[Vol 2] A Romantic Comedy About Flirting and Getting Married to a Popular Voice Actress Chapter 3

Chapter 3 - The Voice Actress Screams at the Theme Park

 

A few days after Ai-chan’s magazine interview.

I had been constantly turning one question over in my head: was there some way to help Ai-chan increase her public exposure without getting overwhelmed by nerves?

If things stayed as they were now, every time Ai-chan was called for a face-revealing job, she would end up failing. If I truly wanted to help her rise to the top as a voice actress, this was a problem we couldn’t avoid. It was a very serious concern.

“──So, is there any way to solve this? Maya-san.”

“……Why is it that whenever you’re troubled about Ai-chan, you come to consult me?”

After school on a weekday. While she was working at the office, I asked Maya-san about it, and she turned toward me with a tired expression. Come to think of it, I felt like we’d been in a similar situation not too long ago.

“I’m not a manager, you know? I’m just an office worker. If you have questions about manager duties, shouldn’t you ask another manager?”

“But I don’t really have any connections with the other managers……”

At this agency, 『Light Road』, there were of course other voice actor managers. But since I was officially just an worker myself, I had almost no interaction with them. The only one I knew was Kisaragi-san, whom I’d clashed with before, but if possible, I’d rather not get involved with him again. He’s just… not my type of person.

“And besides, Maya-san, you know a lot about voice actors. That makes you really easy to rely on, I guess……”

“Haa… I see…… I don’t mind being relied on as your instructor, but…… being asked things unrelated to my actual job every single time……”

Maya-san showed a complicated expression.

Ah—did I trouble her after all……? It’s true that I tend to rely on Maya-san for everything. She’s listened to a lot of my worries about Ai-chan, too……

“I’m sorry, Maya-san…… I keep asking you about things that aren’t really your responsibility…… You’re right, this is something I should be asking managers like Kisaragi-san about…… I’m really sorry!”

“No, you don’t have to apologize so formally. ……Still, Ai-chan being extremely nervous, huh…… That might actually be a bit of a problem.”

“Eh…… a problem?”

Maya-san looked serious. Somehow, this person really does think about us, doesn’t she?

“Actually, just before Kanata-san came in today, there was a bit of talk about a job……”

It seemed Maya-san had heard about a potential job related to Ai-chan on my behalf.

From what she told me, it was an invitation from a director in charge of a live radio program. Apparently, he produces a voice actor radio show hosted by a popular female voice actress named 『Natori Mai』.

On that radio show, there’s a regular segment where they introduce trending anime that are currently airing or scheduled to air soon. For that segment, they were planning to feature 『Kimizora』, and they wanted Ai-chan to appear as a guest.

“So that means appearing on a radio show hosted by Natori Mai-san……!”

“Yes. By the way, do you know Natori-san?”

“Of course. She’s a very famous voice actress.”

Natori Mai-san. A female voice actress in her early twenties, known for her energetic and cheerful personality and voice. Though still young, I’d heard she’d been involved in voice acting work since childhood—a real veteran.

“As expected, Kanata-san. You can rattle off that information so smoothly even when asked out of the blue…… You don’t have any arrest records, do you?”

“No I don’t! I just happen to know a lot!”

I had the data on especially famous voice actresses pretty much memorized. You could call me a walking voice actress encyclopedia.

“Well, setting aside the topic of walking stalkers──this program invites one voice actress from the featured anime into the studio as a guest every time. And this time, they want that guest to be Ai-chan.”

Natori-san also belongs to this agency, so it was probably easy for them to reach out. That’s how Maya-san explained it. Also, aren’t stalkers usually walking by default?

“By the way, the radio program is called 『Natori Mai no Kirikiri Mai』.”

“Huh? Isn’t that kind of lame?”

“But will Ai-chan be okay……? Radio work isn’t so much about acting a character as it is about talking as herself. Do you think she can handle that calmly?”

She had a point—that was definitely worrying. Radio work allows even less room for failure than interviews. If Ai-chan got too nervous again and turned into a broken radio, that moment would be broadcast all across Japan. That would cause trouble for the program, and of course Ai-chan herself would end up becoming a topic for all the wrong reasons.

“Do you think she’ll be okay? It probably depends on just how bad her stage fright is…… If it seems like too much, I think it’d be better to decline.”

“Yeah…… For now, I’ll talk to her and ask how she feels. Can we decide after that?”

This was something we needed to consider carefully. For Ai-chan’s sake, I really wanted her to appear on the radio. But right now, it might be too heavy a burden for her. I wanted to decide what to do based on her own feelings as well.

“Understood. But please respond as soon as possible. And here’s the director’s contact info.”

Maya-san handed me a memo with the director’s name and phone number.

“If you decide to decline, they’ll need time to find another guest, so make sure you contact them. And if you do accept, you should greet the MC, Mai-san, in advance.”

“Understood. Thank you very much.”

I bowed deeply to Maya-san as she gave me all this advice.

And once again, I began thinking about how to help Ai-chan overcome her nervousness. Unfortunately, no clear answer came to mind……

 

※

 

"W-Wait, me as a radio guest……!?"

After we got home, I brought up the topic while we were eating. Ai-chan froze instantly, her face completely blank.

Then, a moment later, her smile exploded.

"Y-Yes……! I did it……! I did it, Kanata! I’m finally getting invited as a guest!"

"Ah, ah…… congrats……"

Judging by her reaction, she definitely seemed motivated. She jumped up from her seat, still holding her chopsticks, dancing around in excitement. My oshi—seriously, how cute can she be?

"But…… Ai-chan, are you sure you’ll be okay? Before, during that interview, you said, 『I’m not good at exposure-type jobs outside of voice acting』……"

"Ah……"

It was like she suddenly realized her own weakness. Ai-chan stopped bouncing around and sat back down, her face drooping.

"That’s right…… I’ll probably mess something up again…… A live broadcast would definitely make me way more nervous than an interview……!"

Yeah…… that’s true. If she got that flustered during an interview where she already knew the questions, there was no way she could stay composed during a live voice actor radio show where anything could happen.

"Huh……? But Ai-chan, didn’t you appear on a radio show before……?"

Suddenly, a memory clicked into place. Now that I thought about it, Ai-chan had been on the web radio program for 『Maji☆Mari』 before. She didn’t act strangely back then, if I remembered correctly……

"Ah, yeah. But that time, all the voice actresses for 『Maji☆Mari』 were invited together, and it wasn’t a live broadcast. So I felt way more relaxed……"

I see. Thinking back, it wasn’t like the show focused specifically on Ai-chan’s character, 『Kana』. A lot of cast members were there, just chatting and having fun together. Plus, Ai-chan didn’t really talk that much back then.

"But this time, with that interview and this radio thing, I’ll actually be getting attention…… The tension is completely different……"

"I see…… So being invited as a guest is basically your first time, huh…… Then maybe it really is tough……?"

I asked Ai-chan carefully.

Honestly, turning down a radio job that we were finally offered would be incredibly painful. Opportunities like this are perfect for increasing Ai-chan’s fanbase.

The MC of the radio show that invited Ai-chan is a fairly famous voice actress. Naturally, her radio program has a lot of listeners.

If Ai-chan appeared on a show like that, it alone would get her noticed by a decent number of people. And if she managed to have some stylish back-and-forth with Mai-san and entertain the listeners, that appeal would increase even more. If things went well, she might even gain new fans just from that.

On top of that, Mai-san is a real veteran. Even if Ai-chan wasn’t great at talking, there was a high chance Mai-san could skillfully support her and turn it into something entertaining.

This was an opportunity you couldn’t ask for more when it came to getting Ai-chan’s name out there. If possible, I really wanted her to accept it.

But no matter how the job was, it would be meaningless if she couldn’t handle it. If Ai-chan had lost confidence because of that failed interview, then until we figured out a way to deal with her stage fright, it might be better to avoid exposure-type work. Messing up again and feeling even more depressed would be the worst outcome.

In the end, it all depended on how Ai-chan felt. I stared at her face, waiting to see what answer she would give.

For a while, she let out a small "Uuuh……" as she thought about what she should do. There were probably a lot of conflicting feelings inside her.

But eventually, she opened her mouth.

"O-Okay…… I’ll do it……! I’ll do it!"

"A-Ai-chan……! Are you really sure? Can you seriously go on a radio show?"

"Yeah! Because this is also a chance to increase the fans of the series, right? I don’t want to waste that!"

Even though she had to be terrified when thinking about the actual broadcast, Ai-chan looked straight into my eyes and answered confidently.

"I’ll try to think of a way to overcome my fear of exposure before then! That’s why I want to do this job!"

Her motivation was real. If that was the case, then all I could do was support her without hesitation.

"Got it…… Then let’s give it everything we’ve got! This time, we won’t fail!"

"Yeah! I definitely won’t let it turn out like that interview!"

After hearing Ai-chan’s resolve, I called the number on the memo Maya-san had given me. And just like that, Ai-chan’s appearance on the radio program was officially decided.

 

※

 

The day after Ai-chan decided to appear on the radio.

Ai-chan and I visited the agency together. Our purpose was to greet Mai-san, the MC of the radio program.

The recording for the episode Ai-chan would appear on was still about two weeks away. However, following Maya-san’s advice, we thought it would be best to talk to her once beforehand.

Fortunately, since we belonged to the same agency, we were able to ask the staff and find out when she would be stopping by.

And without much trouble, Ai-chan met Mai-san in the agency lobby and greeted her.

"Nice to meet you! I’m Natori Mai!! Since we’re from the same agency, let’s get along!!"

"Y-Yes……! I-I’m Aizaki Yuka……! P-Please take care of me!"

The woman greeting us with a bright voice and an energetic smile, her long black hair flowing behind her—that was Natori Mai-san.

I gave a brief greeting as well, then stepped back and watched the exchange as Ai-chan’s manager.

"Waaah! Ai-chan, you’re so cute! Uri uriー! Take this! I’ll pet you!"

"W-Wha!? Mai-san!? What are you doing!?"

"Fufufu! Showering your junior with affection is a senior voice actress’s privilege!"

With a voice befitting a voice actress and an overwhelmingly close sense of distance, Mai-san completely overwhelmed Ai-chan. She was the type who boldly pulled others along. Always smiling, always friendly—someone who seemed naturally good at getting along with anyone. It made sense that she was entrusted with hosting a radio show.

"Uryaryaryaa! Boob grab grab grab───!"

"Kyaa────!? What are you even doing────!?"

Circling behind Ai-chan, Mai-san grabbed her chest firmly and kneaded it as if savoring the feel.

……This person really is way too powerful.

"──Oh, looks like it’s about time! Sorry, Ai-chan! I’ve gotta go! Let’s go out to eat together sometime!"

"Y-Yes…… it would be an honor……"

After playing with Ai-chan to her heart’s content, Mai-san checked the time and hurried toward the exit.

"Ah! Mai-san, could I have a moment?"

"Hm?"

Ai-chan hurriedly called out to stop her.

Then, with a trembling voice, she spoke.

"About the upcoming job…… this kind of radio appearance is almost my first time…… And I’m really bad with stage fright…… When I’m acting, like during recording, I’m fine, but when I have to talk as myself, I get really nervous……"

Ai-chan carefully strung her words together.

"The other day, during filming and interviews, I messed up a lot…… I might end up causing trouble on Mai-san’s program too…… So, um…… I’m sorry……"

Apologizing in advance, Ai-chan bent deeply at the waist.

Apologizing beforehand didn’t mean mistakes were acceptable, but since she would be imposing on her, she wanted to be polite and say it first.

Seeing her serious attitude, Mai-san—

"Aah! So that’s what it is!!"

—replied with an unbelievably bright laugh.

"If that’s the case, then it's okay! Even if Ai-chan messes up, I’ll gracefully cover for you!!"

Mai-san declared it with a smile.

"I’ve been protecting this show for three years now, you know! Don’t underestimate your onee-san!? Even if a newbie suddenly starts speaking only Beruberu language during the broadcast, I’ll handle it flawlessly!!"

Giving some completely incomprehensible example, Mai-san flashed a confident thumbs-up.

Ooh……! How reassuring…… She wasn’t afraid of failure at all. If anything, she was overflowing with confidence.

She had the kind of presence that made you think, If I follow this person, everything will be fine. A dependable onee-san type through and through.

"So don’t worry about a thing, Ai-chan—just enjoy the radio show! You’re coming to have fun, after all! If you don’t smile, it’s a waste!"

"Y-Yes! Thank you so much!"

This time, Ai-chan bowed deeply in gratitude. Thanks to Mai-san’s dependable attitude, she looked completely at ease.

Thank goodness. Now Ai-chan could appear on the radio without lingering worries. With Mai-san there, even if Ai-chan got hit with the ‘unable to act’ debuff like during the interview, it probably wouldn’t turn into a disaster.

"Ah, but in exchange──"

Suddenly, Mai-san spoke up.

"──I’d be happy if you could make the listeners enjoy themselves during the show!!"

"Eh……? M-Make them enjoy themselves……?"

At the vague and unreasonable request, Ai-chan’s eyes went wide.

"Yep! Anything that makes the listeners happy is fine! Funny stories, crazy behind-the-scenes industry stuff! Think about lots of things you could talk about!"

No, crazy behind-the-scenes stories are not okay.

"Anyway, let’s work together and entertain the listeners! See you!"

"Ah, w-wait! Mai-san, please wait! How are we supposed to entertain them…… Mai-saaaan!"

Whether she was in a hurry or not, Mai-san disappeared in an instant without listening to Ai-chan.

Left behind were a dumbfounded Ai-chan and me.

"K-Kanataaa! What do we do……!? What does it even mean to entertain the listeners……?"

"Uh, well…… I’m not sure……? I mean, I’d enjoy it just from you being there, Ai-chan……"

"B-But other people won’t, right!? Most of them don’t even know me, right!?"

Ah, yes. That is absolutely correct. Unfortunately, at this stage, I was probably the only one who would be purely happy just from Ai-chan showing up.

"What do I do…… Kanata, what do I do!? What am I supposed to talk about during the broadcast……!?"

"C-Calm down! It’ll be fine!"

Man…… I thought we finally had a reliable partner, but now a brand-new problem had popped up……

"For now, let’s think up countermeasures together. Just like with the interview, we can practice and decide what to talk about! I’ll help as your manager!"

"Y-Yeah…… thank you…… With you around, Kanata, it’ll be okay…… right?"

Ai-chan clung to me with teary, upturned eyes. Man, she’s really cute…… Even in a situation like this, my brain was flooding with feel-good chemicals from sheer preciousness.

And then, suddenly, my smartphone started ringing. When I checked the screen, it was Nene-chan.

"Ah, sorry. Let me take this."

Moving to a deserted emergency staircase, I pressed the call button.

『Hello, Kanata-kun? Do you have a moment to talk right now?』

"Yes, go ahead. Did something happen?"

『It’s nothing serious, but I wanted to ask about our weekend date.』

Eh……?

A weekend…… date……?

『……? What’s wrong, Kanata-kun? When you came over to my place before, we promised we’d go on a date, didn’t we?』

…………Ah.

Uwaaaaaaaa! I forgotttttt!

I promised to go on a date with Nene-chan before! Right now, I’m supposed to be Nene-chan’s pretend boyfriend!

Lately, I’d been so busy with interviews and stuff that it completely slipped my mind……! But forgetting a date promise no matter how busy you are—that’s the worst, isn’t it……!

『……Kanata-kun? You didn’t forget, did you……?』

"N-No!? Of course not! Hahaha!"

I couldn’t let that be exposed. I somehow forced out a laugh.

『Is that so……? Well, as long as that’s the case. Then, Sunday is fine for the date, right? Where are we going in the end?』

"Ah, um, about that……! Of course, it’ll be a surprise on the day……!"

Since I’d completely forgotten about the date, I obviously hadn’t planned a destination. I covered it up on the spot.

『Fufu, teasing me, are you? Then I’ll look forward to it』

Damn it! I just raised the bar for no reason. Can I even put together a proper date plan……?

『Then what about the meeting time and place? Should we meet at the station before noon?』

"Uh, um…… about that too, I’ll contact you later! I’ll message you today, so please wait a bit!"

『I see. Then I’ll leave it to you. Sorry for rushing you』

"N-No! I’m the one who forgot abou—uhn!—forgot to contact you! Sorry about that! Well then!"

Before I could slip up any further, I hurriedly ended the call. Haa…… I really messed up…… I can’t believe I forgot such an important promise……

Feeling down, I returned to the lobby. Ai-chan was waiting there.

"Ah, Kanata! Welcome back! Was that work-related? Are you okay?"

"Ah, yeah…… I’m fine. It was a personal call……"

"Really? Oh, right, Kanata! Are you free this coming Sunday?"

"Huh, Sunday……!?"

Ai-chan asked in a lively voice, completely different from before the call.

"Yeah! There’s no point in just worrying, so I thought we could listen to lots of voice actor radio shows and do some rehearsal for how to talk! And if possible, I wanted you to help me too! If it’s Sunday, we can be together all day!"

"Ah, ah…… Sunday, huh……"

Sunday was the day of my date with Nene-chan. Unfortunately, I wasn’t free.

"S-Sorry, Ai-chan…… I actually already have plans that day……"

"Eh……?"

The light vanished from Ai-chan’s eyes. Her disappointment was obvious.

Since Ai-chan was finally motivated, I didn’t want to pour cold water on that enthusiasm. But my promise to Nene-chan had been made much earlier. And Nene-chan was struggling with her audition too. In the end, I had no choice but to refuse.

"That’s right…… Kanata has lots of plans too…… I can’t keep relying on you forever……"

"I’m really sorry! I said I’d help…… But I’ll support you during other free times! I’ll properly do my job as your manager!"

"Y-Yeah…… thank you! You’re right…… that’s more than enough! This is something I have to work hard on myself anyway! I’m happy just knowing you’ll help!"

Saying that, Ai-chan gave me a brave smile. That smile made my chest hurt even more.

I’m really sorry…… I’m sorry, Ai-chan……! Once things with Nene-chan are settled, I’ll stick by your side no matter what……! So please forgive me until then……!

The fact that I’d be going on a date with Nene-chan at such an important time for Ai-chan weighed heavily on my heart as I made a silent vow.

"Ai-chan……! Even if we can’t practice together, I’m still cheering for you! I believe you can do it!"

"Yeah! I’ll do my best! I’ll try handling it on my own for now!"

Seeing Ai-chan smile brightly as she replied, my sense of guilt only continued to grow.

 

※

 

The first thing I had to think about was the date plan with Nene-chan.

Considering the personality of the character she plays, 『Himemiya Shino』, and the nature of the work, which aims to realistically depict a pure, ordinary first love between a boy and a girl, it would be better not to do anything too flashy or unconventional. To begin with, someone like me—with no romantic experience—trying to be clever would just be forcing it.

With those conditions in mind, I thought about what kind of plan would be appropriate. And on the very day Nene-chan called me, I settled on a rough schedule. After that, I emailed her the meeting place and time.

Then, finally, the day of the date arrived. We met up at the designated spot.

"Kanata-kun! Sorry! Did I keep you waiting?"

"Ah, Nene-chan. Don’t worry about it. I just got here myself."

I greeted Nene-chan as she jogged over, exchanging the usual lines. For the record, I had actually arrived thirty minutes early. Forgetting the promise and then showing up late would have been way too unforgivable…

"Still… it’s been a long time since I’ve come to a place like this. Not since my parents brought me here when I was a child."

"Yeah. Actually, same here. I don’t really come to places like this with friends either."

Looking at the gate in front of us, we both sank into a sense of nostalgia.

It was the entrance gate to a theme park. The place I had chosen for our date was a fairly large theme park about an hour away from our town by train. As a date location, it was a very safe, standard choice.

"Sorry, Nene-chan. After teasing you and keeping it vague, we ended up coming to such a cliché place…"

"No, I’m actually happy. Not trying to be too unconventional feels more like 『Himemiya Shino』. And besides, I think I can genuinely enjoy this."

To understand Himemiya Shino’s feelings, I need to truly enjoy a date with my boyfriend from the bottom of my heart too. Nene-chan said that in a bright voice.

"Then, Kanata-kun. Please take care of me today as my boyfriend, okay? You’ll be escorting me this time, right?"

"Yes. I put together a few plans for today. So you can experience what it feels like to be a girlfriend."

What I had planned was nothing more than following a template-like date course around the theme park. But precisely because of that, I thought it would make it easier to experience the feelings of an ordinary couple.

"Ah, right. I’ll say this upfront, but today, let’s completely ban any of those lewd interactions like before, okay?"

"Of course. I understand. The role I’m playing is just an ordinary girl, after all. A pure, slightly shy JK with no tolerance for naughty things."

Thank goodness… It seemed like she really understood this time. With that settled, I could enjoy the date without worry.

I do feel a bit guilty going on a date when Ai-chan is having a hard time, but this is also for Nene-chan’s sake. For now, I’ll just enjoy it properly.

"Hehe. A first date really makes your heart race, doesn’t it? Even more so when it’s with you, Kanata-kun♪"

"I’m glad to hear that. Well then, shall we get going right away?"

As Nene-chan said that with a playful smile, I held out one hand.

"…? What is it, Kanata-kun? Your hand…"

"Obviously, we’re going to hold hands. …That’s what couples do, right?"

I suggested it while desperately enduring the embarrassment. Right now, I’m Nene-chan’s boyfriend. If I want her to properly experience what it feels like to have one, I want to be particular about things like this too.

"I-I see… You’re right, Kanata-kun."

Nene-chan smiled softly and took my hand. Her cheeks were slightly flushed.

"…Somehow, this feels a little embarrassing. Is this what being a couple feels like?"

"Y-Yes… maybe it is. Looks like the research is already paying off…"

Uwooooooo! This is so embarrassingggg! I’m doing my best to act calm, but this is seriously mortifying!

Nene-chan’s hand is incredibly soft and warm… And the way it feels to the touch is just too good. So this is what a girl’s hand feels like…!

…Wait, this is not the time to be moved by that. I need to escort her already!

"L-Let’s go! Let’s head inside! We’ll run out of date time!"

"Y-Yeah. We should hurry."

Nene-chan seemed to be walking more lightly than usual. Passing through the gate together with her, our date finally began.

 

※

 

“For now, why don’t we just enjoy the attractions normally? We’ll start with something classic.”

As I say that, I walk while matching her pace. I already researched the key points about escorting a woman yesterday. In that regard, I’ve got no gaps in my preparation.

Still… actually walking like this is pretty embarrassing.

Maybe because of that, Nene-chan seems quieter than usual too. In a situation like this, she’d normally tease me, but today she’s strangely calm. Maybe she’s just holding back the erotic teasing, but…

“Classic ones… you mean something like the Ferris wheel? But that’s not something you ride right at the start, is it?”

“The Ferris wheel is nice, but there’s something more fitting.”

I’ve carefully thought through today’s date plan. According to that plan, we’re starting with the roller coaster.

If we ride something thrilling first and scream our lungs out, this embarrassment and tension should ease up, and we’ll both get into a fun mood. After that, holding hands while walking around or riding the Ferris wheel should make the atmosphere even better.

To deepen the flirting afterward, I really want to ride the roller coaster here.

So I suggested it to Nene-chan.

“Eh…!? A roller coaster…!?”

For a moment, the light vanished from her eyes.

“Nene-chan…? Is something wrong?”

“Ah… no, um… it’s nothing, really…”

“…Don’t tell me you’re bad with roller coasters?”

“N-no, there’s no way that’s true I’m not bad with them at all I don’t have things I’m bad at.”

Nene-chan blurts it out at lightning speed. This… she’s obviously bad with them. So Nene-chan can’t handle thrill rides, huh… From how she usually acts, I thought she’d ride them with a cool expression.

But if that’s the case, I can’t exactly force her. For now, I’ll have to change the plan on the spot…

“Wait a second, Kanata-kun. I told you I’m not bad with them, didn’t I? Why are you trying to change our destination?”

“Eh…? But you were clearly reluctant just now…”

“I wasn’t reluctant. I super love roller coasters. I’d even marry one.”

Her tone totally changed just now, didn’t it?

“Roller coasters are actually my hobby. I go to amusement parks every weekend just for them, you know. I wish I could travel to regional jobs by roller coaster instead of by train.”

Weren’t you saying it’d been a long time since you came to a theme park?

This is bad. She’s trying so hard to cover it up that it’s getting weird.

It seems she really doesn’t want me to think she’s bad at this. Maybe because she usually teases me, she doesn’t want to show any weakness?

If she really can’t be honest, then I’ll have to give her an excuse so she doesn’t have to ride it──

“Come on, let’s just go already. Let’s hurry up and enjoy ourselves together.”

“Ah—hey! Don’t pull me like that!”

Nene-chan grabs my hand and yanks it hard. At the same time, I feel the vibration coming through her hand.

“(Rattle rattle rattle rattle… rattle rattle rattle rattle…)”

“Hey, Nene-chan, your hand is totally shaking! This is absolutely the ‘I’m scared’ kind of shaking!”

“It’s a warrior’s tremble. How exciting. The roller coaster is… over there, right?”

This is hopeless. Before I can even think of something to stop her, Nene-chan is already dragging me toward the roller coaster. Seriously, how much does she want to keep up appearances?

…But maybe she’s not as bad with it as she seems. Maybe she’s actually fine, and she just wants to correct my misunderstanding as soon as possible.

She’s not stupid, and if she were truly terrified, she wouldn’t be this stubborn. It’ll probably be fine.

“O-okay… I get it. Then let’s ride. …If it gets scary, it’s okay to scream, you know?”

“Fufu. You’re the one who should be worried, Kanata-kun. I won’t laugh, so feel free to scream as much as you want, alright?”

 

※

 

“Kyaaaaa—! Nooo waaaaah────! Someone, someone──────!”

The first drop of the roller coaster. Nene-chan’s flimsy show of bravado completely collapsed, and she let out a loud scream.

“This is no good—! It’s too fast—! Nooooo───! We’re gonna fall! Stop iiiit! Aaaah────────n!”

Letting out a voice that was hard to tell whether it was a scream or a shriek, Nene-chan had tears welling up in her eyes.

…Yeah, she really was bad with it. This girl is honestly kind of an idiot.

“Officer—!! Help me, officer────!!”

Wait, don’t call the police. That’s not a joke anymore. I’ll seriously look like a criminal.

“Aaaah—! Nooo────…… gaku……”

Ah—she fainted. Her eyes closed, and her head drooped forward.

Well… maybe that’s better for Nene-chan. At least she doesn’t have to feel the fear.

In the end, she stayed quietly unconscious until the roller coaster ride was over.

Nene-chan finally opened her eyes again after I brought her to a nearby bench.

“Haa… haa… I’m sorry… okay? I showed you such a pathetic side of me…”

“N-no… I’m not really bothered by it…”

After waking up, she leaned her body limply against the backrest and apologized in a weak voice.

“Actually, I’m really bad with roller coasters… Ever since I was little, I’ve never been good with thrill rides…”

Yeah. I know. Anyone would understand after seeing that.

“I thought I might be able to handle it now that I’m in high school, but… I guess it’s still impossible for me… Honestly, I never want to ride one again…”

“I think that’s probably for the best. …But what should we do next? If you’re not feeling well, maybe we should call it off for today and head home—”

“No, I’m fine… There’s no problem now. I rested a bit and feel better. As long as we don’t ride thrill rides, we should be able to continue the date.”

Nene-chan stands up and straightens her clothes.

“Are you really okay? Don’t push yourself, alright?”

“I’m fine. Besides, I have to do my best for the audition too. So, what are we doing next?”

Just to be safe, I take a good look at her. But her complexion isn’t bad. This time, she really does seem okay.

“Alright. Then let’s move on. Please follow me.”

I hold her hand again and lead her toward another attraction.

It’s a huge, ominous-looking building. At the entrance, the attraction’s name is written: 『Evil Spirit Ward』.

“Evil Spirit Ward…? Is this some kind of haunted house?”

“Yes. Haunted houses are a classic date staple.”

It’s a well-known idea that the heart-pounding fear of a haunted house can blend into romantic excitement. And there’s also the classic event where a scared Nene-chan goes “Kyaa!” and clings to me.

If she experiences going into a haunted house with someone of the opposite sex, maybe Nene-chan can really feel what it’s like to be an innocent girl in love. …It’s not like I want her to cling to me or anything, okay?

“By the way, Nene-chan, are you okay with this kind of thing? This counts as a scream-type attraction too, you know…”

“I’m fine. I actually like horror stuff. Let’s go in right away.”

With a calm expression, Nene-chan heads toward the reception desk. Seeing that, I feel relieved and follow after her.

After waiting in line for a while, it’s finally our turn, and the two of us enter the haunted house.

Inside, it’s predictably dark. Without the lamp we’re given, we wouldn’t even be able to see our feet. And maybe for atmosphere, the air conditioning seems set a bit strong.

As the name 『Evil Spirit Ward』 suggests, this haunted house is themed after an abandoned hospital. According to the setting, there was once a hospital director here with distorted beliefs. Under the guise of treatment, he experimented on many patients by administering new drugs. As a result, many people died, and the director himself also died after taking a drug he concocted. Ever since then, the spirits of the director and the patients he trapped have haunted the hospital… a very typical story.

Still, actually walking through the darkness like this is more frightening than expected. I squeeze Nene-chan’s hand tightly and ask if she’s okay.

“Yeah… but the atmosphere is really well done. I’m starting to get a little scared too…”

“It’s okay… If anything happens, I’ll definitely protect you, Nene-chan…!”

Protecting the woman beside you at times like this is the duty of the boyfriend role. As her temporary boyfriend, I say it decisively.

“…! Fufu, how reliable. I’m counting on you.”

Nene-chan tightens her grip on my hand and leans against me.

Ooh…! This situation feels really couple-like, doesn’t it…! Out of all the times I’ve been a temporary boyfriend, this might be the first time we’ve actually acted like a fresh, innocent couple.

Alright, let’s enjoy this haunted house and help Nene-chan grasp the key points for her acting!

That’s what I thought—right at that moment.

“Nyeaaaooooh───!”

『っ!?』

We both flinch at the same time.

With an indescribable scream, something jumps out in front of us. Illuminated by the lamp’s light is a long-haired woman in pale blue clothes. Her face is rotting, and her body is covered in blood.

She’s probably playing the ghost of a patient who died in this hospital.

『I’ll kill you tooooo!』

“Waaah! It showed up!”

I know I’m supposed to protect Nene-chan. I understand that—but I still end up screaming in surprise. The special effects are just too intense. Her face is seriously trauma-level messed up!

More importantly, is Nene-chan okay after seeing that!? She’s not about to faint while standing up, manga-style, is she!?

Worried, I look at Nene-chan’s face. And then…!

“Hmm…? This feels kind of different from what I imagined…”

She’s staring straight at the patient, tilting her head slightly. No surprise. No panic.

“Hey, you. Don’t you think that just now was a bit off?”

“Nye…?”

She’s actually talking to the ghost. Huh? What is my girlfriend doing?

“What you’re wearing is a hospital gown, right? That means you’re playing the spirit of a patient who died here… but then isn’t 『I’ll kill you too』 the wrong line? In the setting, the patients are the ones who were killed, after all.”

“Ah, um… well…”

“If you’re a patient, shouldn’t there be more appropriate lines? For example… 『It hurts… it hurts so bad… help meeee!』 or something like that?”

“Hiiiii!?”

The fear-filled voice Nene-chan produces makes the ghost actor flinch in shock. Nene-chan is really good at this kind of role too, huh…

“And also, the way you’re using your voice isn’t right. You need to project more from your stomach. If you’re going to act as a ghost, you should at least know the basics, shouldn’t you?”

And now it’s turning into serious voice-actor coaching!

“Do you know diaphragmatic breathing? It’s a way of breathing where your stomach expands when you inhale, not your chest.”

“Eh…? Um, no… I don’t know it…”

“I see. Then let’s practice now. First, place your hand on your stomach, okay? Then, when you breathe in, try to focus on making your stomach expand. Once you can do that, you’ll be able to produce a much stronger voice.”

“Ah, um… o-okay…”

Overwhelmed by the unexpected critique, the ghost actor loses the chance to argue back and ends up receiving Nene-chan’s acting guidance.

And after finishing her basic coaching of the ghost, Nene-chan seems satisfied and takes me along as we leave the attraction.

 

※

 

“Aahh… I really messed that up…”

After escaping from the haunted house, Nene-chan was drowning in self-loathing.

“I’m sorry, Kanata-kun… Instead of enjoying our date, I went and started giving acting advice to a complete stranger right away… That totally killed the mood, didn’t it…?”

“Well, um… I’m not particularly bothered by it…”

More than that, I kind of feel bad for the person playing the ghost. Getting their acting criticized by a customer out of nowhere, and even being made to practice…

“I’m really sorry… You see, because of my job, whenever I notice acting that feels off, I just can’t help but speak up…”

“Ahaha… Please don’t worry about it that much. Thinking seriously about acting is very voice-actor-like, and I think that’s a good thing.”

Still, there’s no denying that the date atmosphere was ruined. Before moving on to the next attraction, I want to reset things somehow.

Looking around for an idea, my eyes land on a soft-serve ice cream stand nearby.

“Um, Nene-chan. You must be a bit tired—how about taking a break and getting some soft-serve ice cream?”

“Oh, that sounds nice. I like ice cream.”

Though she had been feeling down, her expression brightens a little. Good. Let’s get back into a fun mood together.

We head over to the stand and order two soft-serve cones. A gyaru-looking woman who seems like a part-timer cheerfully takes our order with an 『Azama~su!』 Then we step a little away from the stand to wait for the ice cream.

[TLN: “Azama~su! (あざまーす)” is casual slang, mainly used by gyaru or young part-timers, derived from 「ありがとうございます」(arigatou gozaimasu). It’s a shortened, playful way of saying “Thank you very much,” often sounding cheerful or informal.]

“It’s expensive when you buy it at places like this, but I can never resist.”

“I know what you mean. There’s just something irresistibly tempting about it.”

We chat casually while waiting for the soft-serve.

“Huh…? Isn’t this kinda bad…? Like, seriously…?”

At that moment, the female clerk mutters something ominous.

“Aaaah〜〜! What is this, what’s going ooon!? I seriously hate this~! This is the worst!”

That doesn’t sound good. I start to get worried.

“Do you think she’s okay…? Maybe there’s some kind of trouble…”

“I’ll go check it out. Nene-chan, please wait on that bench from earlier.”

Leaving Nene-chan behind, I head back to the stand and talk to the clerk.

“Um… is something wrong?”

“Aaah! Sorry, Ogyaku-san, like, super sorry! It kinda looks like the soft-serve machine broke~! Pien!”

[TLN:“ぴえん (pien)” is a cute, exaggerated crying sound, used playfully to show mild sadness or apology.

Whoa, seriously…? That actually happens…? Today really hasn’t been my day…

Also, her casual tone is kind of wild. You don’t usually hear pien in customer service.

“But, like! I barely managed to make one cone! I’ll refund the price for one—could you let it slide with just that~?”

“Ah, sure. If it’s broken, it can’t be helped… One is fine.”

Then I’ll just let Nene-chan have it. It’s disappointing, but oh well.

“Yay~! Thanks, Ogyaku-san! Oh, but… maybe this is actually better, right~? Now you can share the same ice cream with your girlfriend♪”

“Huh!?”

Caught off guard, I blurt out as I take the ice cream.

“That’s like a classic date thing, right? Sharing one ice cream while flirting!”

“R-really…? Is that how it is…?”

“Totally. I’ve been working here for like a year, and I see couples doing that all the time! Both of them eating from opposite sides of one ice cream! Isn’t that kinda sexy?”

I have no idea. I’ve never seen that. But… I see. If that’s something normal couples do…

Then maybe we should do it too. For Nene-chan’s realistic acting.

“Alrighty, thanks as always~! Have fun with your girlfriend~!”

Sent off by the overly friendly clerk, I return to the bench where Nene-chan is waiting and explain that the machine broke and there’s only one ice cream.

“I see. Well, if the machine broke, it can’t be helped… Then please go ahead and eat it, Kanata-kun.”

Just as I expected, Nene-chan tries to give it to me. I respond by making the suggestion I heard earlier.

“Um… Nene-chan. If you’re okay with it, how about we eat it together…? This…”

“Eh…?”

“I heard from the clerk that sharing one ice cream is apparently pretty normal. So, as a couple, I thought maybe…”

“I-is that so…!? But that might be a little embarrassing…”

Unexpectedly, Nene-chan’s cheeks turn red. She’s usually the type to hug me or press her chest against me without hesitation, so I thought she wouldn’t be shy—but maybe she’s weak to this kind of thing…

If that’s the case, then all the more reason to try it, for the sake of experiencing pure romantic excitement. Thinking that, I continue to encourage her.

“This might help you really feel that fluttering feeling of being in love. For that purpose, I don’t think it’s a loss to try.”

“Y-you’re right…! Okay then… let’s do it before it melts…!”

Having steeled her resolve, Nene-chan looks at the soft-serve. I sit beside her, and we hold the ice cream together.

“Then… let’s eat it at the same time…!”

“Y-yeah…! Itadakimasu…”

Nene-chan says, bringing her mouth closer to the ice cream. I move at the same time.

I can feel our mouths naturally getting extremely close—almost like we’re about to kiss.

Then, from opposite sides, we both take a bite of the soft-serve.

“Nn… ahm…”

Nene-chan lets out a small sound as she licks the ice cream. Just like the clerk said, her breathing somehow sounds… kind of obscene.

Yeah… this really is more erotic than I expected…

With our faces this close, licking the same ice cream, our tongues might even touch. That distance is more than enough to make the heart of a virgin like me go wild.

After the first bite, I hurriedly pull my face away from the ice cream and ask Nene-chan.

“S-so… how is it…? Any thoughts…?”

Does Nene-chan get flustered by something like an indirect “aahn” too? Is she fine with bold erotic teasing, but embarrassed by this kind of pure yet slightly sexy flirting? Wondering that, I ask her.

And then—

“I-it’s delicious…! This ice cream…!”

A slightly off-target answer comes back.

“K-Kanata-kun…! This is good! This soft-serve is really good! It’s totally different from the ones they sell at supermarkets!”

Well, yeah, of course it’s good. Stuff like this is expensive.

But that’s not the point right now. We’re talking about romantic excitement. For the record, I didn’t even notice the taste.

“This is the best ice cream I’ve ever had… The texture is nice, it’s creamy and satisfying… but not heavy at all. It’s like a miracle food…!”

Nene-chan is clearly moved. It seems romance is the last thing on her mind right now. She’s more in love with the soft-serve than with me, her boyfriend role.

“Um… if you’d like, you can eat the rest too, Nene-chan…”

“Eh!? Really!?”

She turns to me with an expression like she just won the lottery.

At this rate, there’s no point in trying to flirt anyway. If so, it’s better to just let her enjoy the delicious ice cream.

When I nod, Nene-chan’s smile grows even brighter.

“Thank you, Kanata-kun! I’ll follow you for the rest of my life!”

“No, you don’t need to be that grateful.”

I let go of the ice cream.

Nene-chan brings it to her mouth and carefully licks it.

“Mmm… sweet and delicious…♪”

Her eyes sparkle, and she shows a beaming smile I’ve never seen before. It’s an expression of happiness so pure that it’s hard to imagine it coming from her usual cool self.

Until she finished the soft-serve, that smile never once left her face.

Meanwhile, I watched her happily munch on the ice cream with a strangely fulfilled feeling in my chest.

 

※

 

After that, we went on a few more attractions, ate lunch together, and enjoyed our park date.

And after we’d played around to our heart’s content, as we walked through the park, I asked Nene-chan once again.

“So, how was it…? We did most of the things couples usually like to do at an theme park, but… do you think you understand Shino’s feelings now?”

“Hmm… well… to be honest, it’s kind of hard to say. Of course, playing around like this is really fun, but… I don’t really feel that fluttery, romantic excitement… that sweet-and-sour feeling of love, you know? Holding hands did make my heart race a little, though…”

Nene-chan said this with a troubled look on her face. As expected, it seems she still doesn’t quite grasp the pure feelings of a girl in love.

“It’s like… it’s different from what I imagined. The roller coaster was honestly so scary I was just trying to survive, and in the haunted house and the shows, I ended up focusing more on the staff’s acting… I thought an amusement park date would be more exciting, more heart-pounding than this, but…”

“I see… so it still doesn’t really feel real to you…”

Maybe it’s because I’m not her real boyfriend that I just don’t measure up…

No— I can’t give up. My role is to help Nene-chan have a simulated experience of love, so she can portray a pure high school girl who’s in love. If I can’t do that, she’ll probably slip back into her usual sexy-style acting without realizing it, and fail the audition.

For her sake, I have to do something.

“I’m sorry, Kanata-kun… for dragging you into this… I think this is enough for now. I don’t want to trouble you any more, so let’s head home today. I’ll think about the rest on my own.”

“What are you saying, Nene-chan!? We’ve come this far—I’m sticking with you to the end! Let’s keep researching what makes dates fun, together! I want you to pass the audition too!”

“K-Kanata-kun…! Thank you…”

That said, what on earth could I do to make Nene-chan’s heart race? And how could we find an acting plan for 『Himemiya Shino』?

I don’t have any real romantic experience myself, so this is an incredibly difficult problem. What else can we even do here, at this theme park…?

“Mommy… Mommy, where are you…?”

Right as I was racking my brain, I suddenly heard a voice nearby. Turning around, I saw a small girl—probably around five years old—standing there.

“Mommy… Mommy… sniff”

With tears welling in her eyes, the girl looked around restlessly. There didn’t seem to be any adult nearby who looked like her guardian.

“That child… could she be lost?”

“Looks like it… Shall we try talking to her?”

We can’t just leave a little girl like that alone. I walked over to her and crouched down, gently speaking to her.

“Hey there. Are you maybe lost?”

“Pew…!?”

The moment I spoke, the girl flinched and turned toward me. Her eyes were glossy with fear, and she took a small step back from me.

…Why does it feel like I’m doing something wrong, even though I’m just trying to help a lost child?

“Um… it’s dangerous to be alone, you know? Did you get separated from your mom?”

“…………!”

“What’s your name? Could you tell oni-san?”

“………… (tremble tremble)”

No good. She’s completely terrified.

“Uh… you don’t have to be scared, okay? I’m on your side.”

“……Mama said… I shouldn’t…”

“Huh?”

“Mama said not to talk… to suspicious people…”

Suspicious person… suspicious person… suspicious person…

The girl’s words, said with tear-filled eyes, stabbed straight into my ＭＰ.

“L-Look… I’m not a suspicious person, okay? I’m not a criminal or a lolicon—just a perfectly normal, decent guy!”

“…… (tremble)”

“Oh, I know! I’ll give you some candy as proof. I brought it to pass the time while waiting in line. Want some Ro〇ta? It’s tasty!”

“…… (tremble tremble tremble)”

“And in return, come with oni-san, okay? I’ll take you to the Maigo center.”

[TLN: “Maigo center” means a lost-and-found center for lost children]

“…… uuh… hic… (shiver shiver)”

Why is it that every time I open my mouth, she starts shaking even more? She’s on the verge of crying now.

“Sorry, wait, Kanata-kun. You’re trying to reassure her, but you’re just making yourself look more suspicious. You look like someone trying really hard to kidnap her.”

“What!?”

No way… that actually hurts… Am I really the kind of guy kids don’t trust…?

“Just switch places with me. I’ll try talking to her.”

Saying that, Nene-chan swapped positions with me. She knelt down on the ground and spoke to the girl.

“There, there… I’m sorry, okay? He didn’t mean to scare you. Onee-san's here now, so everything’s fine, alright?”

“Fweh…?”

Nene-chan’s calm, gentle voice caught the girl’s attention. The child, who had been on the verge of tears, stared up at Nene-chan’s face.

“Being all alone must’ve been scary, huh? But onee-san’s on your side. If you want, can you tell me your name?”

“U-Um… I’m… Yuina…”

“Yuina-chan? Wow, what a lovely name! Did you come here with your mommy today?”

“Y-Yeah…! And my dad too. Both of them are really kind!”

Unlike with me, the little girl immediately opened up her heart.

But it’s no wonder. Nene-chan’s current expression and voice were so gentle and soothing that they could put a lost child at ease.

Her calm, relaxed tone healed the listener’s heart. She spoke in a slightly lower voice than usual, probably intentionally. She expressed emotion clearly, but never got excited. She kept a smile on her face at all times, speaking with a composed, reassuring voice and manner.

As expected of a voice actress. A true performer of voices. She was easing the child’s fear in a way I couldn’t even manage.

“I see. You have good parents. But getting lost must’ve been tough. Let’s find them together, shall we? I think I have an idea of where they might be.”

“Yeah! In times like this, I need to stay strong for them!”

Skillfully keeping the child engaged, Nene-chan held her hand and started walking. She whispered to me in a small voice, 『Shall we go to the Maigo center like this?』

Pathetically, there was nothing I could do now. I stayed a little behind, making sure not to get in their way, and followed the two of them.

 

※

 

“Mmm~! It feels so good after doing something nice~!”

After delivering the child to the Maigo center, Nene-chan stretched, looking completely satisfied with herself.

At the center, the child’s parents had already come to inquire, and the announcement was just about to be made. Nene-chan handed Yuina over to them, receiving a flood of thanks before leaving the place.

“Still… how did you manage to make a child who was about to cry smile so quickly…? I didn’t have the slightest idea what to do…”

Even as a voice actress, anyone would normally be flustered when seeing a lost child. It would be hard to immediately calm Yuina down like Nene-chan did and put her acting into practice so naturally.

But Nene-chan said it without boasting.

“I was a little confused at first too, you know? But…”

“But…?”

“But I always think about it. 『As a voice actress, I want to make everyone smile with my voice, anytime.』”

Instead of the teasing smile she usually shows, Nene-chan’s expression was pure and innocent.

“You know, when I was little, my family used to go to karaoke a lot… and every time I sang something, my parents would be so happy. Almost ridiculously so. I was really glad about it at the time, and I even got a little full of myself, thinking, 『I can make people smile with my singing—my voice!』”

It made sense. If a small child sings, parents tend to exaggerate their praise. With a voice as beautiful as Nene-chan’s, it would be even more impactful.

“That’s what first inspired me to pursue work with my voice. Later, I looked into different jobs using my voice, like singer or announcer, and eventually settled on becoming a voice actress.”

“I see… I didn’t know that…”

Hearing Nene-chan’s story about how she became a voice actress made me feel like I was being let in on something special.

“So, I always think this way: 『I want to make people smile with my voice. I want them to feel happy.』 That’s why, earlier, I was able to act naturally like that, I think.”

“I see… So in other words, you’re saying you really take your role as a voice actress really seriously?”

“It’s not that grand or anything. But… it might be something similar.”

She said that, showing a smile that carried a quiet confidence.

“Well then. Let’s keep our date going a little longer. Since we’ve come this far, it would be a shame not to do anything else, right?”

“Y-Yeah… Now that it’s come to this, let’s enjoy it until the very end!”

The date plan I had made was technically complete. But having come here as a temporary couple, we should continue enjoying the date.

And so, we continued our makeshift date until the sun began to set.

 

※

 

"Haa… In the end, I still don’t really understand the thrill of love…"

After the date, we were on the train, heading back to the nearest station.

Just as Nene-chan said, even after spending a whole day on a date, there wasn’t much to show for it. She still hadn’t grasped an acting plan for 『Himemiya Shino』.

“Yeah… I’m sorry, Nene-chan. It’s all my fault for not being able to help…”

“Ah…! No, that’s not it! It’s definitely because I’m clueless about love!”

Nene-chan flusteredly tried to reassure me. I knew she wasn’t really blaming me, but still… I felt overwhelmingly sorry.

“I’m really sorry too… Even though you went through all this trouble for a date… But I won’t let today’s experience go to waste! Actually going on the date will surely help improve my acting a little!”

“Yeah… I hope that’s the case…”

“Exactly! Before I forget this experience, I have to start practicing right away! The audition is in five days, so there isn’t much time left!”

Saying that, Nene-chan started fidgeting nervously. Just then, we reached the shopping street, and she headed toward her home.

“Well then, see you later, Kanata-kun! I’ll make sure to properly thank you next time!”

“Ah, um! Nene-chan! Wait a moment!”

I called out to her, a little more firmly than usual.

“Eh…? What is it? You’re raising your voice…”

“Well… Today’s purpose was to find a way for you to act as a female character outside of the sexy type, right? As a first step, you tried to learn the feelings of a girl in love, right?”

“Y-Yeah… That’s right. Himemiya Shino isn’t a sexy-type character I usually play…”

“Then I think I might have found it… A way for Nene-chan to act as a female character outside the sexy type.”

“Eh…? R-Really!?”

Nene-chan leaned toward me as if she couldn’t believe it.

“What do you mean? How can I act as a female character who isn’t sexy!?”

“It’s simple. You just need to strongly bring out Nene-chan’s charm.”

“My… charm…? Does that mean it’s still just sexy acting…?”

Nene-chan’s charm was, of course, her sexy performance. I didn’t doubt that. But it wasn’t just that. She had more to offer.

“Another one of your charms… is your calm and gentle voice. Today proved that.”

Nene-chan had just calmed down a lost child with that voice and smile. A girl who was about to cry after being separated from her parents. That’s not easy to do.

“Your charm isn’t only your clear sexy voice. But also, a calm and gentle voice capable of soothing even a lost child is a powerful tool. If you use that, you can create a new type of performance.”

“I-I see…!”

Perhaps it was hard for Nene-chan to act as a pure, love-struck girl. But if she approached it not as a romantic role but simply as a calm, gentle girl, it would probably be easier to portray.

“Even for love-related scenes like a date, if you base the character on that calm personality, it should be easier to think about! Acting as a gentle character using your calm voice should shape up better than trying to perform as a sexy type!”

“Indeed… that was a blind spot! But… is my voice really that calm and gentle…? Honestly, I’m not sure if that’s truly charming…”

It seemed hard for Nene-chan to properly recognize the qualities of her own voice.

To her unsure tone, I spoke firmly.

“Of course it is! When you spoke to the child today, your voice was amazing! I’ve never heard such a gentle and soothing voice! I… I love that voice… and I love Nene-chan for being able to produce it!”

“…………!”

I loved that voice of hers as a voice actress. Almost as much as my favorite, Ai-chan.

“So please, use that voice in your acting! Use that voice to make Himemiya Shino an amazing character! That’s how much charm your calm and beautiful voice has!”

“W-Wait… Kanata-kun… Please… stop saying so much…”

Before I knew it, Nene-chan was bright red.

Seeing that, I realized I might have overpraised her right in front of her…

“S-Sorry! Nene-chan! I… I just said a lot…”

“N-No… it’s fine… Actually, I… I’m happy… It’s the first time someone praised my voice that much…”

Unlike her usual teasing self, Nene-chan looked genuinely embarrassed.

But it didn’t last long. She quickly pulled herself together.

“But… that approach might actually be good…! I’ll try it, just like you said!”

“Y-Yes! Do your best! I’ll be cheering for you!”

Finally, Nene-chan’s acting direction was decided. From here, it was up to her role preparation and practice. There was nothing more I could do.

“Then I’ll head home too. Please tell me the results another day!”

As I said that, I started heading back home where Ai-chan was waiting. This time, I needed to help her with her concerns about the radio program. I wanted to get back quickly.

“Ah. Wait a moment, Kanata-kun.”

But this time, Nene-chan called out to me.

“Hey, Kanata-kun… I think I might understand it a little. Himemiya Shino’s feeling of excitement in love.”

“Eh? Really!? That’s great!”

If she understood that, it would give her more hints for portraying Himemiya Shino. It would be a big advantage for her.

“Huh…? But… how did you suddenly understand it? Until just now, even after the date, you didn’t get it at all…”

“That’s… thanks to you, Kanata-kun♪”

She said that and winked at me.

“Eh…? That means──”

Before I could finish speaking, Nene-chan suddenly leaned in close.

──Chu.

A soft sensation on my cheek. I froze, not understanding what had just happened.

“Eh… w-what!?”

Was that… a kiss… on the cheek!?

“You recognized so much about me, right? And you told me you loved me… so I got really excited… That’s why… that was my thank you. Thank you for teaching me about love…♪”

“…………!”

Nene-chan’s sly smile. H-Hey… wait a second… I didn’t expect a kiss, even on the cheek…!

No, calm down… stay calm, me…! This is perfectly normal in some foreign countries as a greeting! Surely Nene-chan meant it like that── but her face is still burning hot…!

“Kanata…? What are you doing…?”

“Eh…?”

I heard a familiar voice and turned around in surprise.

There she was… Ai-chan.

『A…』

Our voices overlapped. Apparently, she had seen it.

She had seen the exact moment Nene-chan kissed my cheek.