After finishing the cake, Light realized from Utaha's uneasy expression what she might be thinking. Internally, he let out a laugh.
"The answer is yes."
"Huh?" She sounded sincerely surprised.
"About what you asked me before." Light clarified: "You wanted me to act as your boyfriend and go on a date with you at the mall, right? So the answer is yes."
"I feel like I'm being tricked somehow." Utaha commented.
Her voice maintained its usual serious tone. However, as she stood up, she muttered a 'Yes!' with a softer, more feminine intonation.
She probably imagined that Light wouldn't hear her, making her reaction even more charming in his eyes.
After Light settled the bill, they both left the café.
When Light tried to take her hand, he was met with a surprised look from Utaha.
Noticing her hesitation, he argued, "Isn't the idea to pretend to be a couple? Then it's natural for us to hold hands, isn't it?"
"Well... I suppose so." She eventually gave in.
When Light wrapped Utaha's delicate hand in his, she displayed a clearly anxious expression.
"Stay calm, act naturally." Light advised. "Make the best of this experience."
There was something in Light's voice that soothed, almost like a charm, making Utaha relax, until her breathing became more regular.
She brought her other hand to her chest, inhaling deeply and then releasing the air slowly.
"I'm more relaxed now." She confirmed. "You're right, I'm going to make the most of it for my light-novel!"
"That's it." Light replied with a smile.
"Well," Utaha asked, "have you started your novel yet?"
"In fact, I've given it the title 'One-Punch Girl'." Light revealed slowly, "It's a plot involving heroes and villains."
"Interesting," Utaha showed curiosity, "Why did you choose that name?"
As they stopped at a traffic light waiting to cross the road, Light turned to her.
"The main character is called Saitamika," he began to explain, "She was a young girl with common desires and dreams. She always longed to be recognized, but her diminutive stature and delicate appearance were often the target of taunts.
Fed up with being looked down upon, in a moment of determination, she promised herself: she would dedicate three whole years to becoming the most powerful person on the planet."
"And what happens then?" Utaha asked, clearly involved.
Noticing her enthusiasm, Light let out a soft laugh.
"Saitamika's training was intense, challenging her physically and emotionally. Every day, she excelled against strong opponents," said Light. "Over time, she not only got stronger, but also changed her appearance. During concentration or battle, she grew to 190 cm, with defined muscles and a majestic, unique presence."
"Hmm, got it." Utaha reflected.
The traffic light opened for pedestrians, and they both drove on.
As she resumed her thoughts, she turned her gaze to Light.
"And what happens then?" she asked.
"This metamorphosis was temporary, and as soon as the danger was neutralized, Saitamika returned to her original, more delicate form." Light continued. "She's not exactly a fan of this transformation, but when she takes it on, she has the ability to beat any opponent with a single punch."
"Ah, so that's where the name 'One-Punch Girl' comes from." Utaha commented, smiling. "I like the idea, I think it will be a success."
"Thanks." Light thanked him. "I'm planning to adapt it into a manga. I already have the script for the first and second seasons ready, all that's left is to find an illustrator."
In fact, he already had someone in mind for this task...
"I wish you luck in this endeavor." Utaha expressed his wishes. "I hope it all works out."
"I wish you the same." Light replied with a genuine smile.
Seeing his smile, Utaha looked away. It was only then that she seemed to realize how close she was to him, as she noticed her hands intertwined with his. Her lips parted slightly and she let out a low murmur.
"We're here." Light said after they had left the train station and arrived in front of the mall.
"Mm." Utaha nodded, still holding his hand.
The two entered the mall together.
"You know, Utaha," began Light, looking at the shop windows as they walked, "I've always admired the way you manage to create such deep characters and engaging plots."
Utaha smiled, a little flattered. "Thanks, Light. But seriously, I'm really looking forward to seeing 'One-Punch Girl' come to life. I think it has great potential."
They stopped in front of a sweet store. "Would you like a macaron?" asked Light, pointing to the window full of colorful sweets.
"I'd love one!" Utaha replied, her eyes twinkling.
The two of them continued through the mall, munching on snacks, laughing and exchanging stories. They were so engrossed in their conversation that they barely noticed when a familiar figure approached.
"Utaha-senpai?" Tomoya Aki exclaimed, looking surprised.
"Tomoya-kun..." Utaha's expression showed a certain discomfort, but she quickly disguised it.
Tomoya's gaze, then standing in front of them, fell mainly on the couple's intertwined hands.
"Good evening, Tomoya-kun." Utaha's tone became sweeter and more delicate: "It's not often I see you in a shopping mall. Ah, this is Light Yagami, my boyfriend~"
Introduced in this way, Light smiled. Offering his hand, he said, "Hello, Tomoya-kun. May I call you that?" Seeing his reflexive agreement, Light continued smiling: "Thank you. Are you by any chance close to my girlfriend?"
"Yes, we've known each other for a while..." Tomoya, shaking Light's hand, replied almost automatically. He looked surprised and bewildered.
Light, after releasing Tomoya's hand, turned to Utaha and planted a kiss on his cheek, saying, "You mentioned wanting an ice cream, didn't you? Then feel free to talk to your friend, I'll be right back."
Taken by surprise, Utaha just nodded automatically from start to finish.
However, she was skilled at hiding her true emotions.
Despite this, it seemed that Tomoya had noticed something.
"Utaha-senpai, since when have you two been together?" Tomoya asked: "It's Light Yagami, isn't it? The one who always stands out in the evaluations."
"Exactly, it's him." Utaha regained her composure, staring at Tomoya: "Ah, what an inconsequential boy..." She touched the part of his face that had received the kiss.
Possibly misinterpreting the situation, Tomoya hastened to say: "Don't be upset, Utaha-senpai, it's just a fling. If you're not happy, you can break up with him!"
"It's not like that, Tomoya-kun." She replied with a faraway, delighted look: "He's amazing! I can't believe he chose me~!"
"Ah... Well..." Tomoya was perplexed, at a loss for words.
Noticing his hesitation, a flash of disdain appeared in Utaha's eyes, but it was so fleeting that Tomoya probably didn't even notice it, especially given the state he was in.
"I... I have to go, I hope you... have fun!" Tomoya exclaimed in a raised voice: "See you later, Utaha-senpai!"
Watching Tomoya walk away in a hasty manner, Utaha displayed an expression of indecision, which soon turned into a slight sneer, culminating in a cold snort.
"Did it take me long?" Light came back holding two ice cream cones: "I got you blackberry flavor, you like it, don't you?"
"How did you find out I love blackberry?" asked Utaha, who, without further ado, wrapped him in a sudden hug.
With both hands occupied by the ice cream, Light allowed her to hug him.
"Are you all right?" Light asked softly.
"Hmm, I just want to stay like this a little longer, okay?" She whispered.
"As you wish." Light replied.
━━━━━━━━
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