I Just Want a Single Ending [162] [100 PS]

Your support has carved the path for these bonus chapters—may they bring you joy.

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After deciding on amusement park tickets as Nijika Ijichi's birthday gift, Kamigawa Saku pulled up a map on his phone.

This mall didn't sell tickets, so he'd have to make a trip to the park itself.

Even with today's rain, buying two tickets shouldn't be an issue.

Shortly after, Chihaya Anon messaged him with the final list of gifts they needed him to pick up.

Once he bought everything, had it carefully gift-wrapped, and packed into a large box, he left the mall with his hands full of gifts.

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After securing the park tickets and having them wrapped as well, Kamigawa hopped in a cab and headed for STARRY.

When he reached the entrance, he messaged Anon.

Kamigawa Saku: I'm outside. Can you do something to keep Nijika distracted? I don't want her to notice this box—it's got the gifts.

Even though the box wouldn't scream "birthday gifts" at first glance, if Nijika noticed it, she'd definitely ask what was inside.

And no matter how well he covered, she'd eventually realize it held birthday presents.

The last thing he wanted was for Nijika to find out that Kita Ikuyo and Gotoh Hitori didn't know it was her birthday—or that, while Ryo remembered, she hadn't prepared a real gift.

He couldn't do that to the amazing Nijika Ijichi!

It was better to keep the whole box under wraps from the start.

Chihaya Anon: Got it.

Once she confirmed, Kamigawa carefully pushed the door open and stepped inside.

Immediately, he heard Ryo's voice proclaiming loudly, "I'm quitting Kessoku Band!"

"What?! What are you talking about?" Nijika rushed over, looking at her friend with exasperation.

"Being in a band is boring. I've decided to focus on my studies and get into Tokyo University!"

With that, Ryo tied a "Good Luck" headband around her head with absolute resolve.

"Snap out of it! Midterms ended ages ago. Get a grip!"

Nijika looked more than used to Ryo's antics by now, tugging at her headband in frustration.

"No way! I'm a woman destined for Tokyo University!"

Unwilling to back down, Ryo "fought" with Nijika, their little scuffle serving as the perfect distraction.

Kamigawa slipped past them and into the practice room, where he met up with Anon, Kita, and Hitori.

From the bar, Seika Ijichi and the PA manager watched the whole scene unfold.

"What are they up to?" Seika asked, more baffled than anything.

"I'm not sure, but it looks pretty entertaining. Maybe this is just how young people are," the PA manager mused, equally lost.

"...We're still young, you know."

Seika didn't appreciate the reminder about age.

"That's true," the PA manager agreed.

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Once the gifts were distributed inside the practice room, Kamigawa stowed Ryo's in a prominent spot before heading out.

By then, Nijika had emerged victorious from her "fight" with Ryo.

"Forget that weird idea and don't go spouting nonsense like that again!"

Nijika held the headband, triumphantly declaring her victory as Ryo lay defeated on the ground.

"Sorry, Nijika-sama."

Ryo, for her part, took the loss with humility.

"Good afternoon, Nijika."

Kamigawa walked over and greeted her.

"Oh, afternoon! When did you get here?"

Hearing his voice, Nijika turned toward him, her curiosity piqued.

"Just now."

Kamigawa glanced at Ryo, sprawled on the floor, and feigned ignorance. "By the way, what's up with Ryo?"

"Oh, nothing much. She just said some weird stuff about quitting the band," Nijika explained casually.

"Ah, I see."

Kamigawa kindly helped Ryo back onto her feet.

Just then, Kita, Anon, and Hitori joined them in the main area, and Kamigawa greeted them as if he'd just arrived.

After chatting briefly, Kita suddenly remembered the "pretend couple" plan and realized this was the perfect chance to ask for advice.

Not only was the whole band here, but Kamigawa was present too. Even the adults, Seika and the PA manager, were nearby.

If she didn't ask now, when would she?

Finding an opening, Kita spoke up, "Um, everyone, I have a favor to ask. I'd really appreciate your advice."

"Of course! What is it?"

Nijika answered immediately, and everyone turned to her, ready to listen.

"It's… about me and Kamigawa-senpai."

Taking a seat by the table, Kita tried to ease into her request.

Kamigawa immediately guessed where she was going with this.

"Wait, are you about to tell us you two are dating?" Ryo interrupted, throwing out a completely reckless guess.

"Huh?! Seriously?"

Anon's face flushed in surprise as she looked to Kita for confirmation.

When did this happen?

She hadn't heard anything about it!

"…"

Hitori stayed quiet, only imagining what the two would look like together.

To be honest, they seemed like a perfect fit.

With Kita's cheerful, outgoing personality and Kamigawa's cool, studious demeanor, they'd make a great match.

As for herself, she could only watch and wish them happiness from the sidelines.

"N-no way! Kamigawa-senpai and I aren't dating!"

Kita shook her head frantically, denying it.

"Oh, I see. So what did you want our advice on, then?"

Hearing this, Anon instantly relaxed.

She'd let herself get too carried away over a random comment.

"Feel free to share—no one here would mind." Nijika gave her a warm smile.

"Here's the situation… Due to certain reasons, Kamigawa-senpai and I have to pretend to be a couple for a day. So, I wanted to ask how we can make it seem convincing, you know, to look like an actual couple so no one suspects us."

After the earlier misunderstanding, Kita decided to just lay it all out plainly.

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Greetings, esteemed Readers,

Your steadfast support throughout this journey has been as constant as the tides and as enduring as stone. In the spirit of gratitude, I am pleased to announce the release of bonus chapters, a reflection of your unwavering dedication and enthusiasm.

Should you wish to continue fortifying the foundation of these tales, WiseTL's efforts can be supported here:

[patreon.com/WiseTL].

Even the humblest contribution becomes part of an enduring legacy, a cornerstone for tales yet to unfold.

As my time here concludes, may the strength of stone guide you forward. Until we meet again.

With utmost sincerity,

— Zhongli