck tenderly as her hands slowly found their way around her waist again. Riko exhaled, her fingers tightening around Yoshiko’s shirt as the two of them melted into each other on the couch. The outside world faded, leaving only the warmth of arms and soft sighs behind closed doors, as night gently settled in.
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
It was now the middle of the week, and Shun had been staying at the Sakurauchi household for several days. He hadn’t been doing much, just lounging around or wandering Numazu on his own. But today, he finally decided the time was right.
Riko had mentioned she’d be less busy this week, so Shun packed his things, said goodbye to Riko’s mom, and headed off to the train station with one goal in mind: to surprise Riko in Tokyo.
------------------
Meanwhile, back in Numazu, at Uranohoshi…
Yoshiko entered the faculty office, helmet tucked under one arm, her Bluetooth earphone snug in one ear. She was in the middle of her usual early morning call with Riko, a habit they’d developed over time, chatting on the way to school and work.
“So,” Yoshiko said casually, plopping down at her teacher’s desk and leaning her weight against it with a grin, “are you still busy this weekend, Miss Girlfriend? Can I finally visit you again?”
On the other end, Riko sat at her university desk, holding her phone to her ear with a small smile. “Nope, not busy anymore. You can totally visit me.”
Yoshiko beamed. “Really? That’s great, then. I’ll see you in three days. Be sure to ready your body~” she added teasingly.
“Yocchan!” Riko squeaked, flustered.
Just then, Riko noticed her professor walk into the room. “Oh! My professor just came in. I’ll talk to you again later, Yocchan. Bye, love you!”
“Love you too,” Yoshiko replied before the call ended.
No sooner had she hung up than Yoshiko noticed Dia standing nearby, arms crossed and staring at her with an all-too-familiar deadpan look.
“Yeah, what is it?” Yoshiko asked, blinking.
Dia sighed. “Please refrain from saying inappropriate things while on school property.”
Yoshiko scratched the back of her head sheepishly. “Right, right. Sorry. I didn’t even notice you were there.”
“So you’re saying if I wasn’t here, you’d say worse things?” Dia raised an eyebrow.
Yoshiko shrugged. “Yeah, probably. I mean, Kanan enjoys it.”
Next to Dia, Kanan chuckled and gave a small nod. “Yeah, true.”
Dia turned slowly to her. “Maybe because she’s been updating a certain someone about your relationship?”
Yoshiko’s eyes widened. “Kanan! How could you?!”
“What? I would never tell Mari—”
Both Dia and Yoshiko stared at her with pure skepticism.
Kanan laughed nervously. “Okay, maybe I do. A little.”
Yoshiko shook her head, clearly betrayed, but jokingly. “I trusted you.”
Kanan put her hands up defensively. “She just knows how to pull it out of me, okay?”
“You’re so whipped,” Yoshiko teased.
“W-What!? Well, you’re whipped too, you know!” Kanan fired back.
“I am not!” Yoshiko huffed.
Dia let out a long sigh and stood up, brushing invisible dust from her skirt. “You two are like children. Both of you are completely whipped,” she muttered, walking toward the classroom hallway.
Kanan and Yoshiko blinked, speechless.
“…Yeah, well,” Kanan said, recovering first, “I bet Dia’ll be just like us when she gets into a relationship.”
Yoshiko raised an eyebrow. “There you go again, running your mouth. And when she gets mad at you, you’ll be crawling to me to bail you out.”
Kanan laughed awkwardly. “But you will help me, right?”
Yoshiko shrugged with a smirk. “Depends on my mood.”
“Hey—!” Kanan whined.
Yoshiko chuckled. “Honestly though, I bet Dia won’t be the one who gets whipped. She’s gonna do the whipping.”
Kanan burst out laughing. “Yeah, that’s probably true.”
They both cracked up in the middle of the teacher’s lounge, drawing a few curious glances.
------------------
Meanwhile, Dia walked through the hall, ignoring the slight shiver that ran down her spine as a gust of wind passed. She continued with her usual composed gait, making her way toward her classroom.
On her way, she passed Ruby and Hanamaru heading up the stairs. Both girls waved at her enthusiastically.
Hanamaru echoed her in her usual calm tone, and the two disappeared up the stairs as Dia headed toward her room.
------------------
It was lunchtime, another peaceful break in the principal’s office.
As usual, Yoshiko sat with Mari, Dia, and Kanan, enjoying the lunch prepared by Mari’s private chef. True to her promise to Riko, Mari had been making sure Yoshiko always ate properly, and today was no exception.
The sound of quiet chewing and light conversation filled the room, until a sudden flash of blinding light interrupted everything.
“W-WHAT was that!?” Yoshiko flinched mid-bite, blinking furiously as the sudden burst of light practically seared her retinas. She squinted and looked over, seeing Mari holding up her phone.
Dia and Kanan didn’t even flinch. They just continued eating, clearly used to this kind of nonsense.
Mari replied as casually as ever, “I took a picture of you. Was it not obvious?”
She turned to Kanan for support. “Wasn’t it obvious?”
Kanan chuckled and nodded, clearly entertained.
Yoshiko rubbed her eyes and groaned. “Yes, obviously! But did you have to use a flash strong enough to power a satellite?! I saw my life flash before my eyes, and it was just me eating!”
Mari grinned. “Well, it was a great shot. Caught you in the middle of a very passionate bite of eggroll.”
Yoshiko narrowed her eyes. “Let me guess… Is this for that group chat with Riri’s mom and my mom again? Riri’s not even in the picture this time, so I doubt it’s that valuable.”
Mari shook her head. “Nope! Not this time~”
Yoshiko frowned, now genuinely curious. “Then what’s the picture for?”
Mari held up her phone proudly. “This one’s for Miss Girlfriend.”
“…Riri?” Yoshiko tilted her head. “But why?”
Mari beamed. “Every day, whenever you eat lunch, I send her a photo of you, just a little update to show that you’re eating properly.”
Yoshiko blinked. “You… what? That’s not true.”
“It is~” Mari sang, opening her chat history and showing it to Yoshiko. There it was, today’s picture, already sent to Riko.
Yoshiko read it, stunned. “She never told me anything about this…”
“Of course she didn’t,” Mari replied, proud of herself. “It was my idea. I told her not to say anything because I wanted to see if you’d ever notice me taking pictures.”
Yoshiko’s mouth dropped slightly. “Wait—you said every time I eat, right? So… how long have you been doing this?”
“Since you started eating my bentos. So... from the beginning.”
Yoshiko’s eyes widened in disbelief. “That long?! Why didn’t I notice?! Are you a stalker?!”
Mari put a hand to her chest, feigning offense. “Me? A stalker? Never! I’m just a caring informant, a loyal updater of your girlfriend.”
Dia finally spoke up, chuckling. “Is that even a real word?”
Mari waved her off. “Everything’s real in my world.”
Dia gave her a deadpan look before shaking her head and returning to her meal.
Mari continued, “I was getting worried, you know. You never noticed, not even when I started being really obvious. It reminded me of when Kanan and I were so obviously dating, and you still had no idea.”
Kanan nodded, chewing her food. “Honestly, that was kinda impressive.”
Yoshiko sighed. “Well, congrats. You’ve officially fried my eyes and exposed your weird spy games.”
Mari smirked. “You should thank me. You never know when someone’s secretly taking a photo of you from afar, at least with me, it’s out of love~”
Yoshiko jabbed a finger at her. “Love or not, you’re the only one creepy enough to do that!”
Mari gasped dramatically. “How rude! This was all for Riko!”
“I’ll let her thank you instead,” Yoshiko muttered.
Mari shrugged. “Hey, you never know. With how cool you look on that bike of yours, maybe fans are out there snapping pics.”
“Fans? Right. As if I’m that popular,” Yoshiko scoffed, continuing to eat.
Mari leaned toward Dia and nudged her. “Can you believe that guy?”
Dia just stared at her silently. Mari held her hands up in surrender. “I kid, I kid!”
Dia sighed. “Are you two done with your little performance? Some of us would like to enjoy lunch without theatrics.”
Yoshiko raised her hands. “Hey, I didn’t ask to get flashbanged.”
Dia fixed her with a stare.
“…Okay, okay, I’m kidding. Chill,” Yoshiko mumbled, going back to her food.
Kanan chuckled and said with a grin, “So much energy during lunch.”
------------------
A little while later, with lunch finished, the four of them decided to lounge around in Mari’s office for a bit before the bell rang for afternoon classes.
Kanan leaned back in her seat and looked over at Yoshiko. “Oh, by the way, Yoshiko.”
Yoshiko glanced up from her phone. “Yeah?”
Kanan smirked a little. “Ever since you got that motorbike, students have been giving me thank-you cards for the leather jacket I gave you.”
“Huh?” Yoshiko blinked.
Kanan nodded, clearly amused. “Seriously. I get like two or three a week. And I think it’s not just me. You two got some too, right?” She looked over at Mari and Dia.
Dia gave a slow nod. “Yes. Your students, especially, have been slipping thank-you notes into my desk. And some of them even handed them directly to me in the hallway.”
Mari raised a hand proudly. “Yup! I got a whole stack. Some even came with snacks~ They kept saying I’m a genius for giving you that motorbike idea.”
Kanan made a face. “Wait, you got snacks? That’s not fair. I want snacks too.”
Dia chuckled. “Well, Mari did provide the biggest contribution, so it makes sense she gets the snacks.”
“Yeah, yeah, makes sense,” Kanan grumbled playfully.
Mari leaned toward her with a grin. “Don’t worry, my Kanan~ I’ll give you whatever snacks you want~” she said, fluttering her lashes with a wink.
Kanan rolled her eyes but smiled. “Okay, that’s much better.”
Meanwhile, Yoshiko was still sitting there trying to make sense of the conversation. “Wait, wait—can you two stop flirting for a sec and, like, fill me in? What exactly is happening?”
Dia crossed her arms. “Basically, ever since you started showing up on school with your new ride and that leather jacket, students have been fangirling, thanking us, the so-called gift-givers, for helping complete your ‘cool sensei’ image.”
Yoshiko stared. “…But why?”
Dia blinked at her. “I just literally told you why. Did you not hear me?”
“No, I heard you,” Yoshiko replied. “But like… why though?”
Dia let out a sigh and looked away. “I’m passing on explaining it all over again.”
Kanan laughed. “It’s because you’re popular, you goof. You’re probably the most popular teacher in the whole school.”
Yoshiko waved it off. “No way. That’s not true. The popular ones are you guys. Maybe they were just thanking you for being great teachers.”
All three of them stared at her.
Mari rested her chin in her hand and said dryly, “You sure are something.”
“Huh? Did I say something weird?” Yoshiko asked, clearly puzzled.
“No, no,” Mari said with a sigh. “You’re just fine. Completely oblivious. Adorably so.”
Kanan chuckled. “Just don’t forget to wave back here and there when you’re riding that thing, okay? You’re probably giving someone a heart attack with how cool you look pulling up on it.”
Yoshiko still looked a little lost but nodded anyway. “Uh… yeah, sure. I’ll try.”
Dia shook her head with an amused smile.
Mari perked up again and held up her phone. “Well, anyway~ Now that we’re talking about it, hold still. Let me get another snap of you to send to Riko.”
Yoshiko raised her hands in mock surrender. “Here we go again…”
The camera flash went off once more.
------------------
Now over at Riko’s side in Tokyo, at her university, Geidai.
Classes had just ended for the day, and Riko was still in the classroom with Natsumi. The two were finishing up some final touches on their project work before heading home when a knock came from the doorway.
A student from another department peeked in. “Is Sakurauchi-san here?”
Riko looked up from her notes. “Yes?”
“There’s someone waiting for you at the school gate,” the student said before stepping back out.
Riko blinked. “Oh... okay, thank you.”
Natsumi raised a brow and smirked. “It’s definitely Yoshiko.”
Riko tilted her head, confused. “But it’s still the middle of the week... it’s not even the weekend yet. Why would she suddenly visit?”
“Maybe she just missed you so much she couldn’t wait,” Natsumi teased.
Riko glanced down at her phone. “But she didn’t say anything about it...”
“Maybe it’s another surprise?” Natsumi said, already standing up and tugging on Riko’s arm. “Come on! Stop questioning it and go see your lady.”
Riko laughed softly. “Okay, okay. Let me just pack up my stuff.”
After gathering her things, the two girls headed out together, walking down the hall toward the front of the school. As they turned the corner near the main gate, they spotted a person holding up a bouquet of flowers in front of their face, clearly waiting for someone.
Natsumi squealed softly. “Aww! That’s so romantic!” she whispered, already convinced it was Yoshiko.
Riko giggled and blushed. “What is she doing...” she murmured to herself, also assuming it was her girlfriend.
But the moment they got close, the figure dropped the flowers to reveal their face.
“Surprise!” said the boy with a grin.
Riko froze. Natsumi looked confused. And then—
“Shun!?” Riko blurted out in shock.
“Yup, it’s me!” he said cheerfully, stepping forward and immediately pulling Riko into a hug.
“I missed you,” Shun added warmly.
Riko stiffened a little, surprised, but politely returned the hug with a simple, “Yeah...”
It wasn’t Yoshiko. And the weight of that disappointment settled quietly on her chest.
Natsumi stood beside them, visibly caught off guard, eyeing Shun with thinly veiled curiosity.
Shun stepped back from the hug and gave a small laugh. “You looked disappointed there for a second.”
Riko gave him a polite smile, trying to stay composed. “Oh, no, I was just surprised, that’s all. What are you doing here?”
“Right,” he said, holding the bouquet out to her. “It’s break time at my university, so I decided to spend a week back in Japan. I’ve actually been staying at your place—well, your mom’s place. I thought you’d be there, but your mom said you were busy in Tokyo, so I figured I’d come surprise you.”
“I see... well, it’s nice to see you again,” Riko said, “After that family gathering, it’s been a while.”
“Yeah, that gathering made me feel really nostalgic,” Shun said with a grin. “I missed hanging out with you.”
Riko gave another polite nod. “I see...”
Shun held out the bouquet again and said, “Oh right, here—these are for you.”
Riko looked at the flowers, her hands twitching slightly, clearly hesitant to accept them. She wasn’t sure how to politely decline without making things awkward.
Sensing that hesitation immediately, Natsumi smoothly stepped in between them with a cheerful grin. “Ooh! I love these flowers! Are these roses and tulips?” she said, taking the bouquet with exaggerated admiration. “So pretty!”
Both Riko and Shun blinked in surprise at her sudden move.
Natsumi continued without missing a beat, turning to Riko. “Oh, sorry—is it okay if I have these? I know he meant them for you, but you know how much I love these flowers, right?”
Riko quickly caught on to what Natsumi was doing and giggled softly. “Sure, go ahead.”
She then turned to Shun and said, “Oh, right. This is my friend and classmate, Natsumi. Natsumi, this is Shun, he’s an old childhood friend of mine.”
Shun forced a smile. “Yeah, nice to meet you,” he said, simply nodding.
Natsumi was about to shake his hand, but when he didn’t move, she blinked and said, “Oh, we’re nodding now? Got it.” She nodded back coolly, making Riko laugh quietly again.
“Oh, by the way,” Riko said, turning to Shun, “where are you staying while you’re in Tokyo? Or are you planning to head back to Numazu soon?”
Shun rubbed the back of his neck. “Ah... I hadn’t really thought that far ahead. I figured I could stay until the weekend. Maybe hang out a bit? And... if it’s okay, maybe I could crash at your apartment for a few days?”
Riko’s eyes widened slightly. She definitely didn’t feel right about that, but she also didn’t want to seem rude, especially since he was a family friend. She stammered, “U-Uh, I—”
Before she could answer, Natsumi quickly jumped in with her usual cheerful tone. “Oh! Riko, remember? We talked about me sleeping over tonight, right? Since my relatives are staying at my place and taking up my room?”
Riko blinked, confused for a second, then realized what Natsumi was doing and played along. “Oh! Right! Thank you for reminding me.”
She turned back to Shun. “Sorry, Shun. Natsumi’s staying with me for a while, and my apartment’s pretty small. It’d be hard to fit more than two people.”
Shun looked clearly irritated but masked it with a tight smile. “Ah, I see... hotel it is, then.”
“Thanks for understanding,” Riko said politely.
“Yeah... but we can still hang out, right? Just the two of us?” he asked, trying again.
Riko smiled politely again. “Sure, we can do that.”
But then Natsumi chimed in, “Oh, but Riko, don’t you have your part-time job right after school today?”
“Oh, right,” Riko said with a slight frown, realizing that too.
“And you finish pretty late, don’t you? So by the time you’re done, it’s basically straight to bed since you’ve got school again in the morning,” Natsumi added with a playful but pointed tone.
Shun clenched his jaw a bit but kept smiling. “Well... maybe we can hang out this weekend then? No one will disturb us then, right? Maybe I’ll drop by your café and watch you work.”
“That’s a good idea,” Riko said politely. “You can definitely visit.”
Natsumi lit up. “Oh, I’ll join you too, Shun! Since I’m staying at her place for now, I’ll wait at the café with you. We can chat more while we wait for her shift to end.”
Shun’s eye twitched, clearly irritated now, but he managed a strained smile. “Yeah... great idea.”
“Anyway,” he said quickly, “why don’t we head to your part-time now? I’d like to see where it is.” He moved toward Riko, clearly trying to walk beside her.
But Natsumi looped her arm around Riko’s and said brightly, “Yup! Let’s go!” She animatedly walked beside Riko, pulling her gently along.
Riko laughed quietly at her friend’s not-so-subtle move. Shun, now slightly behind them, grumbled under his breath but followed after them anyway.
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
Author's Note:
I just realized, it’s officially been a year since I started this series! Can you believe it? A whole year already. I honestly couldn’t have made it this far without all of you. I’m so happy and grateful to everyone who’s been reading, whether you quietly follow along or always leave a comment.
A special thanks to mitaharukai and AyanoAileen, you two have been amazing, and without your support, I probably wouldn’t have kept going or thought about continuing this story for so long. Please don’t ever get tired of me, hehe.
To everyone, truly, thank you from the bottom of my heart. I hope you’re still enjoying this series as much as I enjoy writing it. Here’s to another year together! Now, let’s jump into the chapter.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It was another weekend, and once again, Yoshiko couldn't visit due to her increasingly packed schedule. Riko, who had just finished her short Saturday class and her part-time shift the day before, found herself with a free afternoon. Rather than spending it alone, she decided to do something she’d been meaning to for a while, visit Yoshiko’s mom.
Now standing in front of the Tsushima household, Riko rang the doorbell. After a brief moment, the door opened, revealing Yoshiko’s mom, who blinked in surprise before her face lit up with joy.
“Oh, Riko! What a surprise! What are you doing here?” she beamed, immediately pulling her in for a hug.
Riko smiled warmly as she hugged back. “Hi, Mom. I just wanted to visit. I didn’t get to come by last time Yocchan was here.”
Yoshiko’s mom waved a hand dismissively but affectionately. “Oh, don’t worry about that. I know how busy a student can get, especially one from Geidai. But that’s very sweet of you, thank you.” She stepped aside, gesturing inside. “Come in, come in!”
Riko stepped in, slipping off her shoes and following her into the house.
“Have you eaten yet, dear?” Yoshiko’s mom asked as she walked toward the kitchen. “Because if not, you’re in luck. I just finished cooking. You came at the perfect time!”
Riko smiled and nodded. “I haven’t, actually.”
“Wonderful! Come, let’s eat and chat at the table,” she said cheerfully.
They headed into the dining area, and as Yoshiko’s mom began to set out dishes, Riko moved to help her.
“Let me help you with the prep,” Riko offered.
Yoshiko’s mom smiled at her. “Thank you, Riko. Always so helpful and sweet.”
Riko giggled softly as they moved together with ease, setting the food and utensils on the table like they’d done this a dozen times before.
Once they sat down and began eating, Yoshiko’s mom gave her a teasing look and said, “So, did you come all this way because my daughter didn’t get to visit you today?”
Riko blinked and waved her hands slightly. “What? Oh—no! I really just wanted to visit you. I promised I would last time.”
Her words earned a warm laugh. “I know, dear. I was just teasing.”
They shared a laugh before Yoshiko’s mom leaned in a bit, resting her elbow on the table. “So, how’s school? They treating you right over there? Because if not, I am a teacher, and I have my connections. I’ll make sure anyone giving you trouble regrets it.”
Riko giggled, a spark of amusement dancing in her eyes. She’s kind of like Yocchan, she thought fondly.
“No, everything’s fine,” Riko said. “Everyone’s nice. Some classes are tough and some professors are strict, but it’s all part of the learning process. I can handle it.”
Yoshiko’s mom looked at her with pride. “Such a hardworking girl. My baby is really lucky to have you.”
Riko smiled, cheeks turning a little pink. “And I’m lucky to have her, too. Honestly… without her, I don’t think I’d be handling things this well. She gives me courage and energy to do my best.”
The older woman’s eyes softened, and she gave Riko a tender look. “That’s really sweet, dear. I didn’t think my daughter would become someone who could inspire someone like that. She used to be such a handful, as I’ve mentioned before. But hearing you talk about her like this… it makes me so happy. I know you’ve changed her life too.”
Riko looked down bashfully but smiled, heart warm from the praise.
They continued chatting over their meal, sharing light stories about school and everyday life. After lunch, Riko insisted on washing the dishes, and after some half-hearted resistance, Yoshiko’s mom finally relented.
“Such a hardworking girl,” she said with a fond chuckle as Riko dried her hands.
Then, as they returned to the living room, Yoshiko’s mom perked up. “Oh, dear, do you have any plans later today?”
Riko shook her head. “No, not really. I was planning to just spend some time here, since I’m already here.”
“Perfect!” Yoshiko’s mom clapped her hands. “Why don’t you come with me later?”
Riko tilted her head. “Where to?”
“I’m meeting up with some friends—well, coworkers. We’re having dinner out tonight. I want you to come with me.”
Riko blinked, surprised but curious. “You want me to meet your coworkers?”
Yoshiko’s mom grinned. “Of course! I want to show you off. They’re always bragging about their kids and their kids’ partners, and I never had anything to say before. But now I have you, and you’re such a talented, kind girl. I’ll finally have my moment to shine.”
Riko chuckled, a bit bashful. “I’m not sure I’m worth all that boasting…”
“Oh, don’t worry dear,” she said proudly. “I know for sure you are.”
They shared a smile, Riko feeling not only welcomed, but genuinely loved.
After agreeing to join Yoshiko’s mom for dinner with her coworkers, Riko settled more comfortably into the cozy living room. Yoshiko’s mom disappeared into the kitchen for a moment and returned carrying a tray with two cups of freshly brewed tea and a small plate of homemade cookies.
“Here, dear. A little treat before we head out later,” she said warmly, setting the tray on the coffee table.
Riko’s eyes lit up. “They smell amazing!” she said, reaching for a cookie.
“They’re an old recipe. Yoshiko used to devour these when she was little,” Yoshiko’s mom chuckled, taking a seat next to Riko.
As they sipped their tea and nibbled the cookies, Yoshiko’s mom pulled out a small photo album from a nearby shelf. “I was actually organizing some old albums this morning. Want to see some pictures of little Yoshiko?” she asked, a mischievous sparkle in her eye.
Riko’s face brightened immediately. “Can I?!”
“Of course. Come, sit closer.”
Riko scooted over, sitting closely beside her on the couch as Yoshiko’s mom opened the album.
The first photo was of a tiny, scowling Yoshiko sitting on a beach, wrapped up in a ridiculously oversized hoodie and glaring at the camera.
“She hated the beach when she was young,” her mom explained, laughing. “Always complained the sun was too bright for her 'fallen angel' powers.”
Riko giggled, covering her mouth. “That’s so adorable...!”
They flipped through more pages, photos of Yoshiko in various chūnibyō poses, dramatic hand gestures, and serious expressions. There were also sweet photos: Yoshiko hugging a puppy at a shelter, Yoshiko sleeping with her head on the dinner table, little Yoshiko helping her mom cook.
“She’s always been a handful,” her mom said fondly, “but she’s got the kindest heart once you get past the tough act.”
Riko looked down at a photo of a teenage Yoshiko, still a bit awkward but flashing a rare, natural smile at the camera. Her heart felt full. “She really is special...” she murmured softly.
Yoshiko’s mom noticed the look on Riko’s face and smiled warmly. “You love her a lot, don’t you?”
Riko blushed, but she nodded shyly. “I do. Very much.”
“I’m glad,” Yoshiko’s mom said gently. “And I'm happy knowing she has someone like you with her. Thank you for loving my daughter, Riko.”
Riko felt her eyes sting slightly, overwhelmed by the kindness. She squeezed her hands together on her lap and smiled. “Thank you... for raising such a wonderful person like her.”
They sat there for a moment, sharing a comfortable silence as the afternoon sunlight filled the room.
Eventually, Yoshiko’s mom glanced at the clock and clapped her hands lightly. “Oh! It’s about time we get ready. Let’s not keep those old hens waiting,” she said jokingly.
Riko laughed, standing up as well. “Do I look okay?” she asked, smoothing her casual skirt and blouse.
Yoshiko’s mom gave her a quick once-over and smiled approvingly. “You look beautiful, dear. They’re going to adore you.”
Riko blushed under the praise but nodded determinedly. “I’ll do my best.”
“Come on, then,” Yoshiko’s mom said, grabbing her handbag. “Let’s go make me the proudest mother to my coworkers.”
Riko giggled and followed after her, feeling a little nervous but mostly excited, happy to be by Yoshiko’s family's side like this.
------------------
The evening breeze was cool as Riko and Yoshiko’s mom arrived at the small, cozy restaurant tucked near the heart of Numazu. Inside, a few tables were already occupied, but in the corner by the window, four lively women were gathered around a big table, laughing and chatting animatedly.
The moment they spotted Yoshiko’s mom, they waved enthusiastically.
"Over here!" one of them called, beckoning.
Riko followed closely as Yoshiko’s mom led her to the table.
As they approached, the women leaned forward, their curiosity practically sparkling. "And who’s this beautiful young lady you brought with you?" asked a woman with short hair and kind eyes.
Yoshiko’s mom beamed with pride, placing a gentle hand on Riko’s shoulder. "Everyone, this is Riko Sakurauchi. My daughter’s girlfriend."
The table collectively gasped in delight.
"Ohhh! So this is the famous one you were talking about!" said another, a woman with glasses and a bright smile.
"You finally brought someone! And she’s absolutely lovely!" another chimed in.
Riko bowed politely, her cheeks already burning. "Nice to meet you. I’m Riko. Thank you for letting me join you tonight."
The ladies swooned immediately over her polite tone and gentle demeanor.
"Such good manners! She’s adorable!" one said, clutching her heart.
Yoshiko’s mom, looking immensely proud, couldn't hold back anymore. "And that’s not even the half of it," she said, grinning. "Riko here is not only beautiful, she’s incredibly talented too. She’s a music major at Geidai."
At the word 'Geidai,' the women gasped again, exchanging impressed looks.
"Geidai?!" the woman with the glasses repeated, stunned. "That’s amazing! That school’s no joke!"
"That’s practically a national treasure for the arts!" said another.
Yoshiko’s mom smiled even wider, like she’d just been crowned Queen. "Exactly. She plays the piano like an angel. I’ve heard from my daughter that her performances are truly breathtaking, and every note is so full of emotion." She looked at Riko with motherly affection. "Not only that, she’s kind, hardworking, and polite. And even with her busy schedule, she still makes time to visit me."
The other women looked like they were ready to adopt Riko themselves.
"She’s like a dream daughter-in-law!" one said.
"I’m so jealous! My son’s girlfriend can’t even remember my birthday," another joked, making the table burst into laughter.
"And she’s so cute too! Look how she’s blushing!" another teased warmly.
Riko, beet red now, lowered her head slightly, giggling shyly. "T-Thank you so much..."
Yoshiko’s mom gave her an encouraging pat on the back. "And let’s not forget, she’s the one who managed to tame my wild child, Yoshiko." She laughed teasingly. "Anyone who can handle my daughter, deserves a medal."
More laughter erupted at the table.
Throughout the meal, Riko found herself gently pulled into the conversation, answering questions about school, how she met Yoshiko, and what it was like dating someone like her. And although she was shy, the kindness of Yoshiko’s mom and her friends made her feel warmly welcomed.
As the night went on, Yoshiko’s mom watched Riko interact with her coworkers, her heart swelling with pride.
Tonight wasn’t just about showing off, it was about letting the world know that her daughter had someone wonderful in her life, someone who loved her and was loved in return. And for Yoshiko’s mom, there was no greater joy.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Author's Note:
And that’s it for this week’s chapter! Thank you again to everyone for sticking with me through this whole year. Your support means so much, I’ll keep doing my best as we head into another year of this story. See you next week for the next update!
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the Organization for Transformative Works
It had been another month.
Though Yoshiko sometimes managed to visit Riko on weekends, they were short visits, rushed, fleeting, inconsistent. The ache of distance lingered in their days apart, but Riko always held onto the moments they did get.
After a full day of university classes, Music Theory, History, and practice, Riko made her way straight to her part-time job at the café. She arrived with the usual weariness but still greeted her coworkers and manager with a polite smile. After slipping into the back to change into her uniform, she emerged ready for her shift and took her place behind the counter.
A few hours later—
Riko had just stepped away from the register, focused on making a fresh cup of coffee, her back turned to the entrance. The familiar chime of the doorbell rang out.
She didn’t think much of it, until she turned around, cup in hand, and began to greet the new customer.
“What will you be hav—”
She froze.
Standing at the counter was none other than her girlfriend, Tsushima Yoshiko.
Still dressed in what looked like the remains of her teaching uniform, black slacks, a crisp white dress shirt peeking out from underneath a loose, black hoodie. The collar and tie showed slightly at the neck, and the ends of the dress shirt peeked out beneath the hoodie’s hem. It was clear she’d just swapped her lab coat for the hoodie and come straight here.
“Y-Yocchan?!” Riko said, eyes wide.
Yoshiko leaned casually against the counter, that trademark smirk on her lips. “How about a cup of coffee… and one adorable barista to go with it?” she said, voice low and flirtatious, ending with a wink.
Riko flushed immediately, her mouth opening in a flustered stammer. “Y-Yocchan, what are you—”
Before she could finish, a firm voice cut through the moment.
“Excuse me,” came a sharp tone.
Riko blinked as Misato, her manager, stepped out from behind a nearby shelf, having just finished restocking beans. Her arms were crossed tightly over her chest as she eyed Yoshiko with clear suspicion.
“Is there a problem here?” she asked, her tone serious.
Yoshiko, caught off guard, blinked. “Uh, no, no problem! I was just—”
“It sounded like you were bothering my employee,” Misato cut in, stepping protectively in front of Riko. “Riko, are you okay? You don’t have to tolerate this kind of behavior.”
Riko’s eyes widened in panic. “Oh, no! It’s not like—”
Misato raised a hand gently, stopping her. “Don’t worry. I’ve got this.”
She turned her full attention back to Yoshiko, voice calm but firm. “I don’t know what you think you’re doing, but if you’re here to harass my staff—”
“Harass?” Yoshiko stammered, hands up in surrender. “I-I’m not harassing anyone! I swear, I—”
“You can leave right now, or I’ll call security,” Misato said flatly.
“I—I just— I’m here to—”
“She’s my lover!”
Riko’s voice cut through the café like a clear note in a silent room.
The whole café fell quiet for a moment.
Then one of the coworkers behind the bar let out a small squeal and said, “How bold!”
Another chimed in teasingly, “You go, Riko!”
Riko’s face was a deep red as she stood frozen, but she didn’t look away from Misato.
Misato froze, her eyes darting between Riko and Yoshiko. “…Your lover?” she repeated, visibly stunned.
“Yes!” Riko squeaked, her face still bright red.
She stepped around the counter quickly, standing beside Yoshiko and grabbing her arm in a flustered attempt to explain, which made Yoshiko bend down a little with the tug. Still holding onto her, Riko added, “This is Yoshiko. She’s not a stranger—she’s my girlfriend. She just… likes making terrible pickup lines.”
“Hey!” Yoshiko protested, cheeks pink now too.
Misato blinked again, trying to reboot her thoughts. “Oh. Oh.” Her shoulders relaxed, and her strict demeanor softened with an embarrassed laugh. “I… see. My apologies, then.”
Riko gave a sheepish laugh of her own. “It’s okay, really. She’s harmless. Mostly.”
Yoshiko turned toward her with a mock pout. “Mostly? I’ll have you know I’m completely harmless!”
Misato chuckled. “Sorry about that. I’m just a little overprotective, especially with Riko. She’s new here and probably the sweetest person I’ve ever hired. I didn’t want some sketchy weirdo trying to flirt with her…” She scratched her head. “Guess I got a little carried away.”
“It’s fine,” Yoshiko said, relaxing at last. Her voice still had a trace of awkwardness as she added, “Thanks for looking out for Riko.” She even gave a polite little bow.
Misato blinked in surprise, then smirked. “Well-mannered, huh?” she teased. “Since you did order an ‘adorable barista to go’… how about it, Riko? Why don’t you leave early?”
Riko’s eyes widened. “But I still have an hour left—”
Misato waved her off. “Your girlfriend came all the way here to see you. Don’t be rude. Go spend time with her. I’ll cover for you.”
Riko glanced between Yoshiko and her manager, still unsure. “Are you sure? I don’t want to leave you shorthanded…”
“I insist.” Misato grinned. “You’ve been working hard all week. Besides, your girlfriend nearly got herself kicked out just for showing up in style. Go on, go enjoy your date. Just promise me you’ll introduce her properly next time, alright?”
Riko laughed softly and nodded, still flushed as she untied her apron and grabbed her bag. “Thank you,” she said genuinely.
Yoshiko stood a little straighter and offered another polite bow. “Thanks for letting me steal her.”
“Don’t make me regret it,” Misato quipped with a playful smirk, turning away to let them go.
------------------
Outside, as they walked to Yoshiko’s motorbike, Yoshiko leaned in close with a grin. “So… I guess I owe your manager a proper introduction next time, huh?”
Riko glanced up at her and giggled. “You probably should. She almost kicked you out.”
Yoshiko chuckled as she unstrapped the pink helmet from the rear seat. “Hey, I can’t help it if I was mistaken for a charming stranger.”
“More like a suspicious stranger,” Riko teased.
“Rude,” Yoshiko muttered playfully. She gently placed the helmet on Riko’s head and secured it before putting on her own. “Well, charming or suspicious, I’m here now.”
She climbed onto the motorbike and held out her hand toward Riko with a grin. “So what do you say we find somewhere fun to celebrate our little reunion?”
Riko accepted her hand and carefully climbed on the back, settling in behind Yoshiko and hugging her waist tightly.
She smiled against her shoulder. “Anywhere is fine… as long as it’s with you.”
Yoshiko's grin widened under her helmet. “How about we buy some take-out and go back to your apartment?”
“That sounds perfect,” Riko said, her arms tightening just a little.
With the soft roar of the engine, they pulled off into the evening streets, off to steal a few more quiet moments together.
------------------
Now back at Riko's apartment. Yoshiko and Riko stepped inside, Yoshiko holding the take-out bags as Riko unlocked and opened the door for her.
“Pardon the intrusion,” Yoshiko said as she slipped off her shoes and walked inside, placing the food on the small dining table.
Riko followed close behind, already reaching to help her unpack. But Yoshiko gently intercepted her hands.
“Let me, Riri. You’ve been working all day at school and your job, just relax. I got this.” She gave her a confident wink.
Riko smiled warmly and leaned in to press a kiss to her cheek. “Thank you, Yocchan.”
Yoshiko nodded toward the bathroom. “Now go change first. By the time you’re done, food will be ready.”
“Okay, Yocchan,” Riko said with a soft giggle. She opened her closet, grabbed some fresh clothes, and headed for a quick shower.
A short while later, the two of them sat at the table, enjoying dinner together.
Between bites, Riko tilted her head slightly. “So, Yocchan… why the sudden visit?”
Yoshiko gave a playful grin. “I just missed you.”
Riko narrowed her eyes, suspicious but smiling. “Did you do something wrong? Is that why you're here?”
“What? No!” Yoshiko pouted. “Is it a crime to visit my girlfriend just because I want to?”
Riko giggled. “No, it’s not. And I’m glad you’re here.” Her smile softened. “But don’t we see each other every weekend?”
“We didn’t last weekend,” Yoshiko said, voice a bit pouty. “So I figured I’d squeeze in a quick visit now.”
“Well, thank you, Yocchan. I appreciate it.” Riko took another bite and asked, “Did you come straight from work?”
“Yeah,” Yoshiko replied.
“How’d you know?” she added with a small head tilt, resembling a curious puppy.
Riko pointed at her. “I can see your uniform peeking out from under your hoodie.”
Yoshiko looked down and laughed. “Oh, right. I didn’t have time to change. Just tossed on my hoodie over it. My lab coat’s still in my bag.”
Riko smiled. “Well, you still look cool even like that.”
Yoshiko blinked. “Really?”
Riko nodded. “And you must be tired, right? Driving all the way here…”
Yoshiko shook her head, brushing it off. “Nah. I was just sitting down for an hour and a half. Not a big deal.”
Riko gave her a soft, worried glance. “Still…”
“Don’t worry about me, Riri,” Yoshiko said. “I’ve been an adult longer than you. I can handle a little tiredness. You’re the one who needs to be looked after. I just want to take care of you sometimes, you know? Just like how you used to take care of me.”
Riko blushed and smiled, eyes tender. “Thank you, Yocchan.”
A little while later, dinner was over. Yoshiko stood at the sink washing the dishes, while Riko lounged on the sofa, watching her with a fond, dreamy expression.
“So,” Riko asked, resting her chin in her hand, “are you heading home tonight?”
“Yeah,” Yoshiko said without turning, “since I’ve got work tomorrow. And you’ve got school too.”
Riko’s smile faded into a soft frown. “Oh…”
Yoshiko chuckled at her tone. “Don’t be sad, Riri. I’ll go home around midnight. We still have plenty of time to hang out.”
“But you’ll get back to Numazu at like… two in the morning,” Riko said, her voice laced with concern. “And you still have to wake up early.”
Yoshiko glanced over her shoulder with a grin. “Don’t worry, Riri. I’ve stayed up later than that before.”
“Yocchan…” Riko murmured, clearly unconvinced.
“Relax,” Yoshiko said again. “Plus, driving that late means no traffic. I’ll probably get home in under an hour.”
Riko exhaled softly. “Well… if you say so.”
------------------
Riko and Yoshiko sat together on the sofa, chatting idly about little things from their day. The warmth of the room, the quiet hum of the city outside, and the way Riko leaned against her made Yoshiko’s heart stir.
“Hey, Riri,” Yoshiko said suddenly, tilting her head with a playful spark in her eyes. “Want a massage?”
Riko blinked, caught off guard. “Eh? Why all of a sudden?”
“Well…” Yoshiko scratched her cheek, a bit awkward. “I was thinking about how to take care of you more. Since you just got back from work, I figured—why not a massage?”
That gentle sincerity made Riko’s lips curl into a smile. “Thank you, Yocchan… I’d love that.”
“Alright then. Turn around,” Yoshiko said, patting her lap with mock seriousness.
Riko chuckled softly but did as told, shifting so her back faced Yoshiko. Warm hands pressed against her shoulders, kneading carefully. A low sigh slipped out of Riko’s lips.
“Mm… I didn’t know you had a hidden talent like this,” she murmured, eyes fluttering shut.
Yoshiko puffed her chest with exaggerated pride. “It’s one of my secret skills,” she said smugly, which made Riko giggle despite the pleasure coursing through her muscles.
Her hands slid lower, to the small of Riko’s back, and Yoshiko felt the tension melt away beneath her touch. Riko exhaled a shaky, breathy sigh—almost a moan—that made Yoshiko’s own pulse quicken. She bit her lip, fighting the warmth pooling in her chest, but forced herself to stay focused.
“...There. All done,” Yoshiko said finally, giving a nervous little laugh to cover up her own rising desire. She wanted more, desperately, but reminded herself that Riko had just come home tired from her part-time.
Riko, however, slowly turned to face her, but when Riko opened her eyes, she didn’t look tired. She looked at Yoshiko with a soft gaze that made Yoshiko’s heart skip. Slowly, Riko reached for Yoshiko’s hand, guiding it forward and pressing it against her shoulder.
“I think I need… a little more massage here,” Riko whispered, her voice sweet but tinged with seduction.
Yoshiko gulped, eyes darting from Riko’s shoulder to the elegant line of her neck. “Y-yeah… sure,” she stammered, her fingers brushing along Riko’s skin.
But then Riko guided Yoshiko's hand lower, toward her chest. Yoshiko hesitated, her hand hovering just above Riko's breast.
“Riri—”
"Can't we, Yocchan?" Riko pleaded, her voice soft and enticing. She moved closer, her body pressing against Yoshiko's.
Yoshiko’s breath caught in her throat. She hesitated, torn between reason and how close Riko was now leaning in.
“Aren’t you tired, Riri?” Yoshiko asked, her voice low, hesitant.
Riko leaned closer, her lips brushing near her cheek. “Not at all,” she whispered. “Actually… I think this will recharge me.”
Then she kissed her, soft and slow. Yoshiko tried to pull back, to resist, but the warmth of Riko’s mouth, the softness of her hands… it was impossible. She gave in with a quiet sigh.
Still, somewhere in the midst of that dizzying closeness, Yoshiko paused long enough to say, “C-can we at least… do it on your bed? I want you to be comfortable.”
Riko nodded, wordless. She took Yoshiko’s hand gently and led her the few steps toward her bed.
From this point onward, explicit sexual content (R-18) will be included. If you're not comfortable with this, feel free to skip ahead or scroll down to the next scene, skipping won’t affect the story. If you're okay with it, enjoy the rest of the story!
As they reached the side of the mattress, she tugged Yoshiko gently and stood on her tiptoes, pressing her lips gently against Yoshiko's.
The kiss deepened instantly, hungry, desperate. Yoshiko’s tongue slipped past Riko’s lips, claiming her, and Riko shivered beneath the heat of it. Their mouths moved together until Riko’s chest rose and fell in ragged breaths.
Eventually, Yoshiko pulled away, her eyes locked onto Riko's. “You should lay down, Riri,” she whispered, voice low and steady. “I don’t want your legs to get tired.”
She guided Riko gently, helping her recline onto the bed. Yoshiko then positioned herself between Riko’s parted legs, kneeling with quiet dominance.
Yoshiko peeled off her black hoodie in one smooth motion, leaving only her white dress shirt and tie. With deliberate slowness, she loosened the tie, tugging it free while her magenta eyes locked on Riko’s.
“Just lay there, princess,” she murmured with a wink, her voice husky, “and let me do all the work.”
Riko’s cheeks flamed as Yoshiko unbuttoned the top of her shirt, pale skin showing between the folds. She could only watch, breath quickening, as Yoshiko rolled up her sleeves with practiced ease.
Riko’s body responding to Yoshiko's dominant display. She could feel the heat building between her legs, her shorts growing damp with anticipation. Her eyes were filled with desire as she watched Yoshiko.
“I think you didn’t get enough massage earlier,” Yoshiko teased, her thumb brushing slow circles over the front of Riko’s shorts. The pressure was feather-light, but the wetness beneath her touch was undeniable. She smirked. “Already this wet, huh?”
Riko turned her face away, covering her cheeks with her hands, but a trembling moan slipped free.
Instead of going lower, Yoshiko slid her hand up beneath Riko’s shirt, palm roaming over soft skin, tracing from her stomach upward until she cupped Riko’s breast through the fabric. She kneaded gently, earning another shaky sigh, then tugged the shirt higher, baring her lover’s skin.
The bra soon followed, straps sliding down her shoulders until her breasts spilled free. Yoshiko’s breath hitched at the sight, soft, round, perfect. She bent low, massaging one while teasing the nipple of the other, flicking, pinching, then drawing it into her mouth with a hot, wet pull.
“Ah—Yocchan…” Riko’s back arched, her fingers gripping the sheets. Every suck sent heat spiraling lower until her body trembled. A sudden shiver wracked her, her thighs clenching as pleasure spilled over.
Yoshiko paused, pulling back to glance up at her. “...Did you just—?”
Riko’s cheeks glowed crimson as she nodded shyly. “A little…”
Yoshiko smirked, lips glistening. “Then why don’t I massage your favorite spot… with my tongue?”
She tugged Riko’s shorts down in one swift motion, discarding them carelessly, underwear following right after. The sight before her made Yoshiko groan softly.
“You’re soaking,” she whispered, lowering her head. She trailed kisses down Riko’s body, her stomach, the curve of her hips, the trembling inner thigh, until her mouth hovered just above glistening folds.
“Let me taste you.”
Her tongue pressed in, lapping at the wetness that spilled freely.
“Ah! Y-Yocchan, don’t… d-drink that—ahh!” Riko gasped, toes curling as Yoshiko sucked hard, swallowing down every drop with a satisfied hum.
“Mmh… refreshing,” Yoshiko teased as she pulled back briefly, lips wet.
“Y-you dork…” Riko whimpered, hiding her face.
But Yoshiko didn’t let her breathe. She dove back in, tongue plunging deep, thrusting in and out while her lips sealed over Riko’s heat. Riko’s moans spilled freely now, her hips lifting and rolling helplessly against Yoshiko’s mouth.
“Y-Yocchan, it’s too much—ahh!” she cried, clutching the sheets as wave after wave rolled through her. Her back arched high as she climaxed, body trembling, thighs squeezing tight around Yoshiko’s head.
Yoshiko eased her through it, licking softly until the spasms slowed. Then she moved up, capturing Riko’s mouth in another deep kiss, letting her taste herself on Yoshiko’s lips.
Without breaking the kiss, Yoshiko slipped two fingers inside her. Riko gasped into her mouth, eyes flying open as Yoshiko pumped deep and fast, curling just right until she found that sweet spot.
“Ah—ahh! Yocchan!” Riko clung to her, fingers clawing at Yoshiko’s shirt as her body writhed under the relentless rhythm.
“Such a good girl,” Yoshiko whispered against her neck, her voice rough as she thrust harder, deeper.
Yoshiko’s fingers moved steadily inside her, curling deep, each thrust hitting that tender place that made Riko’s voice rise. Her body writhed beneath the rhythm, breath coming in broken gasps.
“More… Yocchan, more…” Riko pleaded, her golden eyes hazy with need as she clung desperately to Yoshiko’s shirt.
Hearing that, Yoshiko groaned low, pressing her lips to Riko’s ear. “Anything for you, princess.” She pushed deeper, fingers pumping harder, faster, her palm grinding against Riko’s swollen heat.
Riko’s quiet moans slipped out in soft, breathy sounds, almost stifled as if she couldn’t bring herself to let go fully. Each restrained whimper only made Yoshiko want her more.
She kissed her fiercely, swallowing those delicate sounds, holding her as she trembled under the intensity.
The pace built, faster and deeper, until the faint, muffled gasps and the wet rhythm blurred into pure, overwhelming pleasure.
Yoshiko pressed closer, savoring the way Riko’s body shuddered against hers—
The explicit scene has concluded. From here onward, the story returns to its regular content. Feel free to continue reading, there are no further explicit elements ahead. Enjoy the rest of the chapter!
Riko lay breathless on the bed, chest rising and falling as she tried to catch her breath. Yoshiko hovered over her, fingers still buried deep inside her until, with a slow, deliberate motion, she pulled them out. The sudden emptiness made Riko shiver, a soft tremor running through her body.
Yoshiko hovered over her for a moment longer, then leaned down to press a soft kiss against her damp forehead.
“Wait here, Riri,” she whispered before slipping off the bed.
Riko watched her go, still dazed. Yoshiko disappeared into the bathroom, washed her hands, grabbed tissues and a cold bottle of water from the fridge, and soon returned. She sat at Riko’s side, carefully cleaning her so she wouldn’t feel sticky, her touch as gentle as her expression. Then she coaxed Riko up into a sitting position and pressed the water bottle into her hands.
“Drink, Riri. You need to stay hydrated.”
Riko obeyed, sipping slowly before giving Yoshiko a tender smile. “Thank you, Yocchan…”
Yoshiko smiled back, though a hint of hesitation lingered in her eyes. As she buttoned her shirt back up and rolled her sleeves down, she let out a quiet breath. “This feels weird saying it but… I need to go home now.”
Riko’s smile faded slightly. “Already…?”
“Yeah…” Yoshiko replied with a sigh, slipping her tie back on. “I think we went at it for like, a couple of hours, and its already almost midnight. I have to head back before it gets too late… And you have school tomorrow and I’ve got work too.”
Riko hugged her knees on the bed, nodding quietly. “Okay…”
Yoshiko pulled on her black hoodie, glancing at her with a sigh. “Don’t look at me like that, Riri. You’re making this harder. Honestly, it feels strange for me to leave you after… that.” She gave a little laugh, reaching over to help Riko into her shirt so she wouldn’t catch a chill.
Riko followed her to the entrance, still only wearing an oversized t-shirt. She giggled softly as Yoshiko bent to slip on her shoes. “This almost feels like a one-night stand, don’t you think?”
Yoshiko froze, straightened up, and gave her a scandalized look. “Don’t call it that, Riri. It sounds so wrong. I mean, your manager already thought I was some weirdo trying to pick you up.”
Riko laughed. “True… but hey, you did kinda succeed, cheesy pickup line and all.”
Yoshiko stands up and playfully clutched her chest. “Ouch. That line was gold!”
Riko giggled at her dorky girlfriend. “Okay, okay. Forget I said one-night stand. Actually…” She stepped closer, wrapping her arms around Yoshiko’s neck. Her voice softened. “I hope it’s an everyday thing.” She kissed her sweetly.
When they parted, Yoshiko raised an eyebrow, smirking. “So… me wearing my work uniform turns you on, huh?”
Riko flushed. “...A little bit, yeah.”
“Only a little bit?” Yoshiko leaned in with a teasing grin. “Because I could’ve sworn you were clinging to my finge—”
Riko immediately slapped her hand over Yoshiko’s mouth, her cheeks glowing. “Yocchan, stop! Just… kiss me.”
Yoshiko laughed into the kiss, giving her what she asked for. Before pulling away, holding out her arms in mock surrender. “Stop, my little demon. If you keep this up, I might never get home.”
“Oh?” Riko giggled, stepping closer. “So, getting all worked up again, hmm?”
Yoshiko dramatically looked away, still holding her hands up. “Very much so, yes.”
Laughing, Riko gently took her hands and lowered them. “Okay. Then… can I at least get a goodbye hug?”
“That,” Yoshiko said warmly, “I can do.” She wrapped her up in a tight hug, lifting her off her feet for a second and earning a surprised laugh. Setting her back down, she opened the door, lingering one last moment.
“Bye, Riri. Love you.”
Riko’s eyes softened. She waved gently, her smile glowing. “Bye, Yocchan. I love you too.” With that, Yoshiko slipped out, heading to the elevator. Downstairs, she straddled her motorbike, fastened her helmet, then glanced up at Riko’s apartment one last time. A sigh left her lips, equal parts longing and affection, before she started the engine and rode off into the quiet Tokyo night, bound for Numazu.
Love Live! Sunshine!! - Chapter 2 [English Translation]
As promised, day one translation. Kinda disappointed that despite the one month wait for a new chapter it was only fifteen pages, but at least it was Riko’s introduction chapter! Hope you have fun reading this!
Also, I’d appreciate if you link to this Tumblr post rather than the Imgur link if you want to share, thanks!
Full chapter is here: http://imgur.com/a/wAN0R
Download is here: https://mega.nz/#!ycNHBBLD!-iS0GpajVUEOG9j-dz9BMB1gJfIXFZ9ay4BAqtkH4oU
