I Just Want A Single Ending!

The next day, in the afternoon.

Kamigawa Saku and Chihaya Anon walked together toward the practice room.

Last night, he'd had a long conversation with Nijika Ijichi about Gotoh Hitori.

They'd settled on a basic approach: ease Bocchi-chan into getting comfortable performing in front of an audience, little by little.

They'd also chatted about some other things—nothing serious, just casual talk between friends.

Funny stories from school, band plans, that kind of thing.

He'd enjoyed it immensely, and he couldn't deny how lucky he felt to have Nijika as a friend.

While he was lost in thought, Saku chatted idly with Anon to pass the time.

When they pushed open the door to the practice room, they found Shiina Taki and Nagasaki Soyo already there.

"Didn't Tomori come with you?" Taki asked, noticing only the two of them.

"She had cleaning duty today and has a report to finish for the astronomy club, so she'll be a bit late," Saku explained. "We thought about waiting for her, but she told us to go on ahead."

"I see."

Since it was Tomori's decision, Taki had no objections.

Soyo stepped forward, looking concerned. "What about Raana?"

"I messaged her, but still no response."

Saku checked his phone again; the message was still unread.

"Let's hope she gets here soon. Otherwise, we won't be able to start practice," Soyo said, feigning concern.

Last time, Saku had chased after Anon right as practice ended, leaving her plan delayed until now.

"Are we still rehearsing Spring Shadows today?"

Taking out her guitar, Anon asked the others.

After returning home yesterday, she hadn't slacked off as usual but practiced seriously.

After all, Saku had done so much for her; she couldn't let him down.

So, she'd dedicated herself to practicing properly.

At the very least, she didn't want to be the one holding the band back.

"Yeah."

Taki nodded and reminded her, "Just don't lose the beat this time."

"I got it. No need to remind me."

Anon waved her off dismissively and began strumming her guitar.

"…"

Taki decided to hold off on further comments.

There was no point in saying anything now—they'd see soon enough during practice.

If she still couldn't keep up, then he'd have to have a talk with her.

A short while later, Tomori and Raana finally arrived.

"I'm hungry."

"You know the drill—pick whatever you want."

Seeing Raana head straight for him in search of snacks, Saku smiled and opened his bag.

He'd been prepared for this and had stocked his bag with a variety of snacks, perfect for sharing.

After all, as an influencer specializing in product reviews, he knew what snacks girls tended to like.

Watching Raana dig into the pile of treats he pulled from his bag, Taki reminded her, "The practice room isn't a dining room, you know."

"You need energy to practice," Saku replied easily and handed Tomori a beautifully wrapped treat.

"Here, Tomori, try this. It's delicious."

"Thank you."

Tomori accepted it carefully.

"…Fine, I guess you're right."

Seeing Tomori start eating too, Taki reluctantly conceded that Saku had a point.

"Don't be shy—help yourselves to whatever you like," Saku said, passing the snacks around.

The first to receive one was Taki.

"I'm not hungry right now. I don't feel like eating."

"This treat is the same one I gave Tomori. Just try a bite," Saku said with a smile. "Even if you're not hungry, a small taste won't hurt."

"…Fine, I'll give it a try."

With that, Taki couldn't resist and took it.

Watching Saku move on to Soyo with the same treat in hand, she felt as if he could read her mind.

Soyo and Anon were much easier to convince.

"How is it, Tomori?" Saku asked as he finished handing out snacks.

"It's delicious."

Tomori's reply was simple but genuine.

"Glad to hear it."

Saku smiled, then glanced over at Taki.

"Tomori, do you want more? I've got plenty."

Ignoring Saku, Taki walked over to Tomori with her own treat.

She had to admit, after tasting one piece, it was delicious.

But since Tomori liked it, she'd let her have the rest.

Tomori smiled gently. "I'll save it for after practice."

"Right… okay."

Taki nearly forgot they still had practice.

Ugh, this is all Saku's fault!

"…"

Soyo, watching the exchange, glanced down at the treat Saku had given her.

She had a bad feeling.

Saku wasn't easy to handle.

But even so, she wasn't about to give up on her plan now.

Once Raana finished her snack, they finally began practice.

Saku took his usual seat as the audience.

Compared to last time, he could tell Anon had improved significantly.

She hadn't exactly reached Raana's level, but at least she could keep up with the beat.

When they finished the song, Taki looked at Anon but didn't comment.

She'd improved a lot, which at least showed she'd practiced diligently at home.

"Can we run through it one more time?"

Taki took a deep breath and checked with everyone.

"Sure."

---

As time ticked by, today's practice finally came to an end.

"Great job, everyone. Take care on your way back," Kamigawa Saku said as they parted ways.

"Saku-kun, are you heading home now?"

Nagasaki Soyo lingered, not quite ready to leave.

"Yes, I am."

With a small smile, Soyo extended an invitation. "Perfect timing—I'm heading home too. How about we walk back together?"

---

Thanks for reading! Let me know if you spot any mistakes or inconsistencies!

If you wish to support me or read ahead here's a link! [patreon.com/WiseTL]