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Dear readers, This is the last chapter of "A Monk's Lovesickness". Am I the only one who doesn't want to end this? Probably, LOL. I can't help but yearn for someone like Soushun-san. Now that it has come to an end, I can finally focus on "Hero Suddenly Proposed". The first chapter of the third volume will be released this weekend, as well as the second chapter for the donors. ^_^ I'm excited to follow Aria and Greed's journey with you, guys. See you~ Epilogue - Kano’s Newly-Married Life It is the day before the wedding. Today is the last day of my single life at home. Up until now, the days went by without me being particularly conscious of it, but when I do leave home, I will feel lonely. As is often seen on TV and dramas, the bride would feel this before the wedding…… I wonder if my family would feel as lonely as I am. Thinking that way, I asked everyone what they were feeling at the time of the family get-together dinner. “Well, today is the last night of my singlehood, but are you going to become lonely when I get married?” I addressed this to my father, mother and younger brother, and after a moment, my mother answered.
“About that…… I’m definitely going to become lonely, but Hazekura-san’s temple is just a couple of minutes by car from here, right? It’s not far…… Rather than that, it worries me that my son-in-law is such a handsome man! I have to prepare my skin for tomorrow’s wedding, so I will take a bath and sleep early today.” “……O-Okay.” The condition of your skin is more important, huh…… Me too. I have to be early tomorrow so I’ll go to bed early, but…… I put it out of my mind and looked at my father. Originally, he isn’t too talkative, but I know he will say something on the day before the wedding…… “Since it is a Buddhist ceremony, then you won’t have to walk with your father, right?” [T/N: walk down the aisle.] “Ah, yes.” I rehearsed it in advance so I’m familiar with the Buddhist wedding ceremony. I will not walk down the wedding aisle with my arms linked with my father like that in a church wedding. [T/N: Trivia! Wedding aisle in Japanese is “virgin road” =) ] After rehearsing, I found out that the Buddhist ceremony is surprisingly calm and wonderful. Rather, I think this is more suitable for me. Then my father resumed eating again, looking relieved. Yep, I think that’s what my father only cared about. As my last favor, I looked at the face of my younger brother sitting next to me. However, my brother’s expression is no different than usual. “Even Tasuku doesn’t feel that……” When I blurted my irresponsible remark out of petulance, Tasuku unexpectedly replied, “That’s not true.” “I’ll be lonely. I’ll be lonely but . . . I’m so happy that such person would become my brother-in-law…… That would be cool! His calmness is his manly charm, you know—” “.…..Oh, is that so?” On the bright side, it is a good thing that my family likes my husband-to-be. Yes, I think so…… “Anyway, congratulations! Please be happy, Sister!” Tasuku concluded the conversation and raised a glass of beer. Following him, my father and my mother raised their glasses in the same way. Looking at them, the feeling of petulance that I felt immediately disappeared, I once again felt great joy. “Yes, thank you!” With the blessings of my family, I will become a wife tomorrow. My last night as Kuzuhara Kano passed by with laughter with my family. It is the wedding day. The weather is beautiful and clear. Various things happened, but I managed to reach this point. “Let’s do this!” Suppressing my excitement, I left home with more motivation than before. The bride, who has to do a lot of preparations, should be in the anteroom early in the morning. I drove the car myself to the temple of the Hazekura family, where the ceremony will be held. Yes. I actually have a driver’s license. Though I’m just someone who is licensed but with little experience. But, it will be likely needed when I marry so I took the initiative and took the driving course at the driving school. After all, I just can’t put Shun-san’s name in the license, can I? But I wonder if Shun-san would drive my car……? I still don’t know, but it is important for me to be able to drive should an emergency arise. When I arrived at the temple, Shun-san is waiting for me near the gate. The moment he saw my face, the relief was evident on his face. “Kano-san……! I’m glad you arrived safely. I was worried until I saw you.” Does that mean he does not trust my driving skills? Shun-san’s attitude made me smother my laugh. “I told you it would be all right because the roads will be empty in the early morning, right?” “Still, I was worried. I don’t know what I will do should anything happen to you.” —He’s saying those things again…… Suddenly feeling shy, I turned away from him and parked my car at the parking lot of the temple. “I’ve been looking forward to this day. It’s finally here. Come, I will show you the anteroom.” Shun-san tugged my hand and we went to the guest room of the Hazekura family’s house, which will serve as the anteroom. A hairdresser was already waiting there. I made a polite greeting. At that moment, I saw the white bridal gown in the corner of the room. Immediately, my body tensed in anxiety. —The time has finally come. The memories I had ever since the day I met Shun-san were revived like surging waves. But when I recalled just now his sudden proposal, and I laughed inwardly. Really, it was coercion. But I was surprised with myself at how much I came to love him. Even while I was indulging in my emotions, the members of the wedding staff continued their work. As expected of professionals…… Impressed with their skills, I watched them work. And then, I, Kuzuhara Kano, and Hazekura Soushun solemnly performed the exclusive Buddhist wedding ceremony in front of our relatives. My attire is pure white. The hairstyle to match with it is called new Japanese coiffure, which is made up of your own hair without using a wig. After discussing it with Shun-san, I decided to go with this because I liked it. Shun-san, who saw me wearing the white kimono, was motionless for a while. Today, he is dressed in his full priest robes. Despite the familiar appearance, he looked dignified than usual today which is a special day, and I am fascinated by it. “Wh-What is it……? Please say something……” Feeling uneasy, I broke the long silence and Shun-san put a hand on his chest and finally spoke. “You’re beautiful, truly……!! I could not speak for a while because of your beauty.” “……Th-Thank you very much.” He complimented me a little bit sweeter than usual, and I felt my nervousness ease a little. However, I was so nervous during the ceremony that I almost had no memory of it. But I would be suffused with warmth from time to time whenever I saw Shun-san smile at me and the expressions of my happy parents. As a result, I felt that the ceremony had a very good atmosphere. After the Buddhist wedding ceremony, I changed my pure white clothes to a colorful wedding kimono and had light dinner with all our relatives. After a short break, the party relocated to the hotel and a reception was held for invited friends and related parties. The wedding dress I wore at the reception is a classical one. Shun-san chose the elegant off-shoulder A-line dress. “It goes well with your beautiful curves. I won’t be able to take my eyes off you.” When I was changing my dress at the hotel, Shun-san would say such things even in front of the wedding staff, so I scolded him. However, he didn’t seem to mind it and just laughed instead. At the reception, Shun-san wore a shiny gray tuxedo to match my dress. He’s so cool! He looked so good, and I was giddy with that destructive power. The reception started at 6 o’clock in the evening. It is our wedding night, and the hotel’s illuminations that can be seen through the large windows and the warm and fantastic display of many candles were very well received by the guests. Among them, the group of monks attracted more attention compared to those who were well-dressed. At the relatives’ table, I finally met Shun-san’s brother. Shun-san’s younger brother is called Hazekura Munemitsu. “I’m pleased to meet you. Please treat me kindly from now on, Sister-in-law.” His younger brother, who I met for the first time when I was introduced to his relatives before the wedding, said to me and smiled. Munemitsu is currently majoring in Buddhist studies at a graduate school of a Buddhist university. In the future, of course, he plans to become a monk, and it seems that there is a temple without a successor somewhere, which he will inherit. He is kind and friendly, just like their mother, and has a cheerful personality. His appearance is not much different from that of Shun-san, and he seemed popular with women. If Munemitsu-san would enter the temple one day, he might also be flooded with applications for matchmaking just like Shun-san…… I will keep that thought in my mind. My friends, whom I met after a few years, were very pleased with the reunion and the marriage. However, the thing that everyone was most worried about was Shun-san, the groom. “Kano…… It was totally unexpected that you were going to live in the temple, but please do your best!” “Kano…… Your husband has loads of pheromones…… You caught an amazing person……” “Kano…… A Buddhist priest, so lucky!! Thanks for the happiness and moe!!” Et cetera, et cetera…… There were various reactions. The program began with the entrance of the bride and groom, then there is the entertainment of retelling of our love story and the speech of our friends. Again, we changed our clothes after that and after I have changed into a red cocktail dress, we re-entered the reception and did a candlelight service. I’ve rehearsed it in my mind, but when the moment came, it was so fast that the time passed in no time. [T/N: According to jisho.org, candlelight service is a ceremony during a wedding reception where the bride and the groom go from table to table lighting a candle at each. I never heard of this before. And it’s not also practiced in our culture.] —I-I’m hungry…… A dish of sauteed foie gras was placed in front of me, which looks absolutely delicious. I want to eat so much, but I have almost no time to eat. Shun-san chatted with his friends who came to greet us and his food is also untouched. —Ooohhh…… I heard from the wedding staff a while ago that I will have no time to eat, and it was true…… How miserable. As I drooped my shoulders, one of the invited guests approached me cheerily. “Kuzuhara-san! Congratulations on your marriage!” It was Yokota-san, who greeted me with a cute voice. “Yokota-san, thank you for coming today.” “No, it is I who should thank you for inviting me. Kuzuhara-san, your wedding is so wonderful! I also want to wear a wedding dress.” Yokota-san, who is wearing a cute light pink dress, stared at my dress with rapt attention. “Yokota-san, I’m sure you’ll be able to wear it soon. Speaking of which, are you getting along with your boyfriend well?” When I asked her, Yokota-san’s cheeks blushed and she nodded. “Yes! It might be my illusion, but we’re so much in love! He’s so kind to me.” Ah—I see, he is the quiet type. If I remember it right, he talks a little but he looks at the energetic Yokota-san with kind eyes. “I think you suit each other. It feels like you don’t quarrel.” Yokota-san then slumped her shoulders and replied, “That’s not the case, though.” “We quarreled with a little thing before. The reason was that he went out with a girl I knew. At that time, I just went and gave him a rolling savate and he immediately apologized to me.” ……Hehe…… Rolling Savate: It is a professional wrestling technique, the so-called flying back kick. “……Yokota-san, you also do pro-wresling?” “Hehe. Just a little.” Saying that with a cute giggle, her potential is immeasurable. The party ended late at night. I’ve been busy preparing since early this morning, and I’m so worn-out. The reception finished with a speech from me then from Shun-san. In between taking pictures, we saw everyone off. It was fun to see my friends after a long time, and I’m glad that Shun-san was kind to my friends. It was tough, but I think it was a good ceremony. We sent everyone off, returned to the anteroom and prepared for the return trip. After thanking the wedding staff, Shun-san and I left the hotel. “Thank you for your hard work today.” Shun-san told me as soon as we got into the taxi. “Shun-san, you too. You will be back to normal tomorrow morning, right? If you fail to get up early, you’ll be in trouble, so please sleep early when we return.” “Thank you very much. Getting up early is no problem for me, so it’s okay.” Shun-san, who always has a serene expression, grinned at me. Seeing this situation, I think this person still has spare energy. In contrast, I’m already exhausted. Looking sweetly at the weight of my bridal gown…… As soon as we got home, I laid down on the sofa in the living room. “I’m so tired……” I want to take my time soaking in the bath and relieve the stiffness of my shoulders.….. With that in mind, I remove the hairpins one by one from the loosely set hair. “……Is that amount of hairpins used for that hairstyle? I see…… It’s tough to be a woman.” Shun-san became speechless when he saw the pile of hairpins I had removed. And he must have been tired, but he brewed tea and even prepared the bath. Ugh . . . what a good husband. Wait, it means I’m already showing him that I’m a useless wife…… Ugh, I can feel my future just with the first day of our marriage. [T/N: No, your husband is just so, so, so perfect! Ugh, dying of jealousy here.] “Thank you. I should be the one doing this, and I feel pathetic for not doing that on our wedding night…… Shun-san, are you not tired?” “I am. But even if I’m tired, just looking at how beautiful you are…… I was consumed with happiness.” He smiled as he replied. Thrilled with his smile, I looked away from him. “Oh, stop it…… Don’t kid me anymore. You need to get up early tomorrow, so don’t mind me and please take your rest.” When I got up from the sofa to go to the bathroom, he grabbed me by my arm. My body sank on Shun-san’s lap when I noticed it. “Eh? What—” “We’re officially married, right? Please take care of me, my wife.” Shun-san smiled at my shocked expression as he held me by my waist. That’s right. We also submitted our marriage registration at the reception a while ago, so we officially became a couple in the family register. —So I became Hazekura Kano! “Same here. P-Please take care of me……!” I was about to say “my husband” but my lips were sealed before I can utter it. “Fuuu……!” It was a tough night, but Shun-san’s kiss is aggressive as always. Cradling my face in his big hands, he nibbled my lips, sucked my tongue and traced the insides of my mouth with his tongue. I can barely keep up with his fierce kiss. “Hnnnggg…… Uhhh……” He kissed me violently even as he sneaked his hand under my clothes. As he slowly slid his hand over my bare skin, he touched the bulge directly from under my bra. Perhaps, we are going to consummate the first night of the newly-weds……? At that thought, I hurriedly broke off from the kiss and blocked his lips with my hand. “……Ho-Hold it, Shun-san……” Shun-san raised one eyebrow in dissatisfaction and waited. But he did not stop the movement of his hand. He waited for me to speak as he kneaded my breast. “I’m aware it’s our first night as newly-weds, at least after taking a bath……” “Wait, Shun-san. Don’t tell me……?” “It’s the bath, isn’t it? Since you’re troubled by it, let’s take a bath together.” Shun-san smiled and invited me to the bathroom. I knew it. So it has come to this……! “Shu-Shun-san……!! That’s not what I meant! It is . . . That is……” I didn’t mean to do that at all. Feeling upset, I grabbed the sleeve of his clothes as he walked towards the bathroom and tried to resist at least. However-- “We’ve seen each others’ naked bodies many times so you are not ashamed now, right?” When he said that with a smile like a bodhisattva and turned around, I couldn’t say anything. “……I-I understand……” After confirming my thoughts, Mr. Shun grabbed my hand and opened the door leading to the bathroom. “Kano-san? Why are you turning your back?” “……Please guess.” The scent of freshly renovated wood, which was Shun-san’s favorite, drifted in the bathroom. Although it is a modular bathroom, the walls and bathtub are made of wood, which gives you an impression that you are in a hot spring inn. I was looking forward to using it, but suddenly, it began like this…… The bathtub is large enough for two adults, and I sat with my back to Shun-san. Because the sex appeal of the dripping wet Shun-san is so great that I got shy when I look directly at him. —But he did not seem to like it. “I’d like to see your beautiful face since we’re in the same room…… well, your back is also beautiful.” When he said that, Shun-san’s finger poked . . . and traced my back. My shoulders jerked when the shivers ran down my body. “Kyaaa! Shun-san……” When I turned around shrieking, I saw Shun-san, who was looking at me with a come-hither expression, leaning with his elbows on the bathtub. My heart beat fast at his gaze. “You finally looked at me.” Delighted, Shun-san approached me. And when he put his hand at the back of my head and pulled me towards him, he bit my lips. “Hnnnggg…… Uhhh……” “Kano……” I felt lightheaded as if I was having a fever. It’s not because we’re in the bathroom. A kiss that feels like being eaten by a carnivore, and his low, sweet voice which seems to echo to my hips. This alone was enough to arouse my lust and slowly moisten my lower body. At a close distance, Shun-san gazed at me as he regretfully broke the kiss. His look was mesmerizing that I was having trouble on how to respond. “Uhm, Shun-san……. Please don’t stare at me like that.” “That’s impossible……Your pinkish cheeks are so cute. And also, here……” Shun-san’s hand snaked around my waist and pulled me towards him tightly. His other hand touched the swell of my breast and gently caressed the nub with his finger. “Ahhh……” “It’s engorged and looks delicious.” When he said that, he turned his attention to my chest and held the rose-colored bud in his mouth. As he licked the bud with his thick tongue in his hot mouth, I could not stop panting. “Haaa…… Hnnnnggg……” I put my arms around his neck and arched my back as I writhed in pleasure. The gesture made me stick my chest out to him, and his caress on my chest became more intense. Continuing to lick the bud with his tongue, he pinched the other bud tightly while gently rubbing the breast. “Ah—” My body shook violently. “Hey . . . Shun-san……” His long fingers quickly reached for my crevice, and soon begin to slowly move back and forth as if searching for my spot. “My finger smoothly went in. Does it feel good, Kano?” “~~…” —You already knew without asking, right…… Shun-san, you meanie! Seeing me glare at him with moist eyes, Shun-san exhaled and said with self-derision. “My bad. I felt too happy. Should I add another finger?” He inserted another finger, and two fingers now rubbed my insides. The two fingers, moving in different directions, surely brought me to heights. “Ahhh— Mmmm, nooo……” “You’re getting more and more wet inside.” I let out a hot sigh and shook my head in protest at Shun-san, who continued to torment me with his fingers. “I-I’m sorry…… But Shun-san won’t be able to come, you know……?” I wanted to take a bath, but we ended up doing such a naughty thing…… I felt petulant so Shun-san gently stroked my back to soothe me. “I’m sorry, Kano. You were so cute that I wasn’t able to stop myself…… Then, should we stop here?” “What……” I unconsciously responded with disappointment. I was about to say, ‘You really want to stop?’, I hurriedly clamped my mouth shut. Shun-san stared at me and grinned. “……Here? Or in bed?” The very pleased Shun-san rested his arms on the edge of the bathtub and waited for my reply. “Uhhh . . . In bed, please.” It’s frustrating but . . . he could see through my mind. “I completely understand. Well then, let’s go?” While watching the lean body of Shun-san leaving the bathtub, I also managed to move my well-caressed and weak body and left the bathtub. As we moved to the bed, we immediately devour each others’ lips eagerly. We have made love with each other in this house for a few times in the past, but it was our first night as officially married couple, so I was more nervous than usual. Moving his lips to my neck and to my chest, Shun-san gently licked around the areola and inserted his long fingers in my honey pot. His deeply sunk fingers slowly stirred me inside. “Hnnng…… Ahhh—!” “It’s pretty wet…… here, can you hear the sound?” He rubbed the inside producing an obscene sound, as if to intentionally let me know. Hearing the sound, I covered my face with my hands. “Please don’t say embarrassing things……” “I’m not embarrassing you. I’m happy. That you want me when you’re acting like this……” Afterwards, Shun-san pulled out his fingers and slowly inserted his hot, thick thing. “Hnnnngggg……” His impressive thing made my body tremble. Haaa…… Exhaling an alluring sigh, Shun-san leaned down on me and whispered in my ear. “……I won’t use contraception anymore. Is it okay?” I idly nodded at him. After my confirmation, Shun-san lifted his body a little and started thrusting into me. “Ahhhnnnn!” “Kano……” He poked the superficial part of my vagina several times then pierced through the deepest part at once. “Shun-san……! Ah~ Ah~…… Hnnnggg……!” The stimulus that ran through my body and his scent that surrounds me made me dizzy with desire. Slap, slap. The sound of our bodies joining with each other echoed in the bedroom. While being pierced by his hardness over and over again, I hugged his head and gave in to the pleasure. “……I felt thrilled when you called my name……” Out of breath, Shun-san muttered and chuckled delightedly. If you say that, it makes me want to call your name over and over again. But right now, my mouth could only produce a satisfied sigh. In addition, the lewd watery squelch, squelch sound, made me realize how wet I am. “Mmmmm…… It’s embarrassing……” I didn’t mean to say it, but it just popped out of my mouth. “Aren’t you a shy one, Kano……? I love your modesty.” I felt his thing became stiffer. When I noticed it, I cast him a confused look. “Huh……? Bi-Bigger……” “You’re mine now . . . Kano. I love you, forever.” Hugging me tightly, Shun-san whispered words of love. Afterwards, the thrusting of his hips became more vigorous and my body shook up and down violently. I clung to his body, perhaps in preparation for the upcoming climax. “Ah—!! No, I’m co—” “……Haaa……” I heard his passionate sigh. At the same time, when I reached the climax, I suddenly felt weak and sank my head in the pillow. Before I could catch my breath, Shun-san gave me a kiss. It wasn’t the fierce kiss I just mentioned, but a gentle, tickling kiss. I responded, Shun-san smiled happily at me who kissed him back. Looking at him, I think he is really happy. I’m glad I was able to be together with him, who loves me so much…… While basking in happiness, I gave myself to the deep love he gave me all night. * * * The activity in the temple begins early. After getting up before 5 o’clock every morning and getting dressed, Shun-san goes out and opens the temple gate. After that, he cleans the temple grounds and the main hall, and the morning work begins. Then, he finally eats breakfast. The breakfast is basically Buddhist cuisine. [T/N: vegetarian cuisine originally derived from the dietary restrictions of Buddhist monks] When he is finished with the meal, he goes to a place if there is a memorial service or other scheduled activity. Of course, sometimes they are held at the temple, but recently it seems that more and more people are going to ceremony halls. If he is asked by a temple supporter, he will attend a dinner party after the memorial service. If there are many appointments in a day, it is a rough night when he comes home. He will then do paper works. On top of that, he is still diligent enough to study hard. Seeing him being like that, I really think that I have to improve my skills so that I can help him more. A few days after the wedding. After seeing off Shun-san, I became absorbed in organizing the remaining cardboard boxes I brought when I moved in. Just then, the intercom of our house rang. “Sister~ I came~” I heard Tasuku’s voice when the front door opened. Yes, yes. When I went to meet him, my younger brother, who was carrying a paper bag, smiled. “Thank you, Tasuku. I’m sorry to bother you.” “It’s fine. I also wanted to see your new house. So you live here, huh…… It’s cozy but it’s good.” While saying that, he looked around the house. Then Tasuku gave me the paper bag he had. “Thank you. I really like it, too. The scent of wood makes me feel calm.” “It’s good, right? The scent of this wood. Even so, this house has only a few things.” Primarily, Shun-san only has a few possessions. Besides, I don't want to put things in the room so much, so the living room is rather dreary. However, since I like home appliances, there may be some electrical appliances in the living room in the future…… No, I’m pretty sure there will be more. With that in mind, I wonder if this amount is fine right now. “What about your daily life as newly-weds? Was it really okay, getting married?” I can see through the mischief at Tasuku’s question. “Fortunately, yes.” I smiled and answered. “What the hell~ I was expecting a more dere dere remark.” “I’m not meeting your expectation! And thank you for this ohagi. It’s been a long time~ Aunt’s ohagi!” [T/N: ohagi - rice ball coated with sweetened red beans, soybean flour or sesame] Tasuku brought me a rice cake made by my aunt. My aunt, who is good at cooking, made it as her congratulatory gift for my wedding. When I opened the nest of boxes in the kitchen, I saw the colorful three-colored rice cakes that are neatly packed. “Wow~ !! It looks delicious !! Red bean, black sesame, soy bean flour!! Here, Tasuku, let’s eat it together.” “Wow, it looks delicious. As expected of Aunt.” Tasuku, who came beside me, looked at the rice cakes and put a few rice cakes on his plate. “By the way, Aunt and Uncle are sorry for the troublesome marriage interview proposal in the past.” “Oh, Ochi-san? I wish they never did it.” I completely forgot him after all the things that happened between Shun-san and me. Then, Tasuku sighed heavily. “Huh? What’s wrong? What happened?” “No, it’s just that when I went to pick this up from Aunt’s house, Uncle was there too. Now, it’s your turn! He said. He told me he wants to introduce a young lady to me from his company.” “Oh……” It seems that my busybody uncle has locked his attention on Tasuku this time because I already got married. Gently tapping Tasuku’s drooping shoulders, I encouraged him. “Ugh…… Damn it, I’ll make sure I’m already married by the time I will be introduced. Anyway . . . where’s Soushun-san?” “Hmmm? At the temple’s office. Do you want to see him?” “No, no, what are you saying, Sister? I know he is busy so I don’t think I should bother him.” Even though he said that, his expression looked happy, I’m sure he really looks forward to meet him. It’s been a long time since they saw each other, so I called Shun-san. As soon as Shun-san appeared, Tasuku had the biggest smile today. Seeing it as the older sister, I felt slightly disappointed. What the hell……! In the end, he came not to see me, but Shun-san. “Welcome, Tasuku-kun. How are Father and Mother?” “They are fine. Rather, they are worried about my sister, if she is doing her work properly.” “…….Hey!” Whether Shun-san was aware of my exasperation, he smiled back amiably. “Kano-san is doing her job well. Recently, I go to my relatives’ houses to say hello, and I’m relieved that everyone was happy for me having a relationship with a good person. Well, she shouldn’t have refused the marriage for a long time.” Saying that, Shun-san laughed. Before getting married, I was informed that there are quite a few people among the relatives of the Hazekura family that are working in temples. I was surprised to hear that a kindergarten nearby was also run by a relative. I had to greet quite a lot of people before and after marriage. “Is that so? Then, that’s good. It seems it is our parents’ biggest concern right now.” “Do not worry. Besides . . . now that I can spend time with Kano-san, it’s my ultimate happiness.” Shun-san said that while smiling as usual, and both Tasuku and I became dumbstruck…… Experiencing Shun-san unconsciously saying sweet nothings, Tasuku returned home reeling. I followed Shun-san who returned to the temple’s office and let everyone taste the rice cake. Shun-sans parents are out, so today there are only three of us, Shun-san, Shouji-san and I. We talked while we ate the rice cakes. It turns out that Shouji-san is one year older than me and one year younger that Shun-san. According to Shun-san, he is a capable person who can handle anything, and was originally a salaryman who worked for a famous company. It seems that he is still in training, partly because he entered a little late to become a monk. I sometimes stay at the temple office to handle the answering machine, but most of the time I always go with Shouji-san. But…… he’s a little nervous when I’m nearby. For some reason, this person hardly speaks. I don’t think that was the case before I got married, though……. yeah. Shun-san is with us today, but if he wasn’t here, I wonder if the two of us would have been eating the rice cakes silently…… When I sighed and dropped my shoulders, Shun-san broke the silence. “Shouji-kun, you seem to be a little nervous when Kano-san is around.” Suddenly, Shun-san said that in a carefree manner, but when I glanced at Shouji-san, I saw him wrinkle his eyebrows. What in the world is that reaction……? “……Vice Chief Priest, please stop it.” Shouji-san grudgingly answered and reached out for his tea. “Eh? Shouji-san, are you really nervous with me?” When I asked him in surprise, he glanced at me and sighed heavily. “As a young wife, it seems that you’re unaware, but . . . I’m nervous when talking to you in front of the vice chief priest. Don’t you understand why? “Huh? But why?” When I asked him honestly because I didn’t really understand, Shouji-san said to me with a stunned look. “That is because if I get along with you too much, the vice chief priest will burn with jealousy. That's why I try not to talk more than necessary.” “Huh? For that reason?” I felt appalled, but wait a minute…… I suddenly remembered something. That’s right, when I was talking with Shouji-san alone before, I remember that Shun-san became jealous. Shouji-san’s attitude changed only after that…… —Don’t tell me?! Shun-san said something to Shouji-san after that!? “Shun-san, what did you say to Shouji-san?” When I asked him, Shun-san picked up his drink with a gentle expression. “Nothing in particular. Oh, I just warned him not to fall in love with you.” He then quietly sipped his tea and smiled. Seeing me eyeing Shun-san with suspicion, Shouji-san sighed. “What he said wasn’t really a big deal, so please don’t worry. However, since the vice chief priest is so unusually obsessed with you, so I will try to be careful as well.” “It’s not obsession. It’s love. Love.” Shun-san casually corrected him,, but Shouji-san frowned even more. “Kuzuhara-san… No, if I get along with the young missus while the vice chief priest is not around, I don’t know what other people would say later. It is good to be cautious.” When I glanced at Shun-san, his shoulders are shaking from laughing. It’s no laughing matter anymore. I felt sorry for Shouji-san for worrying. “Uhm, Shouji-san, let’s not mind Shun-san for the time being. But at least when it’s just the two of us, why don’t we talk more? It feels awkward if we don’t talk with each other for a long time, so I’d like to do that if possible.” Shouji-san checked Shun-san’s expression. Shun-san gave him a smile. “.…..If the young missus says so, then I will.” He nodded as if he had no choice. I then patted my chest in relief. Good, this will then eliminate the agony of being alone together at the temple office…… In front of me, Shouji-san sighed several times with an indescribable expression. That night, I spent a good time with Shun-san in the living room of our new house. Remembering what happened earlier, I handed Shun-san, who was sitting on the sofa, a cup of tea and said. “Oh, what jealousy? Shouji-san is like a realtive so please stop it.” As he listened to my assertion as he leisurely sipped his tea, Shun-san chuckled. Again, this is not a laughing matter. Petulant, I poured tea into my cup. “Even if he is a relative, a man is a man. It wouldn’t be strange if one day, love would suddenly blossom.” The fragrant, freshly roasted green tea scent assailed my senses. I enjoyed it and then took a sip. “I don’t think that’s the case for Shouji-san.” “Who knows? It often happens that the way we see things and think about things changes.” No . . . I don’t think so. In my opinion, it feels like Shouji-san likes Shun-san. Oh, not in a strange way, but like an admiration……? He will never fall in love with the wife of the person he admires, I’m sure. While I was thinking about that with a sullen expression, Shun-san, who saw it, laughed boisterously. “Well… I asked Shouji-kun to play another important role, and I wonder if that is more important.” “What role?” Shun-san just chuckled and said, “Pest controller.” Pest……? Like mosquitoes? Certainly, there were quite a few insects in the gardens but…… Oh, maybe pests that are not real insects…… “Shun-san, don’t tell me……” “Oh, is the cat out of the bag? He is always on a lookout when I’m away so that annoying pests won’t come near you, Kano-san.” ……Heeeeyyyy!!!…… “What on earth are you letting Shouji-san do!? You don’t really trust me, right? Of course I’m already married, but still, I won’t easily swoon over other men, okay?” I said, slightly fuming. Still, Shun-san kept on smiling. “Hehe. Of course I trust you. However, there may be some people who might come close regardless of your feelings, Kano-san. I did it just in case.” With Shun-san being like that, I could only sigh. I’m happy that he is so in love with me…… I’m happy, but!! It’s overkill. To be honest, I want him to stop, but I have no choice but to give up because he won’t listen to what I say. Besides, I . . . I’m getting accustomed to this kind of Shun-san’s behavior. And I’m scared that I’m getting used to it. With a dumbfounded expression, I put down my tea on the table and sat next to Shun-san on the sofa. “No one would like a young missus of a monk, trust me.” Shun-san put his arms around my shoulders. “If so, then I did a good job.” Yes, because…… It’s absolutely scary to turn such a troublesome monk into an enemy. “What are you smiling?” “……No. Nothing……” With such thoughts, I smiled at my troublesome husband. * * * A few days after starting our life as newlyweds. I finally put my luggage in order and got used to my daily life at the Hazekura family. When I was washing in the kitchen, Shun-san, who had finished breakfast, approached me. “Kano-san, can I send you to an errand today?” “Yes, no problem.” “Can you please go to the Ikemoto-ya?” When I hear “Ikemoto-ya”, I immediately think of Ikemoto-san’s face. By the way, I haven’t seen her since that flea market day. The staff at the Ikemoto-ya also celebrated with us on our wedding day, but…… It’s a good opportunity so I’ll go and thank them for their help. While I was absorbed in my own thoughts, Shun-san reached out to pinch my cheeks. “Shun-san?” Looking up at his tall frame, Shun-san closed the gap and gave me a fleeting kiss. “……Hey . . . what’s with you suddenly?” Blushing, I glared at him. Chuckling, Shun-san patted my head. “Oh, right. It seems like Hatsumi-san have changed her impression from before.” “E? Did the two of you met by chance?” Although I said it casually, Shun-san smiled meaningfully. “Jealous?” “H-Huuuuh!? No! Why would I be jealous?” After a moment of being flabbergasted, I frowned. Laughing at my reaction, Shun-san wiped the dishes I had washed and put them in the cupboard. “The other day, the owner of the Ikemoto-ya…… in other words, Hatsumi-san’s father. I talked to him over the phone the other day.” “Oh, I see…… So what am I supposed to do at Ikemoto-ya?” “I ordered something from them and I’d like you to go get it.” “.……I understand. I’ll go.” This is also my duty as a wife. I nodded with a smile. I sent off Shun-san and left the house after completing all the housework. I’ve heard a lot about it ever since I married into the family. It seems that the people at the Ikemoto-ya and the Hazekura family have a long-standing relationship. It is said that the Hazekura family always orders the auspicious steamed buns and red rice for auspicious occasions, as well as gifts from the Ikemoto-ya. In other words, it is the most familiar Japanese confectionery shop for Shun-san and his younger brother. ──Then, I had a big quarrel with the young lady of that shop…… I looked into the distance and sighed. What’s more, I spoke sharply at her…… It hard for me to face her. With that in mind, I entered Ikemoto-ya. “Hello……” “Welcome.” When I showed up, a female staff in her forties responded. Huh, is Ikemoto-san not around? Just as when I started to look around the store─ “Oh. Welcome, young missus.” I heard a familiar voice from the sides and turned my attention to her. “Ikemoto-san . . . Long time, no see.” Ikemoto-san, who came out from the back of the store, smiled at me. “True, long time, no see. I received an order from Soushun-san the other day, so I was wondering if you might come. Since you are already here, please have a cup of tea.” With that being said, Ikemoto-san beckoned me to the back of the shop. I was at a loss for a moment since I was in the middle of an errand, but whatever, I followed her. We passed by the Japanese-style room that I have visited before. She left the room and immediately returned with tea and snack. Ikemoto-san smiled when she saw me sitting formally. “Just like a young missus of a temple.” “Ah, a lot of things have……” I bowed to her. Seeing me act like that, she started laughing again. ──Certainly something is different just as Shun-san said…… “Err. Ikemoto-san, did something happen? You’re quite different from before……” When I asked, Ikemoto-san grinned. “When Soushun-san sarcastically spoke to me, I was completely shaken and totally lost my fighting spirit. Wearing a facade, the person I’d like to show my best knew my true nature. What’s the point?” With a shrug, Ikemoto-san started to make me tea. “So how are you? Is the daily life of a newlywed fun?” After brewing the tea, Ikemoto-san asked and leaned forward the table. “Hmm…… I’m still getting used to my new life, and I’m so busy . . . but it’s fun.” “Ohhh. But Soushun-san is kind, isn’t he? Aren’t the two of you becoming sweeter with each other?” “Sweet……! I don't think that’s the case……” It’s true that he is extremely kind, but I mumbled because I was taken aback. The ones that came to mind were the moments where he is still kind and the moments where he was a little forceful on bed. Anyway, I remembered the sexy Shun-san, and my face became hot with embarrassment. ──Oh no. What am I remembering in this situation…… Perhaps guessing my thoughts from appearance, Ikemoto-san sipped her tea with a helpless expression. “No wonder. Being able to marry the person he always liked, I guess Soushun-san is at the peak of his happiness right now.” “……No, uhm, errrrr……” Being told of the things that I have trouble answering, I’m reaching my limit of embarrassment. “……A daughter of a temple supporter, who was also aiming for Soushun-san, always asks me whenever she comes to this shop, ‘What kind of person is Soushun-san’s wife?’” “Ehhh!?” Hearing Ikemoto-san’s words, I almost spat out the snack I just ate. “I told you before that Soushun-san is a bit of a celebrity in this area, right? Arikawa-san and I aren’t the only ones who wanted to marry him. Everyone was shocked when Soushun-san suddenly got married. Perhaps it’s just that no one told you directly in the face . . . Or so I think.” “……” With Shun-san being like that, I figured he is popular from the number of marriage proposals that he got. No, I thought I knew, but when I was informed of the reality, I was ruffled. Ikemoto-san sipped her tea as she regarded me silently. “If you have any problems, please tell me.” “Huh?” At her unexpected offer, I was caught off guard. Ikemoto-san could only shrug her shoulders helplessly when she saw my reaction. “Isn’t it difficult to tell Shun-san when it involves him? If you tell me . . . Well, maybe I could help.” “I-Ikemoto-san, whatever happened to you?” Ikemoto-san threw me a side glance, stood up and left the room. She then came back, bringing something with her. “Here. This is a picture my father took at your wedding reception.” What she presented was a digital camera. I felt confused, but I took it and looked at the stored images. What I saw was Shun-san smiling happily at the reception. While I was looking at the image, Ikemoto-san silently looked out the window while eating the snacks. After seeing everything, I thanked her and returned the camera to her. Then, Ikemoto-san exhaled. “My father took it for me even though I didn’t ask him. Soushun-san seemed to be happier than ever. When I saw it, I questioned myself . . . If you really like the other person, you should hope for that person’s happiness.” “……Ikemoto-san……” “Besides, I would like to continue to have a good relationship with Soushun-san. I wasn’t able to marry him, but in the end . . . I like him.” Seeing her earnestly say that she “likes” Shun-san, I began to feel happy for her. “You are welcome here from now on. Of course, if you don’t like it . . .” “No! I don’t dislike it! I’m actually glad. Thank you!” I bowed to her, who was smiling wryly. Ikemoto-san was taken aback by my attitude for a moment, but immediately started laughing. “You still bowed to me even though I did those things. You have changed.” “Then it makes us alike……” Ikemoto-san laughed again. Infected by her mirth, I also laughed. Various things happened between us but I know that we are alike. If those things did not happen, we may still get along well. Before I went home, I received a paper bag containing goods from Ikemoto-san. “By the way, may I know what is inside……?” “Youkan [jellied dessert made from red bean paste, agar, and sugar]. I was told that it was to be given to an acquaintance.” Oh, I see. For whom is this, I wonder? After exchanging goodbyes with Ikemoto-san, I went home. The women’s issues related to Shun-san are likely to continue, but I feel very refreshed now. When I arrived at the temple, I headed to the temple office and saw Shun-san working at the desk. “I’m back.” When I announced my presence, Shun-san raised his face, looked at me and smiled. “Welcome back. How was it? She was a little different than before, right?” “Yes. I was surprised . . . But she told me to consult her if I had any problems. It seems that I have made a very reliable friend.” “I agree. From now on, it will be different if Kano-san has something in her mind…… But I’m always by your side. I want you to keep that in mind.” After saying that, Shun-san smiled at me, showing me his perfect set of teeth. Then Shouji-san, who was working nearby, coughed lightly with “ahem”. Shun-san and I then looked at each other and laughed. “Well, I know that you just arrived home, but I’m sorry, why don’t we take a walk outside now?” After laughing, Shun-san stood up and pulled my hand as we go out of the temple office. “Where to?” “Did you hear what the I asked you to get at the Ikemoto-ya was?” “I heard it was youkan……” “Tho one who liked youkan has recently celebrated his birthday. I will take this with me and say hello. That person is already pleased with you marrying me.” ……Hmm? Could it be……? The face of a person came to mind. “Katou-san……?” Shun-san smiled and said, “Correct.” “He has always been concerned about us. He would often ask, ‘How are the two of you?’” “Eeehhh!! I didn’t know……” “Chief Priest Katou-san seems to have noticed that I have liked you for a long time. Well, when I first saw you, I felt like I was in the floating for a while. Katou-san was sharp enough to detect it. Now, I think he was the one who set us up by telling me to go to the Kuzuhara family to chant the sutras.” I think he was too amazing, but if it weren’t for that day, I wouldn’t be there now. With that in mind, I want to thank him for bringing us together. I got into Shun-san’s car that was parked in the parking lot and looked at him who was sitting in the driver’s seat. “I think he is sixty-eight years old this year. The chief priest looks young and his body is very healthy. Until the day he sees the face of our child . . . I heard that he is even more concerned about his health these days.” I suddenly heard the word “child” and immediately reacted to it. “What!? Katou-san said that?” Seeing my reaction, Shun-san smiled charmingly while holding the steering wheel. “Yes. So . . . let’s do our best, okay?” “In-In what?!” “Isn’t it already a given. I don’t mind if it is a boy or girl . . . however, it is complicated because I want it to be just us for a while.” When I saw Shun-san’s sheepish smile, I burst into laughter. Surrounded by cute children and Shun-san who loves me, I could easily imagine my every day struggle as the missus of a temple. Yes. I’m sure it is an unexpected near future.
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