Chapter 34: One Step Away from Falling as a Witch

Reading Settings

Kurebayashi-san’s face twisted for a moment when she heard my words.

“….I’m sorry,” she said, but despite her apology, she seemed determined not to let any tears fall, clenching the corners of her eyes.

“….I know I can’t erase what I’ve done, and I can’t take it back. I understand that forgiveness won’t come easily. But I don’t want to spend my entire life regretting my foolishness.”

“…”

“I want to sincerely apologize to those I’ve hurt and make amends until I’m forgiven. I want to repair the trust I’ve broken, even if just a little. But I understand that these are selfish desires.”

“…”

“So, I don’t mind if I’m not rewarded. It’s something I want to do for myself. But if you, Yuuta-kun, could forgive me, I promise I would never betray you again.”

Honestly, being caught up in Kurebayashi-san’s mess was the last thing I wanted. I quickly interrupted.

“Hold on a second. Can you think about how much trouble this is for me? Frankly, there’s a greater chance I’ll start seeing someone else before I forgive you.”

“If that happens, that’s fine. As long as Yuuta-kun is happy. But until then, I won’t let any other man capture my heart.”

This is hopeless. I decided to give up on pursuing this any further. Her resolve was unwavering.

“I never realized how much it would shock me to hear you say you wanted nothing to do with me. So, I’ve decided to abandon my naive thoughts and prepare myself.”

I was baffled by this unexpected turn of events.

I understood that Kurebayashi-san was driven by her sense of guilt. But the negative energy from her previous groveling apology seemed to have transformed into a backward kind of positivity.

However, if I didn’t consider my own convenience, that is.

My feelings hadn’t changed much; I had no intention of getting involved with Kurebayashi-san again. Honestly, her insistence was just a major headache for me. But somehow, her intensity was throwing off my judgment.

“I have one condition.”

“W-what is it? If it’s something I can do, I’ll do anything Yuuta-kun wants.”

“Consider my convenience, at least. Don’t force your altruism on me.”

“…What?”

“No matter what you think or do, it’s your choice. But if it’s something I don’t want, please don’t involve me. Take your apology, for instance—I ended up worrying unnecessarily and taking actions I didn’t want to. I’d much prefer if you just lived your life without involving me.”

“… Did you really worry about me?”

That’s what you're focusing on?

“Of course. No matter how much trust has been broken, I don’t want you to die or anything.”

Oh. That probably came out wrong. Kurebayashi-san’s eyes started to water again, but not from sadness.

“I’m happy… Just hearing that, I feel like I can do anything for you, Yuuta-kun.”

“No, I mean, consider my convenience.”

“You can use me however you want, Yuuta-kun. If that’s what you want, I don’t mind being your fling. You can discard me when you’re done.”

“Are you kidding me?!”

“Eek!”

“Do you think I’m that irresponsible?!”

“I’m s-sorry.”

“And what’s this about being okay with being discarded? Value yourself more! Your mother would be heartbroken!”

It’s not that I wouldn't consider such a thing, but definitely not with her. Besides, Kurebayashi's mom wouldn't forgive anyone who toyed with her daughter. It’s a double no-go for me.

“…”

“Got it? Then let’s end this conversation here. Thanks for the lunch.”

This was my way of signaling that I had no intention of continuing this messy conversation any further.

I had finished my lunch, so it was time to leave. But just as I was about to get up, she asked me one last thing.

“Can I make you lunch again?”

“Hmm?”

I hesitated, weighing the potential hassle. But my financial situation won over my reservations. Money is heavier than life, after all.

“Until my next allowance arrives, it’s fine.”

“Great! I’ll do my best to make it every day.”

“There is no need to go overboard. Anyway, see you.”

“Thanks again for today.”

“…You’re welcome.”

I stood up and slowly walked away, but I could hear her mumbling to herself.

“Why did I betray someone who cares about me so much? I’m so stupid.”

Come on, Kurebayashi-san. How many times are you going to regret the same thing? If you’re that burdened with guilt, at least don’t let me hear it. Also, I’m not some saint. Don’t make me out to be one just because Okutsu turned out to be a jerk.

Considering the current situation and Kurebayashi's mom, things have turned out this way. But why do I feel like I’ve messed up somehow?

My only hope now is for a mixer.