67 - Ayaka Tojo's Love⑤

RAW

"Hot springs during camping are the best~!"

"Campfires are fun, but they leave such a strong smell."

While Saki stretches out in the hot spring, I scoop some water in my hands and pour it over my shoulders. The large bathhouse is spacious and open, creating a soothing atmosphere that feels incredibly relaxing. Saki seems completely at ease, stretching her arms and legs underwater.

"I'm full, the hot spring feels amazing, and I feel so happy right now!"

Facing her, Mama smiles gently at Saki, who is floating in a relaxed state.

"Saki-chan, you bring such lively energy. I really enjoy it."

"Thank you so much for inviting me today! Your paella was absolutely delicious, Ikue Mama!"

"Oh, thank you."

Mama smiles warmly, placing a hand on her cheek, pleased by Saki's words.

"I’ve been relying on Otsuki-kun's cooking a lot lately. I need to keep my skills sharp."

"Yeah, there's always at least one dish Haruto-kun prepares ahead for breakfast, right?"

Since Haruto started coming to help with household chores, our family meals have become more plentiful and luxurious. Mama used to cook, but balancing work and cooking was tough, and we often resorted to instant meals or delivery. Now, thanks to Haruto's delicious and healthy pre-made dishes in the fridge, we eat so much better.

"Remember the carrot rapée Haruto made? It was so good."

The mix of carrot flavor, crunchy texture, mustard tang, and honey sweetness was so addictive that even Ryota, who doesn’t like carrots, devoured it instantly.

"Yes, it was beautiful and delicious. I also loved the beef and glass noodle japchae."

"Absolutely! Haruto's japchae is amazing!"

I nod enthusiastically at Mama's comment. Saki laughs, watching us.

"Otsuki-kun really has the Tojo family wrapped around his finger."

"You ate his dishes during the BBQ, right? Delicious, weren’t they?"

"Yeah, they were. But afterward, Ayaka declared, ‘Haruto-kun is mine.’"

"I-I didn’t say it that clearly…!"

"Oh? Ayaka-san, your face is turning red."

"It’s just the hot spring improving my circulation!"

I turn away from Saki’s teasing gaze, and Mama chimes in with a playful smile.

"Ayaka, you need to win over Haruto-kun this summer. The thought of losing his pre-made meals keeps me up at night."

She hugs her shoulders and shivers dramatically.

"Ikue Mama, you're already addicted."

"Saki-chan, it's not just his cooking. He’s also great at cleaning and playing with Ryota. Any future son-in-law needs to meet Haruto-kun's standard."

"Wow, Ayaka’s future husband standards just skyrocketed!"

"Stop making wild stories, both of you!"

Mama’s talking about him as a son-in-law, but we aren’t even dating. I want to start by officially being his girlfriend first!

"Honestly... how much do you all like Haruto-kun?"

"Enough to want him in our family immediately. Besides, don’t you like him too, Ayaka?"

"Uh... well... yes, I do."

I feel my face heating up. I hadn’t hidden my feelings from Mama, but hearing it said aloud is still embarrassing.

"If Haruto-kun had pressured you or made you uncomfortable, I’d have ended our contract. But since you like him, there's no reason to resist. It’s perfect: my daughter’s happiness and a wonderful young man. Win-win for me."

Mama’s gentle smile makes me even more embarrassed. I sink into the hot water to hide my face, and Saki pipes up.

"Any sign Haruto might confess soon? Ready to end the fake relationship?"

"I… I think I’ve been giving clear signals, but..."

Mama’s eyes sparkle with curiosity.

"Wait, what fake relationship?"

Saki looks at me, surprised.

"You didn’t tell Ikue Mama?"

"It was too embarrassing to bring up..."

After explaining our fake relationship (without mentioning his family’s situation), Mama’s eyes light up.

"Oh, my! Ayaka, you’ve blossomed. Don’t tell your dad, though."

"Please keep it a secret!"

"Understood. But, as Saki said, can you win him over?"

"I hope so…"

Saki grins. "Haruto definitely likes you. You just need the right moment."

"Like taking him to a chapel?" she jokes.

"That's beyond confession—that's a wedding!"

"But you’d want to stay by his side, right?"

"... I would."

"See? So cute."

"Stop teasing me!"

I splash water at Saki, who laughs. Mama suddenly remembers, "Isn't there a fireworks festival next week?"

Saki gets excited. "Perfect event for a confession!"

"I hope he invites me first..."

"Typical Ayaka, waiting for a fairytale."

Mama adds, "That day, Ryota’s at an overnight camp. The house will be empty…"

"Don't say it like that!"

"Half-joking," she winks.

"Half serious?!"

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Ayaka's determination regarding Haruto: "W-We have to take things in the right order!"