Every Day Would Be Like...

"So that was it. In other words, you decided to stay here because it would be more convenient to treat Nao."

After hearing Nao's explanation, Yukina finally understood.

At this moment, she and Nao were sitting seiza across from each other on the floor of the upstairs room that had originally belonged to Chiba. Yukina had lived there for two years, and Nao was living there now. From outside came the occasional dull thuds of flesh striking wooden posts, while intermittent "thump, thump" hammering sounded overhead.

"Mm."

Nao nodded.

So that was it. Nao really was far too frail. She should be about the same age as me, but she still looked just as she had three years ago. She hadn't even grown any taller.

In fact, she looked somewhat haggard now.

Her illness must be very serious.

Chiba must have let Nao and Hirohiko stay here not only because it was convenient, but also so he could treat Nao promptly if anything unexpected happened.

That was probably what Chiba had in mind...

After all, Nao is Hirohiko's girlfriend. She must be someone incredibly important to him.

Yes, they have to stay here. Nao absolutely has to stay here! As those thoughts flashed through Yukina's mind, she glanced at the bedroom where she had lived for two years. Pressing her lips together, she said, "From now on, we might have to share this room. Um... is there anything you can't accept? Things like cleanliness or daily habits?"

Hearing Yukina's words, Nao closed her eyes. There was no surprise on her face, nor any sign of difficulty. Instead, she smiled.

For one thing, this had originally been Yukina's home; Hirohiko had already told her that. For another, even before Nao had explained why she and Hirohiko were staying here, Yukina had