After deciding on a diner that was close to home, Hina intentionally took the route that will pass through a shopping district.   Hina had finally gotten her wish to spend some time with Nozomi, so she was full of energy and enthusiasm when suggesting a ton of clothes and accessories for her.  However, Hikaru kept stealing the spotlight. He did not speak much but would often place something different on Nozomi, and each time, Nozomi was not as averse to his suggestions.  “But wouldn’t these look

Hikaru brought Nozomi to a roving ramen stall that they had passed by earlier. It was a short distance away from the shrine.   They had a quick meal, then returned to the shrine and found a quiet corner with a bench to enjoy the scenery.   “Now, let’s see how effective this ground is?” Hikaru said.  “So, this is what you had in mind.” Nozomi smiled, impressed. “Good idea.”  

“Standby with your hands like this...” Goro said, preparing Nozomi for the start of the song. He stood close to her and casually touched her hands like they were familiar with each other. “Watanabe-san, you asked me what era I was from, didn’t you?” “Hm? Yeah?” [Coast is clear!] BaoBao gave the green light. “How about you guess?” She sneered and turned her face to look at Goro. Goro was met with her discoloured face that had streaks of black. He yelped and jumped back in fright. “Wh- Wh- Wh- What are you?!” His huge reaction drew some stares from those closer in proximity. However, Nozomi had already changed back to normal. “I told you to guess.” She said too softly for anyone to hear above the blaring music and noise all around. He shook his head and pointed at her. “You’re a freak!” His expression was pale. [Go again!] Others had already returned their attention to their games. Nozomi changed into her dark form and appeared inches before his face within a

Soon, it was the end of school and the start of spring break. Nozomi’s mother was still considered a new hire, so she could only have a break close to the end of their vacation. “Don’t worry about mother and enjoy yourself, okay, Mi-chan?” “Mm.” Nozomi nodded.  Her mother gave her some pocket money to spend again. It was Nozomi’s second date with Hikaru. This time, everyone knew about their plans. Hina did not sulk either, but she made them promise to have a group outing to the amusement park some day after their date.  They held hands and headed straight for Tenki shrine together.  In front of the shrine, there was a small but lively festival. A lot of plum products were displayed and put on sale. The trees surrounding the area had small pink buds emerging, signaling the approach of the cherry blossom season. It was quite a lovely sight.  ‘It’d be nice

While Hikaru washed up, Nozomi reflected on her summoning earlier. She was sorely lacking in control. At least she had figured out that the words did not matter. It was her intention, confidence, and willpower. She had to borrow some of her experience from the world where she was a wolf. Being an alpha wolf had helped her a lot.  ‘Lucky me. Hah. To think I’d have a day when I’d call myself lucky.’ Her thoughts quickly drifted to what happened after that.  ‘But... What exactly made Hikaru lose control that way?’ She recalled his expression when she found him staring at her.  ‘Does he have some kink for bad girls or something...?’ Come to think of it, he had no trouble accepting her questionable activities, such as stalking him.  The corners of her mouth curved up as she thought of ways she could play and tease him once she could. Then, she would have answer to