Chapter 293: Impromptu Girlfriend - Yukino Yukinoshita
Sunday, a new week.
Although the agreed-upon time with Yukino was in the afternoon, Hachiman decided to start his day early. He first went to Saeko's house and visited the kendo dojo. He hadn't shared the news of his attainment of Sword Saint with Saeko, Kotonoha, and Maki yet.
As expected, when he demonstrated the invisible sword aura he gained from achieving Sword Saint, the girls were excited. Considering their genuine love for kendo, reaching the pinnacle of swordsmanship, the "Sword Saint," was a dream for them.
Unexpectedly, Hachiman's achievement in the realm of Sword Saint left them thrilled. After being defeated by Hachiman in a single move, Saeko couldn't contain her excitement. She immediately pinned Hachiman to the ground, initiating an intense battle in the kendo dojo. Kotonoha and Maki, feeling a bit shy but equally excited, joined in.
The "private guidance from the newly minted Sword Saint" lasted for over two hours. The wooden floor of the kendo dojo bore witness to the intensity of their training, marked by puddles of sweat.
After the vigorous session, both girls succumbed to exhaustion. Hachiman, unburdened by fatigue, took the initiative to prepare some porridge in the kitchen, satisfying his hunger before attempting to wake the two girls for a meal. However, the "private guidance" session proved so intense that Saeko, Kotonoha, and Maki were too exhausted to move a finger, let alone get up for food.
In desperation, Hachiman informed them about the porridge he had made and stored in a thermos, encouraging them to eat when they woke up. He covered each girl with a blanket, lightly kissed their foreheads, and left the kendo dojo.
With the agreed-upon time with Yukino approaching, he needed to head to the designated location.
...
Yukino's apartment.
Having had lunch, the girl rested on the sofa.
"Is it already this time?"
Checking the wall clock, Yukino stood up from the sofa and headed into the bedroom.
After a short while, changed into a different outfit, she left the apartment.
LaLa-port TOKYO-bay!
Hachiman, having arrived first at the agreed-upon location, looked around but didn't spot Yukino. Sitting on a bench, he waited.
About ten minutes later, the sound of footsteps reached his ears.
Looking up, he saw Yukino walking briskly towards him.
"Sorry for making you wait."
Seeing Yukino with her hair tied into twin tails, Hachiman's eyes brightened.
Accustomed to the girl's long black hair for a long time, the sudden switch to twin tails felt quite novel to Hachiman. However, it mainly depended on the face, and beautiful people looked good in any style. Considering Yukino's top-tier beauty, well, if we focus only on looks, other aspects can be overlooked...
"It's okay; I just arrived too." Hachiman smiled, shaking his head, then complimented her.
"Yukino, you look really beautiful today."
Hearing his praise, a faint blush appeared on Yukino's face.
"Thank you."
Her already exquisite features seemed even more enchanting with this touch of blush, causing Hachiman's heart to beat a bit faster involuntarily.
"Let's go; we have the whole afternoon to pick a gift for Yui."
"Yeah, let's go."
Yukino nodded, and together they entered the shopping center.
"What are you planning to give Yui?"
While walking, Hachiman asked Yukino beside him.
"Well, I'm not too sure. Let's see as we go. After all, I don't know what Yui likes." Yukino looked like she planned to browse and decide as they strolled.
Although they talked about buying a gift for Yui, it was evident that the girl herself was also interested in shopping.
Hachiman had no objections to this. After all, it was indeed an inevitable approach. When it comes to gifts for girls, it's usually clothing or some small accessories.
So, their first stop was a clothing store.
"Welcome."
As they entered the clothing store, a female sales assistant bowed slightly.
Yukino was fine, but when the sales assistant saw Hachiman, her gaze couldn't help but become somewhat peculiar.
Noticing her expression, Hachiman couldn't help but feel puzzled.
"What's wrong? Is there something off about me?"
"There's nothing wrong with you, but, sir, this is a women's clothing store," the sales assistant reminded with a slight smile.
Hachiman realized it instantly upon hearing her words.
"Don't worry; I'm not some cross-dressing weirdo. I'm just here accompanying my girlfriend to pick out clothes." He gestured towards Yukino.
"Girlfriend?"
The sales assistant looked skeptical, clearly finding it hard to believe that someone as beautiful as Yukino would have someone like Hachiman as a boyfriend.
Seeing her expression, Hachiman was left somewhat exasperated.
Aside from my weird gaze, I'm still considered a handsome guy, you know.
To prove his point, Hachiman took a step forward, gently holding Yukino's arm.
Suddenly being held by him, Yukino felt a moment of surprise, and a blush crept onto her face. However, the girl only made a symbolic attempt to pull away before giving in.
I still need his help in picking out clothes. Everything is for buying a gift for Yui...
Yukino comforted herself in her mind, but as for her true thoughts, it remained unknown.
"Sorry, sorry, I apologize sincerely."
Seeing Yukino not resisting the grip on her arm, the sales assistant, with a reasonably delicate appearance, quickly bowed in apology.
After all, she was just a part-time worker. If Hachiman were to complain, she would likely be scolded by the store manager, and her wages might be deducted.
"It's okay. Just don't judge people solely by appearances next time."
Hachiman didn't mind, casually waving his hand.
"Thank you, sir," the female sales assistant expressed her gratitude promptly.
"Is there anything I can help you with?"
Unfortunately, Hachiman didn't like the feeling of being followed.
"That won't be necessary. We can manage on our own."
"Alright then, I wish you a pleasant shopping experience."
The sales assistant didn't insist, bowing slightly before stepping back.
In the midst of a dazzling array of clothes, Hachiman felt a bit overwhelmed. He randomly picked up a seemingly nice piece and handed it to Yukino.
"What do you think of this one?"
"Let me take a look."
Yukino accepted the garment and, much to Hachiman's speechless gaze, began to scrutinize it, tearing it apart to assess its quality and craftsmanship.
"What are you doing?"
"I'm just judging the quality and workmanship of this garment based on its material."
The girl spoke matter-of-factly amidst Hachiman's incredulous stare.