Actually, this was how it happened—was this some TV program?
What Yukino meant was simply that she wanted someone to accompany her while buying Yuihama's birthday present, and the person she wanted was not me, but my younger sister, Komachi.
Her judgment was perfectly correct. From past experience, when something like this came up, Yukino usually asked Yuihama for help. But this time it was for Yuihama, so she could not ask her. Thus, the only other person Yukino, whose social circle was not particularly broad, could think of was Komachi Hikigaya.
We waited quietly where we were, and two minutes later, Komachi finally returned.
She had probably realized she would be going out with Yukino today, so her outfit was simpler than usual: a short-sleeved shirt, a summer camisole, a pleated skirt, thigh-high socks, and flats. The overall look had a ladylike air, though the cap perched lightly on her head added a touch of energy. She held a plastic bottle of tea.
"Oh, Yukino-ane! Hello."
"I'm sorry to make you come out on your rare day off."
"No, no. Komachi wanted to buy Yui-sister a present too, and she was really looking forward to going out with Yukino-ane."
She answered Yukino's apology with a smile. She seemed rather fond of Yukino, so those words were probably not just courtesy. Come to think of it, Yukino was popular with airheaded people. Among the people I knew, only Hayama was more popular with girls than she was.
"The train should be here soon. Let's go."
I reminded Yukino and Komachi, and the three of us headed for the ticket gates.
Our destination today was the legendary dating spot for Chiba high schoolers—everyone's beloved LaLaPort TOKYO-BAY.
It had all kinds of shops, as well as a movie theater and a large