Chapter : Christmas! (Non-canon)
It's that time of year—Christmas!
The entire kingdom is decorated to the brim, ready to make this celebration a memory carved into history.
I've been looking forward to this event for so long, and I know I'm not the only one. Yumiko has been talking about it non-stop, and even Julian has been buzzing with excitement for the festivities.
Everyone has come together to help, smiles lighting up their faces as they bake and decorate every corner of the kingdom. The shimmering lights lining the streets stretch all the way to the mansion, which has its own festive charm—including a towering Christmas tree in the main hall.
The smell of delicious dishes wafts through the air, making my stomach rumble, while the cheerful whispers about the beautiful night ahead fill me with anticipation.
Tonight, we'll drink to our heart's content and feast until we're full!
"—"
The mansion is warm and inviting, filled with a cozy atmosphere that everyone seems to have embraced. Soft, comfortable clothes are the theme for the night, and Yumiko and Umi look absolutely adorable in theirs!
All the maids have the night off—everything has already been prepared in advance—so they're free to relax and enjoy themselves. It's a rare sight to see them dressed in such cute, fluffy outfits instead of their usual uniforms.
And there's Yumiko, looking absolutely enchanting in her Santa hat. The red wool perfectly complements her hair, and the white fur trim with the fluffy pom-pom adds a festive charm. I can't help but love how it suits her so well!
Even Julian is wearing one! I never thought I'd see the day—hahaha. But then again, his love for Christmas makes it less surprising. He's a fun and silly guy once you get to know him, even if he usually hides it behind his stoic demeanor.
As for me, I'm dressed in the costume from our last big celebration—the one Julian gave me during the Luminara Kingdom festival. I've grown to really like it; there's something so elegant about it. Though, I have to admit, wearing such fancy fabric still feels a little awkward at times.
However, I am waiting for the night to begin! When, when does it start? Soon? I know that Julian is supposed to start it off but it should be around now, I mean the sun has set and everything is done. I guess I'll hear when it starts, I mean the music will start and everyone will be in the main hall. Wait? I should probably be there now, right?
Don't tell me they already started…!
Walking through the hallways, illuminated by the glow of decorations, I feel a little tickle in my stomach… It's going to start soon.
As I get closer, I hear Julian's voice echoing ahead. I think I'm a bit late, but no worries—it's the speech that will officially kick off this feast.
Pushing open the grand doors, I step into the main hall. The dazzling light momentarily blinds me as I enter, but in the distance, I spot Yumiko. Her vibrant red hair stands out—impossible to miss.
"Kaito?! Why are you so late? You missed my father's speech… Not that I really listened anyway." Yumiko's fierce yet lighthearted eyes turned toward me as she called out, her usual sharp tone carrying an undercurrent of care and bright warmth.
"Oh… oh wow." I barely manage to keep my jaw from dropping. "Yumiko…! You—you're so cute! So pretty! beautiful!"
My eyes helplessly wander, drinking in every detail. The Santa hat perched atop her head makes her look like something straight out of a Christmas dream, the red wool contrasting beautifully with her delicate, radiant features. Her cheeks are softly flushed, like she's been kissed by the winter chill—or maybe it's just how naturally adorable she is.
Then there's the outfit. That fluffy white trim… I mean, how does it manage to look so perfect? It traces her figure elegantly, from her soft, graceful shoulders to, well—oh—her chest, followed by the red fabric cascading to her waist, and all the way down to her feet. It's like she's wrapped in a cloud of festive magic.
"Honestly, Yumiko," I mutter, scratching the back of my neck as warmth rushes to my face, "I might need to sit down. You're, uh, kind of unfairly gorgeous right now." I let out a nervous chuckle, mostly to myself.
She blinks at me, her expression somewhere between disbelief and annoyance, like I've just said the most ridiculous thing in the world. With an exaggerated huff, she crosses her arms and juts out her lower lip in an adorably defiant pout.
"Hmph!" she snaps, her cheeks turning a deep shade of red. "I already know that, so quit trying to embarrass me! It's so annoying."
She says it with all the conviction of someone trying to act tough, but the blush creeping up her face gives her away completely. She's putting on a front, and it's honestly so obvious that I almost laugh. Almost. But I know better than to call her out on it—she'd only double down, and I'd probably end up on the receiving end of her wrath.
But her frustration only seems to make her even cuter. "Yeah, yeah… But I'm right," I say with a grin. "When you try to act frustrated, you're even cuter." I can't resist teasing her just a little more.
She pouts, her lips forming a perfect little "O" as she glares at me, though there's a softening to her gaze. "Shut up…" she mutters, but her voice is lighter this time—almost shy, like she's not sure if she wants to act tough or just melt at the attention. It's clear she's embarrassed, but it only makes her more endearing.
"Yes! I win!" I declare, grinning triumphantly as if I've just achieved the impossible. My victory pose is probably over the top, but I don't care—I'm riding the high.
Yumiko tilts her head, her red hair shifting slightly as she gives me a puzzled look. "Huh? What are you doing now, weirdo?" she asks, her tone caught between curiosity and mild exasperation, like she's trying to figure out what nonsense I've gotten into this time.
"No, nothing. Just accomplished something I've been building up the courage to do," I say, brushing a finger across the bridge of my nose with a smug little grin, trying to act casual despite the pride bubbling up inside me.
"Oh… uh, sometimes I really don't get you," she says, narrowing her eyes at me with a playful exasperation. Then, with a sudden burst of energy, she flashes a mischievous smirk, her eyes practically glinting. "Whatever, let's go—I want to try alcohol!"
I blink, caught off guard. "Aren't you too young? You're 16, right?"
Her smirk falters for a moment before being replaced by an indignant pout. "Too young?! What are you even talking about?! I'm 16! That's a grown-up, thank you very much!" She crosses her arms and huffs dramatically, but her excitement quickly breaks through her mock frustration. "I've been waiting for this ever since I turned 16! Do you have any idea how long that feels?"
I guess you're a proper grown up in this world when you are 16? I guess so, that means I am able to drink as well then…
"I see, my bad," I say, a teasing grin creeping onto my face. "So, you wanna drink, huh?"
She nods enthusiastically, then tilts her head with a sly smile. "Yes! But wait… are you old enough?"
"Of course I am," I reply with a smirk. "I'm 17, which makes me older than you." Even if it's only by a year or so, it still counts.
"Hmph." She huffs, crossing her arms tightly over her chest and flicking her head away from me with a sharp turn. Without another word, she strides off toward the festivities, her determination practically radiating off her.
Rolling my eyes, I trail after her, stepping deeper into the grand hall and letting its opulent atmosphere wash over me.
"—"
"This… it's bitter!" Yumiko exclaimed, her expression a mix of disgust and amusement, as if determined to take on the challenge of the alcohol head-on.
"Told you," I said with a shrug, taking a sip myself. "Though I don't see what you mean. I'd say it's pretty good." It is definitely a special flavor but I think I have gotten used to it by drinking Vine with Julian.
"No, I like it! It's not that bitter…" Yumiko declared, forcing a brave front. She took another sip, her lips twitching slightly as the taste hit her. Despite her efforts, the look on her face betrayed her true feelings—it was clear she found it disgusting.
"Aha…"
"Umi, you don't get much time off like this, do you?" I glance over at her, taking in how stunning she looks in that outfit—a red and green dress that perfectly complements her blue hair. Damn, she's cute. And that skirt… seriously, wow.
She smiles softly, her eyes drifting around the room. "No, only during special events like this. There aren't any guests around, and everything's already prepared," she says, her tone relaxed. She pauses, letting her gaze sweep over the hall. "Times like these are pretty rare and… nice. It's good to just breathe for a bit."
"Yeah, I get that. I really cherish moments like these too, and I'm so glad you could join me and Yumiko." My gaze drifts back to Yumiko… "Yumiko?"
Her cheeks are flushed bright red as she struggles valiantly to gulp down her drink, her expression a blend of stubborn determination and obvious regret.
"Huh, yeah?" Her gaze lifts from the drink, finally landing on me.
"Why are you so eager to drink? If you don't like it, you don't have to force yourself."
"Kaito! I want to drink, and I will!" she retorts, her voice laced with stubborn determination. It's as if she's decided that giving up is simply not an option, as though she's gearing up for a battle she refuses to lose—against the drink itself.
I never knew Yumiko could be like this, it's scary…
You're way too stubborn for your own good! Well, good luck—you're gonna need it." I flash her a playful wink and give her a thumbs-up, grinning like I'm rooting for a champion about to face their ultimate challenge. "Go get 'em, Yumiko!"
"Huh...? I—uh, sure, I'll win..." she mumbled, clearly thrown off by my sudden change in tone. Still, without giving it much thought, she went back to taking small sips, her face contorting with every grimace as if she were trying to conquer the drink one agonizing battle at a time.
"But on Team Blue, we have Umi! Currently in the lead—but can Yumiko catch up? We'll have to wait and see!" I announce with mock dramatic flair. A battle of drinking—who will claim victory?!
"Huh? What are you talking about, Kaito?" Umi shoots back, her eyes narrowing with a determined glint. Her expression practically screams that she's ready for the challenge, fully intent on not losing to Yumiko.
"Yeah, Umi! I won't lose to you!" Yumiko exclaims, her fiery gaze locking onto Umi. A sly smirk spreads across her face as she stretches out her hand, dramatically pointing at her rival.
Wait... what have I done? By starting this, I've launched a full-on drinking battle. Should I feel proud of myself—or concerned? Well anyway, the two seem to be enjoying it...
Meanwhile, as the two of them continue their playful contest, I take a moment to soak in the atmosphere around me. There's a warmth in the air, something that feels richer, more profound than usual. It's like I'm standing in the middle of a scene I'm not entirely sure I deserve to witness, yet one I find breathtakingly beautiful. Being here, in this grand mansion hall, celebrating Christmas with them... it's simply fantastic.
The soft glow of the firelight flickering from the hearth casts a mystical, almost otherworldly charm across the room. It mingles effortlessly with the radiant sparkle of Christmas decorations, creating a space that feels both magical and serene. The towering Christmas tree at the heart of the room stretches majestically towards the high ceiling, its ornaments glinting like tiny stars. It's stunning, no doubt, but I think the true beauty lies in the context—the fact that it's Christmas, a time meant for joy, togetherness, and gratitude.
What truly filled my heart with happiness, though, was sharing this moment with Umi and Yumiko. Watching them laugh, their faces glowing with life and energy, made the entire event so much more meaningful. Being here with them, knowing that I could be myself and enjoy these small yet precious moments, was the real gift of the evening. It was moments like these that made me fall in love with this world all over again.
"Umi..." "Yumiko..."
The two call out, arms outstretched as they stride toward each other, their movements brimming with the energy of an impending embrace.
"What the hell are they doing—hugging? Seriously?!"
Umi and Yumiko cling to each other, their arms wrapped tightly around one another as they sway unsteadily, clearly too drunk to care about how ridiculous they look. Their cheeks are flushed—whether from the alcohol or the warmth of the moment, I can't tell—but it only adds to their charm. Yumiko's fiery red hair cascades over Umi's shoulder, blending into the soft blue of Umi's locks, creating a striking contrast that I can't look away from.
The way they lean into each other, giggling like they're sharing some secret joke, makes my chest tighten. Yumiko's expression shifts between bashful and bold, her stubborn determination now softened by her intoxication. Umi, on the other hand, looks uncharacteristically carefree, her usually composed demeanor melting into a gentle smile that feels rare and precious.
Their outfits, festive and vibrant in red and green, crinkle slightly as they fumble for balance. The skirts of their dresses swish together as they adjust their stance, and for a moment, it looks like they're holding each other up as much as they're embracing.
Why... why are they actually so damn cute?!
I couldn't help but grin, caught somewhere between amusement and awe. They're a mess—a beautiful, endearing mess—and somehow, it only makes me like them even more.
"Kaaaitooo...!" they call out in unison, their voices slurred and sing-song as they stagger toward me, barely managing to stay upright. Their steps are unsteady, weaving side to side as if the ground itself were shifting beneath them.
Their faces are flushed, their expressions a mix of cluelessness and warmth, their eyes glinting with a strange combination of mischief and fondness. There's a genuine care between them as they glance at each other, their arms occasionally brushing as they struggle to keep their balance. And yet, despite their chaotic movements, there's something undeniably endearing about the way they grin at me, their smiles so unguarded and full of drunken affection.
Before I could fully process what was happening, their arms suddenly wrapped around me, pulling me off balance. With a startled yelp, the three of us tumbled backward in a chaotic heap, landing on the floor with a soft thump.
The impact wasn't harsh, but the warmth of their presence and the way we ended up tangled together left me momentarily stunned, their laughter echoing in the air.
... W—what are they doing...
"Yumiko? Umi?" I call out, my face flushed with nervous redness.
"Yeah..." the two respond in unison.
Before I can ask the two what they're doing, a voice interrupts me. My gaze shifts upward to see Julian standing nearby, a glass of wine in hand and an amused smile tugging at his lips.
"You seem to be enjoying quite the show, Kaito... Just try not to get too carried away, yeah?" Julian remarks, his tone dripping with playful mischief. A sly smirk curves his lips as he swirls the wine in his glass, his gaze lingering just long enough to drive his teasing point home. With a knowing chuckle, he turns and strides away, his air of amusement leaving a lingering impression behind him.
... Why did he have to rub that in my face... Julian!
"So... What are you two doing?"
"..."
No answer?!
Huh, they fell asleep?! "Don't mind if I just..." I mutter under my breath, trying not to disturb their peaceful slumber. Carefully, I work to untangle their arms from around me, moving inch by inch like I'm defusing a bomb. With a final, delicate maneuver, I manage to crawl out of their trap, exhaling in quiet relief.
"Uh..." I breathe in relief.
Standing there, watching over the two of them, I can't help but wonder—how? How are they so damn cute? Seriously, even while they're asleep, they look absolutely stunning. Yumiko, murmuring softly in her sleep, still exudes a charm that's impossible to ignore. And then there's Umi, with her soft, long hair cascading around her like a halo, looking like an angel even in her slumber. It's almost unreal, the differences between them. Yumiko, with her cute little drool and sleep-talk, feels so down-to-earth, while Umi radiates elegance, even while she's unconscious. Both of Here's the corrected version of the text:
They all have such unique charms—each so captivating in their own way.
I watched over the two, still tangled up though, and I couldn't help myself from smiling. Were they really sleeping? No, I thought they were half awake, half asleep and not entirely aware of the situation.
Yumiko shifted slightly in her sleep, her face scrunched up like she was trying to stifle a yawn. She blinked lazily, half-focused, clearly not ready to fully wake up. "Kaito...?" she murmured, her voice thick with sleep, but she was still holding onto that stubbornness, even in her dreams.
"Yeah?" I replied, raising an eyebrow, more curious than anything else.
She yawned, stretching her arms out like a kitten, and for a second, she was completely out of it. "I'm not... sleeping, just resting..." she mumbled, gripping Umi, trying to get closer, like she was a child wanting protection.
I glanced at her, her half-formed words pulling a quiet chuckle from me. "Not sleeping, huh? Sure looks like it." Yumiko's head dipped slightly, her grip tightening around Umi like the plush rabbit was the last anchor keeping her from drifting off completely.
Rubbing the back of my neck, I let out a breath I didn't realize I was holding and glanced over at the sofa in the corner of the room. It looked inviting—too inviting. With Yumiko's soft breathing filling the silence, I figured I'd earned a moment to rest myself.
I sank into the worn cushions, the fabric soft against my back, and let my head tilt against the edge. It was quieter here, even if only for a fleeting moment. My body felt heavier than I thought, the weight of the day pressing down harder than expected. Yumiko's quiet murmurs of "just resting" repeated in my mind, and for once, I didn't argue. Maybe I needed the same.
Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves—chattering, drinking, eating, and resting. That was exactly how a Christmas evening should be. The soft clinking of glasses mingled with gentle laughter, filling the room with a cozy warmth that complemented the crackling of the hearth in the corner. The fire's amber glow bathed the space in a soothing light, adding to the already inviting mood.
Outside, snow fell in a steady hush, flakes glittering as they drifted past the window. The soft shimmer of white blanketing the world beyond gave the scene an even greater sense of serenity, deepening the magic of Christmas night.
Across the room, Julian sat with a composed demeanor, a glass of dark red wine in hand. The faint curve of his lips and the relaxed way he leaned back suggested he was thoroughly enjoying himself.
Some tables away, Seraphina, Sophie, and Sylwen sat together, their soft voices blending into the ambient murmur of the room. I couldn't quite make out what they were saying, but I'd have loved to. Judging by their smiles, they seemed to be enjoying themselves. Seraphina and Sylwen sipped their drinks with an air of elegance, while Sophie cradled a steaming mug of hot chocolate, the warm beverage matching her brown hair. She looked cozy in her already snug outfit, wrapped in layers of red and white that brought to mind a child bundled up for the cold. Her cheeks were flushed, her small red coat draped around her shoulders like a comforting embrace.
Was everyone today this effortlessly adorable?
Seraphina, with her long white hair cascading gracefully, exuded an air of maturity that complemented her composed attire. She held her glass with quiet elegance, a subtle contrast to the carefree energy of the others. Her demeanor was more adult-like, with a certain poise that set her apart, as if she'd grown beyond childish behavior. With a gentle swirl of her wine glass, she enjoyed the more tranquil moments, her gaze distant yet thoughtful.
Sylwen sat across from Seraphina, leaning casually against the table with her elbows resting on the wood. She seemed to be the one steering the conversation, always quick to bring up new topics. Her black, almost dark brown hair was well-kept, shining with the effort she put into it, a testament to the care she took with her appearance. Yet, there was something about it that hinted at a different side of her, one I'd encountered—a more stubborn side, much like Yumiko's. Despite this, she was kind to her friends, the other maids. I hadn't spent much time with her myself, mostly because I tended to keep my distance, so I didn't really know her all that well.
They all seemed to be enjoying themselves, and just watching them brought a smile to my face. The warmth of their laughter and happiness was enough to brighten my own mood.
But then, there were these two morons—cute morons, to be fair. When the hell did they sneak onto the sofa!? Both of them were lying there beside each other. I think I caught Umi saying something like, "I'm going to take care of you forever!" And, surprisingly, Yumiko hadn't flipped a table over that yet. Guess she was too half-asleep to care—or maybe she was somehow brimming with too much energy at the same time? Honestly, I couldn't even tell anymore... Maybe the two were just that close.
Well, I didn't have much else to do here, so I might as well keep Julian company. He seemed like he might want to talk... right? I just hoped I wasn't interrupting anything. Sitting around here watching these two didn't exactly feel productive anyway.
"Hey, Umi, take care of Yumiko, alright? I'll go have a word with Julian. That okay?"
She nodded quickly in approval. "Yes, of course, Kaito. I'll take care of her..." she said softly, pulling Yumiko even closer, almost protectively.
Well... that settled it. Guess it was fine if I stepped away for a bit.
"—"
"Mind if I sit?"
"Oh, Kaito? Not at all, you're welcome to take a seat! What made you decide to join me?" he replied, his tone tinged with mild curiosity, yet still carrying that familiar, refined elegance—every word shaped by the demeanor of a truly sophisticated man.
"Well, the other two seem to have fallen asleep—or 'resting,' as Yumiko put it," I said, flicking an amused eye roll. "So I figured I'd come over here to take a break myself. It's not like sitting around watching them does any good, right?"
"Haha, yeah, they can be pretty hopeless, that's for sure..." A small chuckle escaped him before he continued. "I never knew Yumiko could be like that—it's a side of her even I haven't seen before. Well, it's amusing, wouldn't you agree? Anyway, I'm glad to have your company, Kaito."
"Hahaha... It's definitely amusing. But they can be so hopeless—I mean, they got carried away and drank way too much after I started that drinking contest as a joke. Hahaha." I shook my head with a grin. "Still, they're adorable, so I guess it's fine. They might be hopeless, but at least they have something to make up for it."
Julian smiled faintly at my words, his gaze drifting to his wine. He swirled it gently in his glass, watching the liquid coat the sides before taking a slow, measured sip. "Kaito," he began, his voice taking on that usual calm, almost scholarly tone, "there's an art to appreciating fine wine, don't you think? Each bottle is crafted with care—every note, every flavor balanced perfectly. But tell me... what do you think happens when two exceptional wines are brought together?"
I raised an eyebrow, a little thrown off by the question. "What? Mixing wines?"
He smiled faintly, tapping a finger against the glass as if teaching a lesson. "Ah, not just mixing, my friend. Blending. Any fool can pour two things together, but it takes finesse—timing, patience, understanding—to bring out the best of both. Done right, you create a combination that elevates them beyond their individual strengths."
Julian paused, his sharp eyes glancing across the room—toward Yumiko and Umi—before returning to me with a subtle smile. "You see, Kaito, wine is much like people. Sometimes, when faced with two extraordinary options, the wisest choice is not to choose at all... but to discover how they complement one another."
I blinked, processing his words as he reclined slightly, fingers still tracing the rim of his glass. "What are you trying to say here, Julian?"
His smile deepened, playful yet composed. "I'm simply saying, Kaito, that tonight is a special night. And when life presents you with something—or rather, someone—worth savoring, it would be a shame to rush things, wouldn't it? A gentleman knows when to take his time... and when to seize opportunity."
"...?"
"I have to admit, I'm not entirely sure I follow," I said with a slight shrug, my expression a mixture of curiosity and confusion. "But I'm sure there's some deeper meaning to it, right? Don't feel like you need to explain it further, though. I'll figure it out eventually."
"Thank you, Kaito. That was quite a thoughtful response," Julian said with a faint smile, his tone still composed and measured. "I recommend giving it some time to sink in. Perhaps, with a bit of reflection, you'll grasp its meaning. But for tonight, don't trouble yourself too much with it. Just enjoy the evening, all right?"
Circling his glass with a delicate motion, he lifted it slowly, observing the rich red wine as it swirled. After a quiet sip, he spoke, his voice smooth and deliberate. "Of course, I can always offer my assistance. Tonight, I shall do my utmost to support you, Kaito." He set the glass down with quiet grace, his gaze unwavering. "Now, it seems we approach the final act of the evening. Prepare yourself, Kaito—this will be a performance to remember. I would advise you to gather those sleepy heads and bring them along. It's time."
"Oh... right, I almost forgot about that. I'll go grab Yumiko and Umi then. Thanks, Sir. I'll be quick, so I don't miss the fireworks."Amused, he smiled calmly as I set off toward the two sleepy heads…
"—"
"Yumiko... Umi..." I called out, gently shaking them both.
"Just a little longer... please..." Yumiko mumbled, her voice thick with sleep.
"The firework fest starts soon... So hurry up and get up from—what, is that supposed to be comfy? No, it doesn't look comfy at all. Anyway, come on now, it's starting soon, and I'm not planning on missing it because of you two morons."
"Yumiko? Did he just call me a moron?" Umi whispered, confusion lacing her already tired tone.
"Yeah, I think so..." Yumiko replied, half-muttering.
"What does that mean?" Umi asked, rubbing her stomach as though trying to wake herself up.
"Heck if I know. Don't worry about him. He says dumb stuff all the time... but he's kinda cute when he does. Am I right? Hehe." Yumiko giggled at her own thoughts.
Cute? How much has she had? I didn't think I'd see the day. I wondered if she was okay...This didn't seem like Yumiko... Could it be someone else in disguise?
Whatever.
"Hurry up already! You don't want to miss the fireworks, do you!?"
"No... Umi, please take me there..."
"Huh? Oh... Sure, I'll take you, Yumiko," Umi replied, stretching like a lazy cat, followed by a long, drawn-out yawn.
Finally... "I'll head outside for now. You take Yumiko with you, alright?" I said, watching Umi struggle a bit as she tried her best to stay awake.
"Yes, Kaito, leave it to me..." Umi replied, her voice drowsy but determined.
"—"
"Hey, so it's starting soon, huh?" I asked, glancing at Julian as he stood beside me, his gaze fixed on the kingdom below.
"Indeed, Kaito. It shall begin any moment now," Julian replied, his gaze remaining steady on the horizon. "Tell me, where are Yumiko and Umi? I trust you intended to bring them here as well?"
"Oh, yeah, of course, Sir," I said with a quick nod. "Yumiko and Umi will be here in a bit. Umi will take care of Yumiko and bring her over."
"I see," Julian responded, giving a small nod. "Very well, then. I suppose we shall wait. Let us hope they arrive in time." They seemed to be quicker than I thought... Already here? Umi walked through the glass door with Yumiko leaning against her shoulder, barely keeping her own eyes open, letting Umi take care of her without a thought of her own intact.
"Well, looks like they made it just in time. I honestly thought they'd just fall back asleep... but I'm glad they're here. It wouldn't be the same watching the fireworks without them." I glanced over at the two half-asleep girls stumbling toward us. Julian took quiet steps, following the trail of the fence away from Umi, Yumiko, and me, leaving us three to savor this moment together. A serene sound rose into the air. At first, the high-pitched tones seemed to fade, but then, before our eyes, the once pitch-black night sky burst into a storm of vibrant purple, painting the heavens. The beauty of it dazzled our eyes with light, as if time itself slowed, each brilliant streak of color drifting down like a peaceful cascade.
But that harmony was quickly interrupted as another burst followed, and then another—each explosion of light ringing through the air, filling the sky with hues so fantastical they could belong in a fairy tale. I could stare at them for ages... Yet, the thing that captivated me most wasn't the spectacle itself, but the expressions on Yumiko's and Umi's faces. Their awe rivaled the vibrancy of the sky, and in that moment, everything felt more special. They were gorgeous, truly beautiful.
The sight of them both, the sky above and the snow gently falling, made my heart skip a beat—or maybe two. It was like a dream, too beautiful to be true, yet at the same time, I knew I was here, in this moment. And I loved it.
"It's so amazing! I think my heart might just explode!" Yumiko exclaimed, her grip tightening on Umi's shoulders as her red eyes shimmered with awe.
"I know, right, Yumiko? I can't believe my own eyes. I've never seen fireworks this beautiful before... it's just... perfect." Umi's eyes shone with the same awe as Yumiko's, completely absorbed in the dancing colors above, unaware of Yumiko's grip on her shoulder, lost in the mesmerizing scene unfolding before them.
"Yeah! It's so pretty!!!" Yumiko shouted, her jaw nearly dropping in awe. Her bright red cheeks perfectly reflected her emotions, practically glowing with excitement and joy.Watching them both, I almost forgot about the scene unfolding behind me—but that was impossible. How could I, when the entire spectacle was mirrored in their eyes?
"I agree. It's something else, something truly special..." I said, turning my gaze back to the vibrant colors in the sky, savoring their elegance as if they had a flavor of their own.
Umi and Yumiko exchanged a playful look, both smiling mischievously. Umi broke the silence, her tone teasing. "I bet you enjoy this, watching me and Yumiko." She finished with a light giggle.
"Hahaha, yeah... I'm sure our beauty is more than poor Kaito can handle," Yumiko added with a smirk, her teasing tone unmistakable.
"...Yeah... Very funny. Just watch the fireworks," I muttered, trying to dodge any more of her remarks.
"Yeah, hahaha! Says the guy who should be watching the fireworks, not get lost in us," Yumiko laughed, doubling down on the teasing.
I glanced at Umi for support. "Umi, come on, help me out here, will you?"
"I think not," Umi grinned, leaning back with amusement. "You should try not to get so flustered by what a girl says. It's actually pretty entertaining to watch you get all red and squirmy."
"I'm not flustered!" I shot back quickly. "It's just cold, okay? Why would I be nervous? Yumiko does this all the time... It's nothing new."
That part was true—she did tease me constantly. I knew she was just messing around, so why should I let it get to me?
"Oh, I do it all the time, huh?" Yumiko purred, her eyes narrowing with playful mischief. "But I bet you'll never get tired of admiring my beauty, right?"
"Yeah, definitely, that'll never get old." The words left my mouth before I could stop them.
Her teasing grin sharpened, eyes sparkling like she'd just won something. "Aha... You've got some spirit today, huh?"
I froze, realizing I'd just walked straight into that one. The edge in her voice—half-amused, half-threatening—made me wary.
What was she planning now? Don't tell me she's going to push it even further again...
"Yeah, Kaito, you like staring at me, huh?" Yumiko smirked, crossing her arms and tilting her head slightly, her expression shifting into one of mock innocence. "Well, lucky you. Today I feel extra generous, so go ahead—gawk all you want. I know you can't help yourself when it comes to this level of cuteness." She gestured to herself with an exaggerated flourish, like she was presenting a prize.
Then, she narrowed her eyes in mock suspicion, leaning in closer. "But listen, don't get carried away, okay? I know it's hard—being in the presence of perfection—but try to keep yourself in check. I wouldn't want you swooning or... doing anything weird now." Her voice lowered into a teasing sing-song, her grin all too self-satisfied.
Huh? What the hell was she even talking about? I blinked, shaking my head. I wouldn't... but... I could counter attack.
"You bet I will!" I declared, plastering on the most exaggerated face I could manage. "Can I observe every corner? Oh no—wait—this is getting embarrassing..." I mumbled, tripping over my words like a bad actor, "but... maybe I could?"
"Hahaha! Your cheeks are redder than my hair!" Yumiko burst out laughing, clearly entertained. Straightening her posture with a smug grin, she stretched her back proudly and waved a hand. "Go on, Kaito, do as you please... I'll allow it."
It was hard keeping a grin from appearing on my face but I tried to bear it. "Okay, thank you Miss, I guess, I will start observing then, let me get a good look."
She proudly fully raised her arms, and her face showed amusement. "Go on."
A brief hesitation filled me before I pushed through and reached for her armpits, giving her a playful grin. "Okay, let's start here then. Everything seems good and intact. Perfect."
"Oh... Kaito, what are you doing?" She paused, but a sly smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "But I don't mind..." Her voice was a little too sweet, the innocence in her tone clearly feigned.
I could see through her act easily. Her chin was flushed a deep red, and her eyes narrowed, probably getting ready to strike. But I knew her too well—she was far too stubborn to break the act, and she definitely wouldn't risk hitting me, even though I could feel her frustration bubbling just beneath the surface.
Following her form downwards, I could practically feel her face burning up, but for some reason, she kept up the act, pretending she wasn't embarrassed while allowing me to touch her. "Mind if I check here?" I asked, my hand drifting toward her stomach. Of course, I needed to ask—though I wouldn't deny that I was secretly hoping she'd drop the act already, so I could claim my victory.
"Okay... okay, you win this time," she exclaimed, quickly stepping back a foot, though it didn't seem like she was as frustrated as I expected. But what did she mean by this time? I won every time.
Before I could comment, Umi interrupted with a yawn, stretching as she watched us. "This time, huh? I think you both took it a bit too far. It was fun, but you saw it coming, Yumiko. Don't deny it." Umi's soft voice was paired with a giggle, making the moment feel even more playful.
"Yeah, yeah, whatever... But, wait, where did the fireworks go?" Yumiko suddenly looked around, scanning the sky. "They're gone!"
"Well, they weren't going to last forever," Umi replied, her tone amused but tinged with concern. "And you two babbled through the whole thing. It's over now."
"Damn! Already? Why didn't you tell us earlier?" Yumiko muttered, glancing around in disbelief. Then, with a shrug, her grin returned. "Eh, no point in arguing about it now. Let's go get more drinks! That alcohol's calling for round two!" A mischievous smile crept across her face, like she'd been waiting for this moment—ready to face off against the alcohol again.
"Yumiko, I'm in. Let's show that alcohol who's boss," Umi announced, a confident grin on her face. With that, they wandered off, making their way through the terrace toward the glass door leading into the main hall... Leaving me standing here alone...
Why the hell did they think it was a good idea to keep on drinking!? Even I knew better, though I guessed anyone would know better than those two morons.
"—"
Well... Umi and Yumiko went at it again, but why did I have to babysit these two!?
"Umi, Yumiko, don't you two think it's getting time to stop? It's getting late." Only Julian and a couple others were still here, and I had better stop these two before they collapsed.
"Ah... But, c-come on, Kaito... just a little more," Yumiko said desperately, slipping across her words. Yeah, that was the sign that she had way too much, and this was her first time drinking, was it not?
"Yeah, what she said. Let's have one more at... least," Umi hiccupped, barely able to stand as she leaned heavily against the table. Her voice was sharp and teasing, but the way her words slurred told me she was no better off than Yumiko.
"No, just head to sleep already."
"Ugh, you're no fun, Kaito," they both whined in perfect sync, shooting me exaggerated puppy-dog eyes that might've worked if I wasn't already too used to this nonsense.
"No fun, huh?" I retorted, raising an eyebrow. "You two are barely standing. Trust me, I'm doing you both a favor."
"Yeah, yeah..." Yumiko muttered, rolling her eyes as she tried to wave me off, though her hand wobbled so much it looked like she was swatting at a ghost.
I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Alright, if you two aren't going to listen, I'll just have to drag you to bed myself."
"What?!" Yumiko gasped, clutching her chest like I'd just threatened her honor. "K-Kaito, you can't just drag us off like we're bags of rice!"
Umi, leaning against the table for support, snickered. "Actually, I'd pay to see that. Go ahead, Kaito. Let's see you try."
Damn these idiots... I was lucky this wasn't the first time. I think my past self wouldn't have had the spirit to actually do it. But damn now, these two had gotten on my nerves way too many times, so I didn't mind dragging them.
"Oh, I'll do it," I threatened, stepping forward.
"—"
A few minutes later, I'd finally managed to drag Yumiko and Umi back to their shared room. It was better for them to stay together—at least Umi could keep an eye on Yumiko. Not that either of them seemed particularly concerned about their current state.
The journey was chaotic, to say the least. Yumiko kept tripping every few steps, clutching at me dramatically like I was her savior, while Umi couldn't stop giggling at absolutely nothing. But hey, we made it. Mission accomplished... kind of.
"Alright," I said, exhaling sharply as I pointed to the bed like a parent scolding their kids. "Get changed, then get some sleep. I'll be gone once you're settled."
Yumiko leaned heavily against the bedpost, glaring at me with an exaggerated pout. "You're so bossy, Kaito. What are you, our babysitter or something?"
"Babysitter? Nah, you two are way worse than kids," I retorted, crossing my arms. "Now hurry up. I'd like to get some sleep myself, preferably in my own bed."
"Fine," Yumiko grumbled, rolling her eyes as she pushed herself upright, though she swayed slightly on her feet. "We'll change... but don't you dare peek, or I'll—"
"Yeah, yeah, I know," I cut her off, already turning around to face the door. "Just let me know when you're done so I can leave in peace."
Behind me, I heard the rustle of fabric as they started changing. Umi's soft, teasing voice chimed in, her tone light and amused. "Kaito, you're so obedient. Are you scared of us or something?"
"Scared? Hardly," I replied dryly. "I'm just trying to keep my sanity intact."
A moment later, Yumiko's voice cut through, sharper now. "Alright, done. You can look now, your highness."
I turned back around—and immediately felt like I'd walked straight into some kind of setup. Both Yumiko and Umi were dressed in flowing white nightdresses, simple but undeniably elegant. The fabric draped lightly over their forms, almost glowing in the dim light of the room. It was the kind of outfit that was supposed to be modest, but on them? Yeah, modest was not the word I'd use.
Yumiko, of course, struck a dramatic pose, one hand on her hip and her chin tilted up like she was posing for a magazine cover. "Well?" she smirked, her voice full of challenge. "What'd I tell you? Bet you're feeling lucky to be here now."
I let out a short laugh, shaking my head. "You look so adorable that I might try something. Guess it's better if I leave now, huh?"
For a split second, Yumiko's smirk faltered, her eyes widening ever so slightly. But she quickly recovered, stepping forward and jabbing her finger into my chest. "Yeah, if. But even if you did, maybe I'd let you..." she said, her tone defiant yet teasing. There was a faint blush creeping up her neck, though she was glaring at me as if daring me to react.
I blinked, caught off guard for a moment before raising an eyebrow. "Wow, you're even more drunk than I thought. You'd be mortified by that line in the morning."
"Shut up, Kaito," she snapped, crossing her arms tightly, though her cheeks only reddened further. "You're the one who brought it up in the first place. Hmph!"
"Fair enough," I shrugged, letting it slide.
From the bed, Umi burst into laughter, her voice muffled slightly as she propped her chin on her hand. "Yumiko, you're so bad at this. You can't even fluster him properly!"
"I wasn't trying to fluster him," Yumiko fired back, her blush deepening. "I was just... making a point."
"Sure, sure," Umi said, waving her hand dismissively, her grin widening. "Anyway, Kaito, aren't you going to stay? You can't just ditch us now."
"Why not? You're both dressed and clearly fine. My work here is done," I replied, already turning toward the door.
"No, wait!" Yumiko blurted out, grabbing my sleeve to stop me. "What if... I don't know, a ghost attacks us or something? You can't just leave, Kaito. That's not right—it's like a rule or something."
"A ghost?" I repeated, incredulous. "Come on, Yumiko. You can do better than that."
"She's right," Umi chimed in, her voice muffled as her face planted into the pillow. "You can't leave us, Kaito. We might... need you or something."
I sighed, rubbing the bridge of my nose. "You two are ridiculous."
"Maybe," Yumiko said, crossing her arms stubbornly, "but you're still staying. No arguments."
"Fine," I relented, sitting down on the edge of the bed. "But only until you fall asleep. Then I'm out of here."
"See? Knew you couldn't resist," Yumiko said triumphantly, flopping onto the bed beside Umi with a satisfied grin.
Time passed, and the room grew quieter. Umi murmured something unintelligible in her sleep, her breathing soft and steady. Yumiko, meanwhile, had sprawled out in the most obnoxious position imaginable—one knee digging into my stomach while her other leg was halfway off the bed. She took up half the space, and I couldn't move without risking waking her.
"Why me..." I muttered under my breath, staring at the ceiling. Yumiko might be scarier drunk than she was sober, and that was saying something.
I glanced down at the two of them—Yumiko's stubbornness still visible even in sleep, and Umi looking completely at peace. Despite my frustration, a small smile tugged at my lips. These two... They were a nightmare.
"DAMN THIS!!!"