Date

The next morning, I woke up in my small rented room, sunlight barely peeking through the thin curtains. I got up quickly, took a cold shower, and began getting ready for my date with Nana.

As I buttoned my shirt, memories of last night flickered in my mind—specifically, what had happened with Acha. She wanted me to take responsibility, and now here I was, preparing to go on a date with Nana instead. But… when a cute girl asks you out, how can you really say no?

Still, once this date is over, I'll need to seriously think about where I stand in all of this.

I glanced at the mirror, staring at my own reflection. "Hmm… I guess I'm not too bad-looking," I murmured.

My dark hair—neatly maintained—shone faintly under the morning light. My eyes were as black as most people's, nothing special really. Just... ordinary. No wonder I'd had such a hard time getting a girlfriend before.

But now, everything's changed.

Ever since I got this strange system, the one that raises affection levels whenever I get closer to a girl, it feels like my luck with women has skyrocketed.

If I can win Nana's heart today… I'll probably get a reward.

Let's go.

Let's win her over.

With that thought burning in my chest, I threw on my jacket and stepped out the door, ready to face whatever the day would bring.

I hopped on my beloved motorcycle, the one that had been with me for three years now. It wasn't the flashiest, but it was mine. Reliable. Faithful. There were only a few payments left before I fully owned it, and that thought alone gave me even more motivation to keep working hard.

After warming up the engine, I strapped on my helmet and made my way toward Nana's house. It wasn't far from my place—actually, it was just a short ride away, which always made it easier to pick her up. I remembered how strange it used to feel when she'd often reject my offers for a ride. Maybe it really was thanks to this system that I was able to grow so close to her now.

I rode carefully, reminding myself to stay alert—no reckless riding. I had a life worth holding on to now.

Before long, I arrived in front of her house. It wasn't huge, but not small either—somewhere in between. Comfortable. As I parked my bike, I messaged her to let her know I had arrived.

She replied almost instantly.

"Just wait a moment," she wrote.

While waiting, someone familiar stepped outside—the one man I didn't expect to meet so soon.

Nana's father.

I recognized him instantly; he'd often pick her up from work before. His gaze was sharp, inspecting me with a kind of quiet intensity that made my spine straighten. Still, I greeted him politely.

"Good morning, sir."

He didn't smile. "You're taking my daughter somewhere?"

I nodded. "Yes, sir. We're going out for a bit."

To my surprise, he simply nodded and said, "Drive safely."

…Huh?

That's it?

I had been bracing myself for a lecture—or maybe even a threat—but all I got was calm, almost nonchalant approval. It caught me off guard in the best way possible.

"Yes, sir. Thank you," I said, bowing my head slightly.

Right then, Nana stepped out.

And everything around me seemed to slow down.

She wasn't wearing her usual ponytail today—her hair flowed freely over her shoulders, framing her soft features. Her outfit was simple but elegant, and somehow, she looked even more radiant than usual. Like a cute little angel had descended from the sky.

She turned to her father. "I'll be going now, Dad."

"Don't stay out too late," he replied.

"I won't," she said softly.

Then she turned to me, eyes bright, cheeks slightly pink. "Sorry, senpai, did you wait long?"

I shook my head. "Not at all. By the way… you look beautiful today."

[Affection: Nana +1%]

She giggled shyly. "Thank you, senpai."

I lifted the footrest for her and helped steady the bike as she climbed on behind me. Once she was seated, I turned and gave her father one last respectful nod.

Then we rode off together.

We headed off toward the cultural event Nana had suggested—a local festival filled with stalls and pop-up shops, mostly selling snacks, street food, and quirky crafts. It wasn't the kind of high-class date you'd see in movies, but it was colorful, lively, and perfect for a casual afternoon out.

Our plan was simple: eat whatever we wanted, as much as we wanted. A snack-filled adventure.

As I rode through the streets, I suddenly felt Nana's arms tightening gently around my waist. Her touch was warm and light—but it still sent a wave of nervous energy through me.

Was she… holding me like that because we looked like a couple?

Or…

Wait. Was my stomach sticking out?

Damn, I really needed to start working out. I didn't want her to notice anything like that. Maybe after today's date, I'd actually start going for runs—or at least do a few push-ups in my room.

Then Nana's soft voice reached my ears, barely audible over the wind.

"Thank you for agreeing to come with me today."

I smiled under my helmet. "It's no problem, Nana. Honestly, I'm happy to go out with you."

[Affection: Nana +1%]

"…I see," she said quietly, almost to herself.

"I haven't really been out like this in a while, either," I added. "Been working too much. Changing the scenery like this—it's refreshing."

Nana let out a small giggle. "Exactly. We should switch it up sometimes, right?"

"Yeah. Definitely."

I could hear the warmth in her voice—light, cheerful, and just a bit shy. With her arms still around me and the sun warming our backs, this day already felt special.

[Affection: Nana +1%]

[Affection: Nana +1%]