Evil Girl Chapter ２２
The red team’s stickiness triumphed in the cavalry battle. There were many whom were defeated by Mikoshiba-kun from the yellow team, slowly having their forces whittled till they lost.
The next competition is the third year’s cavalry battle. Although I wanted to see it, after the third years were guided away till deployment, as for the sake of the next competition being the three legged race, there was no choice but to move. (SK: I dont get why this author chose to stick all those long phrases into a sentence -headdesk-)
“Ah, it’s the bread eating girl”
When she heard the third year student, she lightly nods her head in response. People after people called her “bread eating competition girl” and also “the carried girl“, and lastly,
“If it isn’t the princess!”
I wonder what kind of meaning does princess have?
The participants of the three legged race are heading towards the meeting point. There were already pairs whom have met up but some were late because they wanted to watch the cavalry battle.
“Let’s do our best”
Even though I just participated in the cavalry battle earlier, it is so busy that I already have to participate in the next competition.
“Let’s do our best!”
“Oー, isn’t it Tanaka. That princess carry just now was so coolll. It was as if a prince has appeared”
The boys from another class were cackling with laughter. Oo, praising Tanaka-kun for being cool. That’s right, at that time Tanaka-kun was very cool.
“If it was me, I wouldn’t do such an embarrassing thing, right”
“Really. No―Tanaka-ouji is amazinggg”
“I fell in love didn’ttt I?”
People cackling with laughter were there, putting the spotlight on Tanaka-kun. Tanaka-kun was hiding his eyebrows in dissatisfaction but, why is he showing such a face despite being praised?
“…… Sorry, Shinozuka-san. For letting you experience this embarrassment.”
“Eh? I don’t think that it is embarrassing though? Tanaka-kun is happy being praised”
“Eh?”
Raising his face which was looking down, his face that became surprised looked at me.
“But it really looked as he was a prince. He immediately rushed to my side and carried me, it was very cool.”
“Shinozuka-san……”
“You were also very cool during the cavalry battle! Stealing that Mikoshiba-kun’s headband was amazing! I was so impressed that I was clapping my hands throughout”
When I remember the role that Tanaka-kun played at that time, my excitement heats up again. Even it looked like he was falling down, he had the guys to not let go of the headband. It was too amazing!
“Certainly that was amazinggg”
“It was thanks to Tanaka that the blue team won afterall”
Everyone in the class is praising Tanaka.
“No, that was because another guy distracted Mikoshiba so I could take his headband. I couldn’t have won by myself”
“You owe it to my role of bait”
“I-i-idiot. Weren’t you instantly defeated by Mikoshiba?”
The heavy atmosphere became light, and they were laughing together. It seems that everyone became united.
Tanaka-kun hid his face with the back of his hand.
“Thank you, Shinozuka-san. I will do my best too”
Although I am not sure how to convey my gratitude, I am glad that he seems happy. Like Tanaka-kun, I will try harder too.
The third year’s cavalry battle seems to be an intense fight, but the me that couldn’t see much due to the distance, spotted a girl taking a video afterwards.
Ichinose-senpai was precisely giving instructions. (SK: Senpai notice me!-not) At times he would command aggressiveness, and when needed, he would properly order for defence. If times were better, he could be a military strategist. It ended up being an one-on-one with the blue team’s general. The general is slightly larger than Ichinose-senpai, with movement not inferior to him. When an opening was found, the headband was snatched and the yellow team ended victorious. Ichinose-senpai was so cool.
And the last event which I can finally participate in, the 3 legged race.
《The next competition is the 3 legged race. You guys, don’t even try to take advantage of the confusion to touch weird places.》
Lining up in order, it starts with 3 pairs at a time. Everyone began running awkwardly, while stumbling and struggling with the towel that was tied to their feet.
“Hey, don’t touch me in weird places!”
“It can’t be helped right, it’s a competition!”
It seems that the broadcasting chief-san was not conscious of his words, and it seems like they are arguing. This is a chance!
“Let’s do our best and get number 1, Tanaka-kun!”
“Eh, ah, un.”
A-re, is he too nervous? Tanaka-kun’s expression is stiff.
Wrapping our ankles with the towel, we wait for the previous pair before we start running. The people whom were praising Tanaka-kun earlier are sending their cheers.
“Do your best Tanaka-ouji! I look forward to what cool things you’ll do this time round!”
That boy is cackling with laughter again and the surrounding boys are grinning broadly, it feels somewhat unpleasant. They might not even be supporting us.
“Do not mind it Tanaka-kun!”
“Ye, yes, that’s right. Such guys don’t matter. . . . What if I touch you in a strange place? I might get hated. . . ”
Muttering to himself with the same stiff expression. I have to calm his nervousness but, I don’t even know what should I do.
Ah, thats right!
“Tanaka-kun Tanaka-kun, please look here”
“Eh? Tte, Shinozuka-san!?”
When Yuya-kun got mad during the borrowing competition, his face when he was laughing for the brief moment. Using my hands to push in both cheeks to make the octopus face, Tanaka-kun opened his eyes wide surprised.
“How is it? Are you able to relax?”
“…..fufu, hahahahaha. Shinozuka-san, you are weird.”
He holds his sides and bursts into laughter. The tension seemed to have eased, good good.
“Thank you Shinozuka-san. I kept getting helped by you”
“That is my line. I have always been saved by you. Let’s do our best for the three legged race. I am reassured to be with you, Tanaka-kun”
“……un, let’s do our best.”
Standing at the starting line, I grasped Tanaka-kun’s shoulder and faced ahead. With the pistol’s signal, our legs stretched forward. Usually, I would be stunned by the pistol sound, but without a sense of strangeness or unrest, I was able to run. This might just be thanks to Tanaka-kun.
“One two, one two”
Although we are running well, other pairs are running while matching their breathing and we are currently second. When approaching the curve, the people running at the front stopped because their towel came off. This is my chance!
“Now Tanaka-kun!”
“Yes, I will pick up the pace!”
We overtook the first place pair! At this rate, we will reach the goal! And the hasty me, made a mistake in my timing to step forward with my foot.
“Be careful!”
Tanaka-kun, whom supported me before when I was about to collapse, placed his hands under my chest and lifted me so that I did not fall.
Thanks to that, I did not fall down but, we were overtaken by the gap made.
“Sorry, Tanaka-kun!”
“…… Eh, un”
I wonder if he is angry?
The shouts stopped, but Tanaka-kun became silent.
We tried to catch up but failed to do so, reaching the goal in 2nd.
“Haa, haa…… I’m sorry. If only at that time I wasn’t about to fall……”
“…… It was soft”
“Eh?”
Tanaka-kun’s face became entirely red, in a daze where my voice won’t reach him. Waving and clapping my hands in front of him, our eyes finally met.
“Ah, it’s not what you think! I didn’t do it on purpose, that was an emergency”
“What are you talking about?”
The suddenly panicked Tanaka-kun tilted his head, when I apologised because of my fall and we were overtook and,
“You do not have to worry about it. It is good that you didn’t fall and sustain injuries…… that is, I am sorry.”
“Why is Tanaka-kun apologizing?”
“Eh!? Tha, That… that is”
He stutters and doesn’t make sense. What is it I wonder, Tanaka-kun whom has been showing strange behaviours since a while ago is completely white. In the end, without knowing why he apologised, the three legged race ended.
“Shinozuka-san”
“Yes?”
“Watch the next relay. With Shinozuka-san’s presence, I will be filled with courage”
“Yes! Of course! I will cheer for you.”
Since all the competitions that I am taking part of are over, I have to do some student council work. This afternoon we have to calculate the scores from this afternoon’s competition, today is day 1 so it is easy to summarize today’s problems for the next year, I should be able to support you while you work even if I am sitting down.
《This year’s sports festival is also reaching the last event. The sports festival flower shaped competition, the mixed gender, mixed grade relay!! Whether you like it or not, this is the last. Challenge it with all your strength!!》
Firstly, the girls would run. Amongst the gathered group, Mamiya-senpai was there.
“Mamiya-senpai, please do your best!”
I raised my voice from the tent to cheer for her and, Mamiya-senpai waved her hand when she noticed me.
It is the enemy team but I may support it. I can see the place where Mamiya-senpai is running.
2 students per grade at a time, turn at the halfway point and finally the anchor makes a lap. Everyone seems to be fast, I feel excited even though I am not a runner.
As the first years stands on the starting line, the teacher with a starting pistol raises an arm and the first graders began to run at the same time as the bang. The yellow team is cheering with all their strength while Yamamoto-san, whom seats in front of me, gets the baton.
“Do your best Yamamoto-san!”
Work was left halfway because I got too absorbed, and the baton was passed to the last anchor. The red team’s anchor is Mamiya-senpai. A person from the yellow team is toe to toe with her. It is hard to cheer!
Mamiya-senpai who usually acts like a Yamato Nadeshiko, is running desperately. It’s the former Mamiya-senpai.
《The anchors from red and yellow team are toe to toe! The red team’s anchor is our school’s pride, the Yamato Nadeshiko of the rumours, Mamiya Sakurako! The yellow team’s anchor is the girls basketball club’s ace, Higuchi Madoka! So, just who will grasp the glory of the winner! 》
“Do your best, Do your best-!”
Mamiya-senpai!
While I couldn’t say it, I shouted it in my heart. As for whether my wish went through, Mamiya-senpai had overtaken the yellow team and broken the goal tape.
Cheers cried out, and the Mamiya-senpai who had became sweaty, patted my head at the tent in front of the goal.
“Thank you, Aika”
Mamiya-senpai, was smiling so wide that you could see her sparkling white teeth, and everyone was unable to pull their gaze away from her. Mamiya-senpai is so cool! Even though she’s a girl, she’s so cool!
《The girl’s relay ended with the red team’s win. The last event is the battle of miserable bastards. You guys, better not show us a miserable run!》
The president of the broadcasting club is great. Being able to keep talking all the way from this morning. Not even worried that their voice might not work tomorrow.
The first year boys start running. In the lead was the blue team.
It is prohibited for members of the track-and-field club to come out for this relay race, so people from other athletic departments will come out instead. A few years ago, it seems that people from the track-and-field club came out and it was an entirely one-sided match. That’s why the track-and-field’s Mayu-chan didn’t come out.
And finally the baton is given to the second years. Its Tanaka-kun’s turn!
“Tanaka-kunTanaka-kunTanaka-kuun!”
I cheered in a loud voice which feels like my throat is withering. Pulling ahead of the blue team, I jumped and jumped again for joy.
The baton was successfully passed onto the next member, however, the next member was pretty bad. Yep, it was normal for someone like that to appear.
“UooOOOOO!”
Running with a roar was the blue team’s Mikoshiba-kun. I get the feeling that he has already surpassed the limits of human ability.
《Just like that, Mikoshiba overtakes the yellow team, and the distance between them widens. Is there anyone left who can overtake this guy！？》
The baton was passed to the third year. The anchor for yellow team is Ichinose-senpai. He is steadily chasing after the blue team. By the time half of the track has been completed, that much distance has been opened. Amazing…… Ichinose-senpai is amazing!
“Ichinose-senpai wins!”
Of course all around me are the girls, and the boys who are raising their voices, while making a loud racket.
I don’t care if my throat is crushed. Even if I won’t be able to speak tomorrow. Please reach Ichinose-senpai, even if it’s a little, I want to be his strength!
《Ichinose approaches! Iwaki runs away! Kawachi is running after the 2 people! This is a suitable fight for the end of the sports festival! Who would be the winner!!》
Just before the goal, finally, Ichinose-senpai had managed to match up with the blue team’s anchor! I almost forgot to breathe, as I watched Ichinose-senpai’s hand take hold of it. (baton?)
God-san, Buddha-san and Angel-san! Please let Ichinose-senpai win! (SK: The ritual to summon a god)
And the match,
《GOOOALL! The winner is Ichinose Kazukiii!! With a difference of one step, he defeated the blue team and obtained a close victoryyy! What the heck, you are too good!》
I was so touched that I can’t see what is before me. Endlessly wiping my overflowing tears, I cried out aloud.
Even now the sounds of cheering and support haven’t stopped. The cheerleaders shouting for Ichinose-senpai. At that time, I felt a warm hand pat me gently on the head.
“You cry too much”
The relay is over, Ichinose-senpai returned to the officer’s tent, he wiped his face with a towel while laughing wryly on his seat.
“You’ll dirty your towel. I’ll wipe it with my own towel”
「It’s fine. Honestly, your nose is leaking like a kindergartner’s.」
Ichinose-senpai’s laugh is interesting, his face turns pale everytime he wipes his nose.
Hiiii~, Ichinose-senpai’s towel has gotten dirty from my runny nose!
“I will wash and return it!”
“Don’t mind it”
“I will mind! I will definitely, definitely wash and return the towel!”
Taking the towel off Ichinose-senpai’s hand, I tried to glare as though intimidating but I end up smiling instead.
“I heard it.”
“Eh?”
“Aika’s encouragement. I was able to win because I heard it, I was able to take another step forward because of that encouragement.”
My voice, it had reached after all.
“However it wasn’t just me, the others were cheering also, and you senpai all did your best!”
“Yes, I will work hard. Everyone was cheering, Aika’s voice was pushed back towards the end. Thanks, Aika.”
Mamiya-senpai gently stroked my head and smiled. The tears which had stopped were overflowing again, and the towel I borrowed from Ichinose-senpai was already soaked.
“Crybaby”
“But but I am happy. I am happy that I am able to be of assistance to senpai.”
“Un”
“Everyone worked hard and, running their best and everything, everything made me happy. I never thought that humans can feel this moved……”
“……un”
“I, I am glad to be born.”
“Haha, that’s exaggerated.”
I isn’t an exaggeration.
I didn’t give up even before when I despaired of my illness, I worked hard on surgery and endured the side effects of drugs, I desperately desperately desperately fought for life, now I am here.
My real body has already disappeared however, my existence is now as Aika-chan.
Thank you, angel-san.
Aika-chan. I still don’t understand why did you choose to die. I can’t understand how hard it must have been to worry about that so much. Therefore, I will preciously live the life that she has thrown away. This can just be my repayment to Aika-chan.
“……Aika”
I cannot stop crying, Ichinose-senpai has been stroking my head all the time.
“………..”
“If my cute junior is crying, you know that I would have to comfort them. There are also bad parts from Kazuki.”
“………….”
“I don’t mind it. Because the one Kazuki likes is Sakurako.”
“…Don’t change.”
“Nn?”
“Even though no memories remain, the true essence of Aika is unchanged. It’s straightforward and beautiful. For me to like such an Aika… was scary. ”
The winners were the blue team. While the yellow team came in second place, I was quite satisfied.
To remember the sports festival by, I took a photo with everyone from class, everyone in the student council and Mayu-chan et al, with sensei as well. There is so much memories that I can’t help but smile.
After I finish cleaning up after the sports festival, I will return together with Mayu-chan.
“Well, this year was a pretty exciting one. Though, it was mostly thanks to the student council president.”
”Righttt. When the president appeared, the cheering female voices was amazing”
The sunset colors the sky. On the way 3 people are walking side by side, the long shadows are holding hands.
“It was very fun. Let’s do our best next year too!”
“I hope that i’ll be in the same class next year.”
“Ah, that is good. If Aika-chan is in the same class, everyday will be fun”
“I, I would like to be on the same class too!”
It was a very tiring first day, I worked my best with a sense of accomplishment, I was smiling all the way home.
I wish next year I would be in the same class as Mayu-chan and the others. Then, eat lunch and study ,it would be a more enjoyable school life,
When I arrived at the house mother was there to greet me, with complaints.
“W-What’s with your uniform!? It’s completely messed up!”
My gym uniform became dirty because of the tug-of-war, and my surprised mother panics upon seeing my bruised elbows and knees.
“Why do you have to worry me so… wha!? What’s with that bruise!”
“I have been dragged into a tug of war.”
Laughing as I was talking, Yuuya-kun’s thunder struck on me.
“Idiot! I let you out of my sight for just a moment, and you get injured! Hurry and get in the bath and clean that up already!”
I am forcefully dragged along to take a shower.
Uuu It stings as the water soaks into the wound. However this wound remains as evidence that I stood up and gave it my very best.
After having a shower, what was waiting for me was a warm meal and,
“Do it yourself”
Yuuya-kun brought the first-aid kit to me. Though I knew about bandages and antiseptic, I had never had a chance to use them on myself. There was always someone by my side to do it for me. I wonder, how much disinfectant should I use?
“…really, just hand it over.”
The disinfectant is snatched out of my hands, the cotton absorbs it and is pressed lightly against my wound. Seeing as how I had washed them all, disinfectant was applied to all of my wounds.
“Ah, I had come in first place in the bread-eating concest. It was all thanks to my practicing with Yuuya-kun.”
“Well then, good for you.”
“Huh? What did you just say?”
I take a peek at the face of my mother who is busy making rice. Ah, I have to tell mother about it also!
“Listen to this, mother. Yuuya-kun came to watch the sports festival today!”
“Hmph, Idiot!”
“Eh? You mean Yuuya?”
Being stared at by mother, Yuuya-kun seems to be in a bit of a panic.
“It’s not like that! I just sort of… happened… to be passing along in that neighborhood.”
“…and so because he happened to be passing by, he was able to see me? Right, Yuuya?”
“Yeah, that’s why.”
What exactly is making you so panicky?
“Also, when it came to the borrowed item event, I was carried on his shoulders and was able to take first place! Yuuya-kun is really, really fast!”
“Eh!?”
“You better shut up already!”
I close my mouth and don’t speak, and mother warmly laughs at us.
“Fufu, I would have liked to see that scene. Now then, shall we have some rice?”
“…tch.”
Unpleasant face-making Yuuya-kun. I wonder what wrong things did I say? I just praised you, you know? Ah, I see!
“Yuuya-kun, here!”
“Hmm?”
“This is the bread I had to eat from the bread eating contest. Since I won because of Yuuya-kun, I will let you have it. ”
“Who wants it!”
Oops, I made him angrier. Since it can’t be helped, I’ll eat it tomorrow morning. Alhough rice is good, toast is also good as well.
Mother had specially made a hamburger steak. I helped to set the table, and during dinner I talked excitedly about the sports festival.
Although I probably annoyed him, Yuuya-kun still listened. Mother also happily listened. This one day alone was so very enjoyable.
I decided to make the memories I had of today the treasure of my life.
“Yuuya-kun, thanks for lending me your back…”
“I don’t wanna hear it!”
Evil Girl Chapter ２２
The red team’s stickiness triumphed in the cavalry battle. There were many whom were defeated by Mikoshiba-kun from the yellow team, slowly having their forces whittled till they lost.
The next competition is the third year’s cavalry battle. Although I wanted to see it, after the third years were guided away till deployment, as for the sake of the next competition being the three legged race, there was no choice but to move. (SK: I dont get why this author chose to stick all those long phrases into a sentence -headdesk-)
“Ah, it’s the bread eating girl”
When she heard the third year student, she lightly nods her head in response. People after people called her “bread eating competition girl” and also “the carried girl“, and lastly,
“If it isn’t the princess!”
I wonder what kind of meaning does princess have?
The participants of the three legged race are heading towards the meeting point. There were already pairs whom have met up but some were late because they wanted to watch the cavalry battle.
“Let’s do our best”
Even though I just participated in the cavalry battle earlier, it is so busy that I already have to participate in the next competition.
“Let’s do our best!”
“Oー, isn’t it Tanaka. That princess carry just now was so coolll. It was as if a prince has appeared”
The boys from another class were cackling with laughter. Oo, praising Tanaka-kun for being cool. That’s right, at that time Tanaka-kun was very cool.
“If it was me, I wouldn’t do such an embarrassing thing, right”
“Really. No―Tanaka-ouji is amazinggg”
“I fell in love didn’ttt I?”
People cackling with laughter were there, putting the spotlight on Tanaka-kun. Tanaka-kun was hiding his eyebrows in dissatisfaction but, why is he showing such a face despite being praised?
“…… Sorry, Shinozuka-san. For letting you experience this embarrassment.”
“Eh? I don’t think that it is embarrassing though? Tanaka-kun is happy being praised”
“Eh?”
Raising his face which was looking down, his face that became surprised looked at me.
“But it really looked as he was a prince. He immediately rushed to my side and carried me, it was very cool.”
“Shinozuka-san……”
“You were also very cool during the cavalry battle! Stealing that Mikoshiba-kun’s headband was amazing! I was so impressed that I was clapping my hands throughout”
When I remember the role that Tanaka-kun played at that time, my excitement heats up again. Even it looked like he was falling down, he had the guys to not let go of the headband. It was too amazing!
“Certainly that was amazinggg”
“It was thanks to Tanaka that the blue team won afterall”
Everyone in the class is praising Tanaka.
“No, that was because another guy distracted Mikoshiba so I could take his headband. I couldn’t have won by myself”
“You owe it to my role of bait”
“I-i-idiot. Weren’t you instantly defeated by Mikoshiba?”
The heavy atmosphere became light, and they were laughing together. It seems that everyone became united.
Tanaka-kun hid his face with the back of his hand.
“Thank you, Shinozuka-san. I will do my best too”
Although I am not sure how to convey my gratitude, I am glad that he seems happy. Like Tanaka-kun, I will try harder too.
The third year’s cavalry battle seems to be an intense fight, but the me that couldn’t see much due to the distance, spotted a girl taking a video afterwards.
Ichinose-senpai was precisely giving instructions. (SK: Senpai notice me!-not) At times he would command aggressiveness, and when needed, he would properly order for defence. If times were better, he could be a military strategist. It ended up being an one-on-one with the blue team’s general. The general is slightly larger than Ichinose-senpai, with movement not inferior to him. When an opening was found, the headband was snatched and the yellow team ended victorious. Ichinose-senpai was so cool.
And the last event which I can finally participate in, the 3 legged race.
《The next competition is the 3 legged race. You guys, don’t even try to take advantage of the confusion to touch weird places.》
Lining up in order, it starts with 3 pairs at a time. Everyone began running awkwardly, while stumbling and struggling with the towel that was tied to their feet.
“Hey, don’t touch me in weird places!”
“It can’t be helped right, it’s a competition!”
It seems that the broadcasting chief-san was not conscious of his words, and it seems like they are arguing. This is a chance!
“Let’s do our best and get number 1, Tanaka-kun!”
“Eh, ah, un.”
A-re, is he too nervous? Tanaka-kun’s expression is stiff.
Wrapping our ankles with the towel, we wait for the previous pair before we start running. The people whom were praising Tanaka-kun earlier are sending their cheers.
“Do your best Tanaka-ouji! I look forward to what cool things you’ll do this time round!”
That boy is cackling with laughter again and the surrounding boys are grinning broadly, it feels somewhat unpleasant. They might not even be supporting us.
“Do not mind it Tanaka-kun!”
“Ye, yes, that’s right. Such guys don’t matter. . . . What if I touch you in a strange place? I might get hated. . . ”
Muttering to himself with the same stiff expression. I have to calm his nervousness but, I don’t even know what should I do.
Ah, thats right!
“Tanaka-kun Tanaka-kun, please look here”
“Eh? Tte, Shinozuka-san!?”
When Yuya-kun got mad during the borrowing competition, his face when he was laughing for the brief moment. Using my hands to push in both cheeks to make the octopus face, Tanaka-kun opened his eyes wide surprised.
“How is it? Are you able to relax?”
“…..fufu, hahahahaha. Shinozuka-san, you are weird.”
He holds his sides and bursts into laughter. The tension seemed to have eased, good good.
“Thank you Shinozuka-san. I kept getting helped by you”
“That is my line. I have always been saved by you. Let’s do our best for the three legged race. I am reassured to be with you, Tanaka-kun”
“……un, let’s do our best.”
Standing at the starting line, I grasped Tanaka-kun’s shoulder and faced ahead. With the pistol’s signal, our legs stretched forward. Usually, I would be stunned by the pistol sound, but without a sense of strangeness or unrest, I was able to run. This might just be thanks to Tanaka-kun.
“One two, one two”
Although we are running well, other pairs are running while matching their breathing and we are currently second. When approaching the curve, the people running at the front stopped because their towel came off. This is my chance!
“Now Tanaka-kun!”
“Yes, I will pick up the pace!”
We overtook the first place pair! At this rate, we will reach the goal! And the hasty me, made a mistake in my timing to step forward with my foot.
“Be careful!”
Tanaka-kun, whom supported me before when I was about to collapse, placed his hands under my chest and lifted me so that I did not fall.
Thanks to that, I did not fall down but, we were overtaken by the gap made.
“Sorry, Tanaka-kun!”
“…… Eh, un”
I wonder if he is angry?
The shouts stopped, but Tanaka-kun became silent.
We tried to catch up but failed to do so, reaching the goal in 2nd.
“Haa, haa…… I’m sorry. If only at that time I wasn’t about to fall……”
“…… It was soft”
“Eh?”
Tanaka-kun’s face became entirely red, in a daze where my voice won’t reach him. Waving and clapping my hands in front of him, our eyes finally met.
“Ah, it’s not what you think! I didn’t do it on purpose, that was an emergency”
“What are you talking about?”
The suddenly panicked Tanaka-kun tilted his head, when I apologised because of my fall and we were overtook and,
“You do not have to worry about it. It is good that you didn’t fall and sustain injuries…… that is, I am sorry.”
“Why is Tanaka-kun apologizing?”
“Eh!? Tha, That… that is”
He stutters and doesn’t make sense. What is it I wonder, Tanaka-kun whom has been showing strange behaviours since a while ago is completely white. In the end, without knowing why he apologised, the three legged race ended.
“Shinozuka-san”
“Yes?”
“Watch the next relay. With Shinozuka-san’s presence, I will be filled with courage”
“Yes! Of course! I will cheer for you.”
Since all the competitions that I am taking part of are over, I have to do some student council work. This afternoon we have to calculate the scores from this afternoon’s competition, today is day 1 so it is easy to summarize today’s problems for the next year, I should be able to support you while you work even if I am sitting down.
《This year’s sports festival is also reaching the last event. The sports festival flower shaped competition, the mixed gender, mixed grade relay!! Whether you like it or not, this is the last. Challenge it with all your strength!!》
Firstly, the girls would run. Amongst the gathered group, Mamiya-senpai was there.
“Mamiya-senpai, please do your best!”
I raised my voice from the tent to cheer for her and, Mamiya-senpai waved her hand when she noticed me.
It is the enemy team but I may support it. I can see the place where Mamiya-senpai is running.
2 students per grade at a time, turn at the halfway point and finally the anchor makes a lap. Everyone seems to be fast, I feel excited even though I am not a runner.
As the first years stands on the starting line, the teacher with a starting pistol raises an arm and the first graders began to run at the same time as the bang. The yellow team is cheering with all their strength while Yamamoto-san, whom seats in front of me, gets the baton.
“Do your best Yamamoto-san!”
Work was left halfway because I got too absorbed, and the baton was passed to the last anchor. The red team’s anchor is Mamiya-senpai. A person from the yellow team is toe to toe with her. It is hard to cheer!
Mamiya-senpai who usually acts like a Yamato Nadeshiko, is running desperately. It’s the former Mamiya-senpai.
《The anchors from red and yellow team are toe to toe! The red team’s anchor is our school’s pride, the Yamato Nadeshiko of the rumours, Mamiya Sakurako! The yellow team’s anchor is the girls basketball club’s ace, Higuchi Madoka! So, just who will grasp the glory of the winner! 》
“Do your best, Do your best-!”
Mamiya-senpai!
While I couldn’t say it, I shouted it in my heart. As for whether my wish went through, Mamiya-senpai had overtaken the yellow team and broken the goal tape.
Cheers cried out, and the Mamiya-senpai who had became sweaty, patted my head at the tent in front of the goal.
“Thank you, Aika”
Mamiya-senpai, was smiling so wide that you could see her sparkling white teeth, and everyone was unable to pull their gaze away from her. Mamiya-senpai is so cool! Even though she’s a girl, she’s so cool!
《The girl’s relay ended with the red team’s win. The last event is the battle of miserable bastards. You guys, better not show us a miserable run!》
The president of the broadcasting club is great. Being able to keep talking all the way from this morning. Not even worried that their voice might not work tomorrow.
The first year boys start running. In the lead was the blue team.
It is prohibited for members of the track-and-field club to come out for this relay race, so people from other athletic departments will come out instead. A few years ago, it seems that people from the track-and-field club came out and it was an entirely one-sided match. That’s why the track-and-field’s Mayu-chan didn’t come out.
And finally the baton is given to the second years. Its Tanaka-kun’s turn!
“Tanaka-kunTanaka-kunTanaka-kuun!”
I cheered in a loud voice which feels like my throat is withering. Pulling ahead of the blue team, I jumped and jumped again for joy.
The baton was successfully passed onto the next member, however, the next member was pretty bad. Yep, it was normal for someone like that to appear.
“UooOOOOO!”
Running with a roar was the blue team’s Mikoshiba-kun. I get the feeling that he has already surpassed the limits of human ability.
《Just like that, Mikoshiba overtakes the yellow team, and the distance between them widens. Is there anyone left who can overtake this guy！？》
The baton was passed to the third year. The anchor for yellow team is Ichinose-senpai. He is steadily chasing after the blue team. By the time half of the track has been completed, that much distance has been opened. Amazing…… Ichinose-senpai is amazing!
“Ichinose-senpai wins!”
Of course all around me are the girls, and the boys who are raising their voices, while making a loud racket.
I don’t care if my throat is crushed. Even if I won’t be able to speak tomorrow. Please reach Ichinose-senpai, even if it’s a little, I want to be his strength!
《Ichinose approaches! Iwaki runs away! Kawachi is running after the 2 people! This is a suitable fight for the end of the sports festival! Who would be the winner!!》
Just before the goal, finally, Ichinose-senpai had managed to match up with the blue team’s anchor! I almost forgot to breathe, as I watched Ichinose-senpai’s hand take hold of it. (baton?)
God-san, Buddha-san and Angel-san! Please let Ichinose-senpai win! (SK: The ritual to summon a god)
And the match,
《GOOOALL! The winner is Ichinose Kazukiii!! With a difference of one step, he defeated the blue team and obtained a close victoryyy! What the heck, you are too good!》
I was so touched that I can’t see what is before me. Endlessly wiping my overflowing tears, I cried out aloud.
Even now the sounds of cheering and support haven’t stopped. The cheerleaders shouting for Ichinose-senpai. At that time, I felt a warm hand pat me gently on the head.
“You cry too much”
The relay is over, Ichinose-senpai returned to the officer’s tent, he wiped his face with a towel while laughing wryly on his seat.
“You’ll dirty your towel. I’ll wipe it with my own towel”
「It’s fine. Honestly, your nose is leaking like a kindergartner’s.」
Ichinose-senpai’s laugh is interesting, his face turns pale everytime he wipes his nose.
Hiiii~, Ichinose-senpai’s towel has gotten dirty from my runny nose!
“I will wash and return it!”
“Don’t mind it”
“I will mind! I will definitely, definitely wash and return the towel!”
Taking the towel off Ichinose-senpai’s hand, I tried to glare as though intimidating but I end up smiling instead.
“I heard it.”
“Eh?”
“Aika’s encouragement. I was able to win because I heard it, I was able to take another step forward because of that encouragement.”
My voice, it had reached after all.
“However it wasn’t just me, the others were cheering also, and you senpai all did your best!”
“Yes, I will work hard. Everyone was cheering, Aika’s voice was pushed back towards the end. Thanks, Aika.”
Mamiya-senpai gently stroked my head and smiled. The tears which had stopped were overflowing again, and the towel I borrowed from Ichinose-senpai was already soaked.
“Crybaby”
“But but I am happy. I am happy that I am able to be of assistance to senpai.”
“Un”
“Everyone worked hard and, running their best and everything, everything made me happy. I never thought that humans can feel this moved……”
“……un”
“I, I am glad to be born.”
“Haha, that’s exaggerated.”
I isn’t an exaggeration.
I didn’t give up even before when I despaired of my illness, I worked hard on surgery and endured the side effects of drugs, I desperately desperately desperately fought for life, now I am here.
My real body has already disappeared however, my existence is now as Aika-chan.
Thank you, angel-san.
Aika-chan. I still don’t understand why did you choose to die. I can’t understand how hard it must have been to worry about that so much. Therefore, I will preciously live the life that she has thrown away. This can just be my repayment to Aika-chan.
“……Aika”
I cannot stop crying, Ichinose-senpai has been stroking my head all the time.
“………..”
“If my cute junior is crying, you know that I would have to comfort them. There are also bad parts from Kazuki.”
“………….”
“I don’t mind it. Because the one Kazuki likes is Sakurako.”
“…Don’t change.”
“Nn?”
“Even though no memories remain, the true essence of Aika is unchanged. It’s straightforward and beautiful. For me to like such an Aika… was scary. ”
The winners were the blue team. While the yellow team came in second place, I was quite satisfied.
To remember the sports festival by, I took a photo with everyone from class, everyone in the student council and Mayu-chan et al, with sensei as well. There is so much memories that I can’t help but smile.
After I finish cleaning up after the sports festival, I will return together with Mayu-chan.
“Well, this year was a pretty exciting one. Though, it was mostly thanks to the student council president.”
”Righttt. When the president appeared, the cheering female voices was amazing”
The sunset colors the sky. On the way 3 people are walking side by side, the long shadows are holding hands.
“It was very fun. Let’s do our best next year too!”
“I hope that i’ll be in the same class next year.”
“Ah, that is good. If Aika-chan is in the same class, everyday will be fun”
“I, I would like to be on the same class too!”
It was a very tiring first day, I worked my best with a sense of accomplishment, I was smiling all the way home.
I wish next year I would be in the same class as Mayu-chan and the others. Then, eat lunch and study ,it would be a more enjoyable school life,
When I arrived at the house mother was there to greet me, with complaints.
“W-What’s with your uniform!? It’s completely messed up!”
My gym uniform became dirty because of the tug-of-war, and my surprised mother panics upon seeing my bruised elbows and knees.
“Why do you have to worry me so… wha!? What’s with that bruise!”
“I have been dragged into a tug of war.”
Laughing as I was talking, Yuuya-kun’s thunder struck on me.
“Idiot! I let you out of my sight for just a moment, and you get injured! Hurry and get in the bath and clean that up already!”
I am forcefully dragged along to take a shower.
Uuu It stings as the water soaks into the wound. However this wound remains as evidence that I stood up and gave it my very best.
After having a shower, what was waiting for me was a warm meal and,
“Do it yourself”
Yuuya-kun brought the first-aid kit to me. Though I knew about bandages and antiseptic, I had never had a chance to use them on myself. There was always someone by my side to do it for me. I wonder, how much disinfectant should I use?
“…really, just hand it over.”
The disinfectant is snatched out of my hands, the cotton absorbs it and is pressed lightly against my wound. Seeing as how I had washed them all, disinfectant was applied to all of my wounds.
“Ah, I had come in first place in the bread-eating concest. It was all thanks to my practicing with Yuuya-kun.”
“Well then, good for you.”
“Huh? What did you just say?”
I take a peek at the face of my mother who is busy making rice. Ah, I have to tell mother about it also!
“Listen to this, mother. Yuuya-kun came to watch the sports festival today!”
“Hmph, Idiot!”
“Eh? You mean Yuuya?”
Being stared at by mother, Yuuya-kun seems to be in a bit of a panic.
“It’s not like that! I just sort of… happened… to be passing along in that neighborhood.”
“…and so because he happened to be passing by, he was able to see me? Right, Yuuya?”
“Yeah, that’s why.”
What exactly is making you so panicky?
“Also, when it came to the borrowed item event, I was carried on his shoulders and was able to take first place! Yuuya-kun is really, really fast!”
“Eh!?”
“You better shut up already!”
I close my mouth and don’t speak, and mother warmly laughs at us.
“Fufu, I would have liked to see that scene. Now then, shall we have some rice?”
“…tch.”
Unpleasant face-making Yuuya-kun. I wonder what wrong things did I say? I just praised you, you know? Ah, I see!
“Yuuya-kun, here!”
“Hmm?”
“This is the bread I had to eat from the bread eating contest. Since I won because of Yuuya-kun, I will let you have it. ”
“Who wants it!”
Oops, I made him angrier. Since it can’t be helped, I’ll eat it tomorrow morning. Alhough rice is good, toast is also good as well.
Mother had specially made a hamburger steak. I helped to set the table, and during dinner I talked excitedly about the sports festival.
Although I probably annoyed him, Yuuya-kun still listened. Mother also happily listened. This one day alone was so very enjoyable.
I decided to make the memories I had of today the treasure of my life.
“Yuuya-kun, thanks for lending me your back…”
“I don’t wanna hear it!”
