Whatever You Desire

"What kind of chocolate would you like for Valentine's Day this year?"

It was early February. Since Amane was off work today, he was spending time with Mahiru slowly, taking the lead in preparing dinner to give her a chance to relax. With everything ready, all that remained was waiting for the rice to finish cooking when she suddenly threw that question at him.

Amane blinked in surprise.

Of course, Amane understood that with February came Valentine's Day, but he hadn't expected Mahiru to ask that question.

"You're asking me directly this time, huh?"

Last year, before they started dating, Mahiru had enlisted Chitose's help to subtly research what kind of chocolate Amane liked. But this year, now that they were a couple, she asked him directly without hesitating.

As Amane had expected her to be more discreet, he was caught off guard by how boldly she brought it up. He felt unexpectedly nervous despite being the one receiving the chocolates.

Seeing Amane react so strangely, Mahiru giggled slightly as she checked the time remaining on the rice cooker.

"We're dating now, so there's no point in sneaking around. Given what month it is, I'm sure you will quickly realize that I'm preparing for Valentine's Day. It would be unfair to make you pretend not to notice."

"With all the buzz around this time, I guess I would, yeah. You're always so proper about these things, Mahiru."

It wasn't hard to imagine just how much care she would also put into Valentine's Day, especially given how much effort Mahiru had exerted for his birthday. Even someone as dense as Amane would immediately figure out that it was for Valentine's if she started doing things in secret around this time. He wasn't too surprised that Mahiru decided to skip the whole surprise and give him precisely what he wanted from the start, though he still thought it was a bold move.

"Even if I tried to hide it, you would quickly connect the dots. So, given the occasion, I thought it would only be appropriate to make chocolates you actually want to eat," Mahiru explained.

"I get where you're coming from, but…don't you already know what I like?"

Last year, through Chitose, Mahiru had learned that Amane preferred things that weren't too sweet, and by now, after all the time they'd spent together, she had a good grasp of his likes and dislikes.

Making something I'd like should be a piece of cake for her…or so Amane thought. For some reason, Mahiru looked a tiny bit upset.

"I do know that you aren't fond of things being too sweet, but making the same orangettes or chocolate cake as before wouldn't be very creative. Besides, you might be craving something you don't usually prefer, so that's why I'm asking what you would like."

"To be honest, I'd be happy with anything you make for me."

That might have been a lazy answer, but it was true. Amane didn't have any specific requests. After spending over a year with Mahiru, he'd come to realize that every dish she whipped up was an absolute delight. She had this uncanny ability to pull off any recipe flawlessly and effortlessly produced dish after dish that amazed Amane's taste buds. At this point, it felt like there was nothing she couldn't make. Part of the excitement came from the anticipation of discovering what she'd create without knowing in advance.

That's why Amane would be happy with anything. However, he also knew that, depending on the situation, a vague response such as his could frustrate the cook, so he wasn't exactly confident in his answer either.

As for Mahiru, rather than being angry, she was in disbelief.

"…I know that when you say you would be 'happy with anything,' you truly mean it, and would be happy no matter what I make, but an answer like that makes things harder for me. Please be mindful of that," Mahiru said, her tone gentle but exasperated.

"Sorry. I meant that I want you to make something you want to make. I love everything you prepare, so I always look forward to seeing what you come up with next… If there's something you've been meaning to try, I'd prefer you make that."

To Amane, Valentine's Day was more about Mahiru having fun while baking. He saw it as an opportunity to receive the feelings she put into anything she made gratefully, and he didn't think too much about the specific type of treat. Since he already knew her cooking would be delicious no matter what, happiness awaited him regardless of what she chose. That's why he wanted her to prioritize what she wanted to try rather than worry about what he wanted.

He replied cautiously, not wanting to get scolded again. Even so, Mahiru sighed as if she had anticipated even his attempt to soften the blow.

"Amane-kun, you're oddly selfless about these things, and that can be a bit of an issue sometimes…geez. Seriously, you shouldn't just throw the 'anything' line and leave the decision up to the girl, okay?"

"Not like I do that with anyone else… Besides, I wouldn't have the chance to ask other girls to make any decisions for me."

"I know," Mahiru responded confidently. "Yeah, I figured you would."

This was obvious to them both, so their conversation flowed back and forth smoothly, like a lighthearted game of catch played with warm smiles.

"…Are you sure you don't have any requests?" Mahiru pressed. "Do I look like I know my way around sweets?"

"You know more than you let on, no? You always get a good look at the cakes and baked goods whenever we go to a bakery."

"I'm just looking."

Thanks to his parents, Amane was exposed to a large variety of food growing up, and they taught him quite a lot along the way. He could more or less figure out how a dish was made just by looking at it.

When it came to sweets, however, it was a different story. During their café dates or casual trips to buy cakes, Amane often found himself eyeing the treats on display. He recognized their names and remembered them, but that didn't necessarily mean he had a particular craving for any of them.

"Also, I prioritize what you'd enjoy over what I like," Amane admitted.

"Please think about your preferences a little more, Amane-kun. In this case, my preferences shouldn't matter at all."

"They do matter. When I buy a cake for us, I want to pick something that suits you best."

"Geez…"

Mahiru pursed her lips in mild frustration as if to say, "Why is that what you always focus on?" Amane responded casually, "Probably 'cause I like you."

In return, Mahiru hit him with a "Geez!" even louder and fiercer than before. Her tone may be sharp, but Amane knew it wasn't out of anger—instead, it was just her way of masking her bashfulness. He laughed lightly to brush it off, which only earned him a sigh from Mahiru in response.

"…So, do you really not have any requests? If not, I could always ask Chitose-san for her secret recipe."

"Please don't…" Amane quickly replied in an almost pleading tone. He couldn't hide his shock as Mahiru readily unsheathed her ultimate weapon.

Unable to suppress his instinctive reaction, he rejected the idea in a tone that practically asked, "Who on earth are you?" Yet, despite his protest, Mahiru's bright smile didn't waver even slightly.

Even though he knew Mahiru would get back at him if he teased her too much, Amane couldn't help but let those words loose. Despite her many reactions, Mahiru always looked happy when he showed affection. This time, though, he had pushed his luck and was now eating his just deserts.

Amane shuddered as he recalled the terrifying power of the Russian roulette chocolates Chitose specially crafted last year. Just as his anxiety peaked, Mahiru heaved a breath and broke into a cheerful, entertained smile.

"Hehe, I'm just kidding. I know that you aren't fond of anything too spicy," she teased.

"Yeah, you know I can't handle spicy stuff as well as you can."

"That's why I always keep it on the milder side when I cook for you. But, you see, if I borrow Chitose-san's recipe, it would only be right to follow each step to the letter."

"I'm sorry," Amane quickly apologized.

"I wasn't actually going to do it, you know? But if you keep saying you would be 'happy with anything,' I won't be sure what to make… I would at least like a rough idea, such as a theme or a set of ingredients."

"…Then, how about something mildly sweet that keeps well for a few days? It'd be a shame to finish it all in one day. Though, I'll admit, asking for something that lasts longer with less sugar is a bit of a strange ask."

Of course, it was common knowledge that sweets' ability to last longer without preservatives largely depended on the moisture retention of the sugar they were made with. Reducing the amount of sugar would result in a shorter shelf life.

Preservatives would be the most straightforward workaround if he wanted something less sweet that would still last. However, using preservatives in a homemade gift for Valentine's Day wasn't something people typically did, and Mahiru certainly wouldn't try it either. Amane wasn't even sure if you could just go out and buy them for personal use.

Realizing how troublesome his request was, Amane almost took it back. But before he could, Mahiru nodded more quickly than expected and said, "Okay," without hesitation.

"If that's the case, making regular chocolates instead of a cake is better. If I minimize the moisture as much as possible, they should last a bit longer, and you can enjoy a variety of flavors that way."

"I'll leave the specifics to you. As I said, I'm excited for anything, so I'd be happy if you make something you'd like to create too." Amane wasn't sure whether he should feel relieved that Mahiru had a clear idea of what she wanted to make or feel guilty for getting her so fired up about it.

As it looked like she had already decided what she would prepare, he gently reminded her, "Just take it easy, okay?"

In response, Mahiru only blinked at him, looking slightly puzzled. "I'm ready to make anything you'll enjoy, Amane-kun."

"The way you actually would make 'anything' is a little scary, Mahiru." "Well, I don't joke around when it comes to things like this."

"I'm always satisfied with your food, all right? Just saying."

"Well then, I'll sneak in a few new recipes I've learned into our meals when the chance arises."

"You're a bundle of ambition, all right…"

Thanks to Koyuki's loving guidance, Mahiru already had an impressive array of dishes under her belt. Yet, with her boundless learning ability and relentless drive to improve, she still found ways to master new recipes. As the beneficiary of her culinary skills, Amane was both grateful and a little concerned.

He was already more than satisfied with what she prepared—so what more did she plan to do by further tightening her grip on his stomach?

"Please look forward to it," Mahiru urged. "Both my chocolates and the new dishes."

"I definitely will, but seriously, just take it easy."

"I'm well aware of my limits," Mahiru assured him calmly. "I wish I had that kind of confidence."

"Hehe." Mahiru let out a soft chuckle, her smile both proud and playfully mischievous.

I can never win against her, can I? After looking at her smile, Amane pulled a rice paddle from the drawer, ready to serve the freshly steamed rice.

✧ ₊ ✦ ₊ ✧

As soon as February rolled around, the world at large began to gear up for the Valentine's Day rush. Soon enough, this frenzy spread everywhere.

Amane noticed the girls at his school chatting excitedly among themselves while the boys, perhaps driven by anticipation, grew visibly more restless as the fateful day approached.

Amane had never taken much interest in Valentine's, but this year, he was sure that Mahiru would give him something. It would be a lie to say he felt nothing. Still, he didn't expect anything beyond that, so he found himself watching everyone else get excited from a distance like some kind of spectator.

"Kadowaki's gonna be swamped this Valentine's." Watching this scene unfold, Amane muttered under his breath.

After finishing his morning practice, Yuuta sat at his desk and began studying, wasting no time reviewing his textbook before the first class started. Girls from other classes were even casting admiring glances at him from afar. Amane was impressed by the dedication of these girls, who had gone out of the way of their various classrooms just to catch a glimpse of their crush. However, the truly remarkable part was that it wasn't just one or two. There were more girls each time he looked.

Itsuki, who had been quietly flipping through his flashcards beside Amane, looked up after hearing his comment. His look changed to one of sympathy as he likely recalled what happened last year.

"Yeah, it's gonna be rough for him. He's the captain and ace of the track team, and on top of that, he's got the looks, the brains, and the personality. It's no wonder the girls are practically lining up hoping to be swept away."

"Hey, don't make it sound like he's cleaning up."

"It's just a figure of speech. Whether Yuuta's actually happy with this is another story."

"He's probably more bewildered than anything."

Yuuta didn't exactly dislike the fact that people admired him, but he had mixed feelings about how the constant stream of high-pitched squeals had become a daily thing for him. More often than not, he would tense his face up in a troubled, almost distressed way.

As his friend, Amane occasionally worried that Yuuta's overwhelming popularity might spark resentment from the other guys. But, thankfully, most of the boys couldn't bring themselves to truly envy him. Yuuta's genuine character and the obvious burden he carried with his popularity earned him more feelings of sympathy than jealousy.

"Hope he doesn't misjudge how many gifts he'll get this year." "Needing to estimate is bad enough, but getting used to it sounds even worse."

"Seriously…seeing how popular he is all year around kinda numbs your senses."

"Yeah. Normally, just getting a single confession would be a huge deal for a guy."

Having someone confess their feelings to you was nothing short of a pivotal moment—at least for Amane. It required a once-in-a-lifetime level of determination and courage. And seeing Yuuta receive that kind of attention from many people, Amane felt more alarmed than amazed at this point.

"Yuuta's not the best at handling pushy girls. He always turns them down, telling them he just wants to focus on track. He also says that he finds it rude to go out with someone without really knowing them. That's so like him, though—he could have his pick of the litter."

"Yeah, Kadowaki's the definition of 'sincere.' He's as sensible and genuine as they come."

Amane found Yuuta's earnestness and sincerity toward others to be incredibly admirable. He couldn't understand dating someone just to give it a try or juggling multiple relationships at once, so it was hard not to admire Yuuta. Despite having plenty of options, he still treated each person sincerely and turned them down with respect.

Some might argue that this was the bare minimum, but Amane found Yuuta's effortless upholding those values and acting based on what he felt was admirable. To him, it was a fundamental quality in a person.

"You really hold Yuuta in high regard, don't you?" Itsuki mentioned. "Well, yeah. He's a good guy. Anyone can tell if they pay a little attention." "Ouch, you never compliment me, though!"

"Maybe if you stopped teasing me so much, that'd change." "Oh, then I can do without the nice words."

"Hey."

"Well, no matter. You might not say it out loud, but I know you acknowledge me."

"Oh, shut up. You're so annoying!" "Mwah ha ha!"

Amane shot Itsuki a glare that said, "What's your problem?" but it didn't faze him one bit. Itsuki only grinned even harder, and Amane's reaction amused him. After a moment, Amane let out a sigh of exasperation.

Amane had already lost the moment Itsuki had him figured out. Still, Itsuki declaring it so openly both irritated Amane and made him a little embarrassed. Not wanting to give Itsuki more material to tease him with, Amane stopped talking, turning away to push his friend out of sight. Naturally, Itsuki laughed yet again, looking very much entertained.

"At least Valentine's will be a walk in the park for us."

Compared to Yuuta, Amane and Itsuki had it easy—they had no need to stress. Neither of them was especially popular, and most importantly, Amane already had Mahiru. As long as he received something from her, that was all he needed. Then there was Itsuki, who had Chitose.

If things went like last year, Amane would probably get some obligatory friendship chocolate from Chitose, but nothing more. He didn't have to worry too much about what to give in return, nor did he have any desire to be given anything else. It seemed like he'd be able to spend Valentine's Day peacefully without any snags.

"Yep, get ready for another round of Chi's miracle cooking this year." "You're her boyfriend; stop her madness."

"You really think I can?" "…True, I doubt she'd listen."

Lately, Chitose had mellowed out a bit and even become more serious in some regards, but when it came to events like Valentine's, she still let her excitement take over in all the wrong ways. The chocolates she gave last year were pretty good—at least the normal ones were—so Amane hoped she'd stick to that approach this time. However, he had a sneaking suspicion that Chitose wasn't one to settle for normal.

Who knows what she'll come up with this time…

As that thought crossed Amane's mind, Itsuki suddenly raised a finger with a smug grin, looking as though he were proud of something.

"This year, they're gonna be in different taste, apparently," Itsuki began. "That doesn't sound like a pun to me," Amane said, worried.

"It'll be her masterpiece, crafted with so much creativity and brilliance that you'll be weeping tears of joy, so she says."

"Yeah, you definitely meant that literally."

"Good for you, eh? Looks like you're in for another spicy surprise this year."

"I might just cry."

Thanks to her own beliefs and pride, coupled with Mahiru's sensible warnings, Chitose never made anything that was completely inedible. However, within the boundaries of what could still be consumed, she had a knack for crafting dishes that would shock anyone to their core.

Chitose's love for spicy food was the biggest reason no one could stop her. Whenever she cooked for her own high tolerance, the result was always dangerously potent for someone like Amane, whose tolerance was well below average. He could only hope she'd realize that by now.

Itsuki doubled over in laughter, getting a kick out of Amane's reaction like it wasn't his problem. Amane genuinely considered if it might be best to make Itsuki also clutch his stomach for real after sampling whatever concoction Chitose had cooked up.

"Aren't you delighted? Maybe if you start crying now, you might just build up some resistance!"

"Yeah, good call—it's about time you started building some resistance of your own. I'll make sure Chitose has you sample plenty as her taste tester."

"You'd sell out your best friend!?"

"Hey, don't worry, don't worry. If your adorable girlfriend makes it, you can handle anything she throws at you."

"There's no way I'll survive!"

"Remind me, weren't you the one encouraging me to eat them last time?" "Hey! Could you not treat my food like some kind of lethal substance?"

As Amane and Itsuki continued to bicker before class started, the subject of their conversation—none other than the spice-loving culinary master herself, Chitose—cut in with a slightly miffed look. While she wasn't angry, it was clear she wasn't pleased either. She lightly smacked Itsuki's shoulder in protest.

"Chitose, could you not give me food spiked with spicy stuff?" Amane pleaded.

"Nopeee!"

"Then just experiment on Itsuki and make sure it's something tolerable.

Feel free to give him as many samples as you like." "Oh, fyiiine. If you insist."

"You just sold me out right in front of me! Chi!?" "It'll be fine, it'll be fine!"

What will?

Amane wanted to snap back, but having successfully lined up Itsuki as the first victim, he ignored his friend's desperate attempt at puppy-dog eyes for now and turned away.

"Relax, I'll at least make it edible. It's not good to throw food away." "You don't think throwing all your spices in it is a waste in itself?" "I'm just exploring the abyss of unknown flavors in order to reach heights never before seen. And I make sure it can all be eaten. I won't stop until Mahirun gives me her stamp of approval."

"…Please, just don't mess up Mahiru's taste buds, I'm begging you."

Since Chitose mentioned getting Mahiru's stamp of approval, that meant she wanted Mahiru to taste-test her creations as well. As her boyfriend, Amane couldn't tolerate anything too extreme being forced on her. He didn't mind if he or Itsuki had to endure such horrors, but the possibility of Mahiru going through that was something he definitely—absolutely—wanted to prevent.

"Oh, come on! I'm not gonna make anything that'll give her an upset stomach or tongue. Also, Mahirun can handle spicy stuff way better than you, Amane. She'll probably gobble it down no problem. I always make sure my food is at least tasty."

"And yet Itsuki was screaming in agony last year…"

"Well, Ikkun could never handle his spice. Don't worry, I'll whip up something special just for him! Separate from the taste tests!"

"Wow, how lovely. I'm so happy to hear that," Itsuki mumbled.

"Come on, at least pretend to be excited!" Chitose raised her eyebrows at her boyfriend, whose trust in her had dwindled to near nonexistence thanks to her past offenses.

If this keeps up, she'll probably make Itsuki's chocolate even spicier than mine. Amane silently clasped his hands together in sympathy.

"Anywho, look forward to getting chocolate from Mahirun and me. It's a secret until the day!"

"I mean, feel free… I'm just grateful to be getting anything at all."

"Heh heh, you better be grateful!" Chitose struck a smug pose with her hands on her hips and a cocky grin plastered on her face. But when Amane, who was genuinely happy to receive anything, simply said, "Thanks as always," her enthusiasm deflated. He heard her mutter, "There you go again…" under her breath.

"By the way, Amane," she then added. "Yeah?"

"What would you do if you got chocolate from another girl?" Chitose spoke quietly this time, not wanting anyone else to hear.

Amane tilted his head. "You mean like obligatory chocolate? If someone were to give me some, I'd just accept it and return the favor. I'm not expecting anything, though."

"Why assume that I mean the obligatory kind?"

"I mean, I'm dating Mahiru, so no one would give anything more than that. No chance."

Though not everyone at school knew, most students knew that Amane and Mahiru were dating. He didn't expect to receive any heartfelt chocolates, nor did he have any interest in them.

"Yikes, where's your confidence?"

"It's not about confidence. It'd be weirder if I went, 'I'm definitely gonna get heartfelt chocolate for Valentine's this year!' wouldn't it? I'm not that cocky or shallow, you know."

"Yeah, I know you aren't, but…"

Chitose's expression and tone were somber than usual, as if something was weighing on her.

"But, you know, the world isn't always that simple. People can fall in love with someone who already has a lover. You can't control how your heart feels."

"We've talked about this before, but…I've already decided that I won't reciprocate their feelings. Besides, why are we even assuming there's a girl like that in the first place?"

"Is it so bad to talk about a 'what if' scenario?" "C'mon now…"

"Amane, I know that this must sound completely absurd to you. But I don't think it's impossible. Having a crush on someone doesn't always mean you want them to see you the same way. Wasn't it the same for you?"

"…Yeah."

Amane loved and wanted to cherish Mahiru, but it wasn't always out of possessiveness or a desire to have her by his side at all costs. There were moments when he felt that as long as Mahiru was happy, that was enough for him.

"I just think you should be more mindful of things like this," Chitose continued. "Mahirun gets pretty anxious about it."

"Well, yeah… I get it, and I don't want to make her upset. That's why I'm trying to be careful. But…wouldn't thinking, 'Wait, are girls really interested in me?' just make me seem full of myself?"

"Yeah, it'd be pretty funny if you said that, Amane."

"Oi." You're the one who brought it up. Amane glared at her, but Chitose just grinned back without a care in the world. Her relaxed expression quickly dulled Amane's frustration.

"Whatever happens, I'll just say this—if you make Mahirun cry, I'll be furious."

At the mention of Mahiru crying, Amane instinctively tensed, recalling what had happened last year. Chitose's eyes widened in disbelief as she stared at him, her expression clearly saying, "You're kidding, right?" Itsuki shot him the same look, leaving Amane feeling incredibly uncomfortable.

"…You made her cry?" "I haven't! Not recently!" "Not recently, eh?"

"…I made her cry on her birthday."

Amane would never willingly hurt Mahiru, and he constantly tried to keep her smiling. But her birthday—that had been a different matter entirely.

He hadn't made her sad or hurt her in any way. Amane was sure those were tears of joy—Mahiru had even confirmed it herself. If the simple fact that she cried was enough to hold against him, then he guessed he could be judged for it. But if that counted, he'd be in serious trouble going forward. He could only hope they'd let it slide.

"Ohh… Then I'll let you off this time!"

"What authority do you have to decide that…?"

"The authority of being Mahirun's best friend!" "Right, sure."

Chitose puffed out her chest with a proud "Ahem." As Amane rubbed his forehead in exhaustion, he noticed Mahiru approaching. She had been chatting with Ayaka but now came over, looking slightly concerned. With a casual wave, Amane signaled her not to worry, assuring her it was nothing.

✧ ₊ ✦ ₊ ✧ 

Since Amane had a shift today, he went to work as usual and completed his tasks. As he cleared an empty table, Miyamoto returned to the counter and muttered, "You know, I get excited for Valentine's every year."

"Are you expecting to get a lion's share of chocolate or something?" Amane asked.

"No, no, nothing like that. You know how we change the menu in the café seasonally, right? We get to taste-test everything, and it's always so nice."

"Ahh, right. The food here is great."

It wasn't uncommon for cafés to have a seasonal menu, but here, the offerings were decided entirely by Fumika. Despite the spontaneity of her choices, the taste was always spot on. With Valentine's season in full swing, the menu now featured chocolate-themed desserts and light snacks, which quickly became a hit with customers.

Since Itomaki personally prepared all the desserts in the back, everything she made tasted great. She had a real passion for flavor, which showed in her recipes. Occasionally, there would be some leftovers due to the sheer amount she made, but when that happened, she secretly gave them to the staff. Amane often found himself enjoying those sweet treats.

Of course, he was always careful not to overeat. Amane didn't want to gain weight, and Mahiru always had home-cooked meals waiting for him after his shifts. Still, Itomaki's desserts were so delicious that even the smaller portions were more than enough to satisfy him.

"The owner's really generous, so I'm glad I took on this job," Miyamoto said with a grin.

"I didn't know you had a sweet tooth, Miyamoto-san."

"Yeah, I like sweets quite a bit. It's nice to save a bit on food expenses, too."

"I believe you live alone, right?"

"Yeah, I do. I'm renting a place near my university. My parents' house isn't too far either, though."

"Snagged himself a pretty decent spot, too," Oohashi added.

With closing time approaching and only a few customers left, the café had grown quiet. Oohashi, who was on the same shift, returned carrying a siphon she had just cleaned. While she hadn't dropped or broken one recently, Miyamoto still eyed her cautiously. It seemed Oohashi hadn't fully earned his trust when it came to handling the equipment.

"Well, I did get in through a recommendation, so I got first dibs on my apartment."

"Humble bragging about your smarts, hmm?"

"Compared to you, you can't deny I had better grades and attitude."

Recently, Amane noticed that their exchanges were less like arguments and more like playful jabs. He no longer felt the need to step in and mediate, so he simply left them to their banter.

Miyamoto and Oohashi's relationship hadn't changed much since that one incident. Although they still bickered and clashed, their confrontations had become noticeably milder. They were much more playful now, which could be considered progress in its own way.

From what Amane could tell, they hadn't grown a lot closer, but there was no mistaking they were much more comfortable around each other. There was this certain vibe between them, though Amane couldn't quite put his finger on what it was.

Either way, it wasn't something Amane wanted to get too involved in. He could easily be blamed if he unintentionally stirred the pot and their relationship took an awkward turn. So, he kept his distance for now, quietly observing from the sidelines.

"So, what about you, Fujimiya? Got any plans for Valentine's?" Miyamoto asked casually, brushing off Oohashi's teasing as he returned to the original topic.

Since his coworkers knew he had requested time off on the day, Amane figured there was no point in hiding it. He answered honestly.

"I'm just going to spend the day with my girlfriend. Nothing special," he said.

"You're gonna be all over each other, aren'tcha?"

"I mean, wouldn't ignoring Valentine's Day be a bad idea as a boyfriend?"

"You've got a point. Even Kayano's booked Valentine's off." Souji, who wasn't working today, had actually worked through

Christmas. But this time, he had taken Valentine's Day off. "…And you, Miyamoto-san?"

"Unfortunately, I'm working. But hey, at least the owner always brings in sweets for us, so it's not all bad."

"Working a shift just for the snacks…not sure how I feel about that," Oohashi interjected.

"Aren't you on the same shift?"

"Can you blame me? We get to try stuff from the seasonal menu. For free."

"So you're literally doing the same thing." "Shut up! Stooopid, stooopid."

Oohashi tossed out a few childish insults that fell a bit flat. She looked rather fidgety, like there was something on her mind.

Looks like things aren't entirely hopeless for these two, after all.

Amane felt relieved at their small but noticeable progress.

However, his thoughts must have been written all over his face, for both Miyamoto and Oohashi immediately turned on him. "What's so funny?" they demanded. Startled, Amane quickly wiped the grin off his face in favor of his customer service smile. Without a word, he hurried over to the freshly returned dishes, swiftly escaping the situation.