MJ Online Archives
Manic Josei's New Translation Site
2 chapters left for "A Monk's Lovesickness". So, what I decided to do was translate the two novels alternatively, and after finishing the "A Monk's Lovesickness", I'm going to focus on "Hero Suddenly Proposed". *wink* It will be a new month tomorrow. The day of my exams is fast approaching. Sigh! Anyway, I read all your comments! Thank you so much for the understanding and kindness (T_T) You made me feel fired up to translate. XD Chapter 9 - Kano Had Another Meeting Today is my day off. I stayed inside the Japanese-style room at home and, from morning, silently practiced wearing kimono. It’s because when I’m at home, I try to wear kimono as long as I could. The kimono I use for practice is that of my deceased grandmother. Fortunately, my grandmother was tall when she was still alive, so I can wear it without any problems. Thanks to my grandmother’s kimono, I was able to use it every day. With constant practice, my hands would move instinctively now. But aside from wearing it, there’s almost no problem now.
“Oh. You’re able to wear it very well. Let me take a look.” Circling around me, Mother looked and checked. “How was it? I think it’s much better now compared than my first time.” “Yes. You are faster in tucking it up, and the shape of the kimono sash tied around your waist is beautiful. My, you’re improving.” Mother laughed happily and tapped my obi. I also laughed upon hearing her words. I’m happy that my hard work was recognized. “But for you, Kano, to work this hard is kind of…… Hazekura-san told me not to be worried, but in the end, I couldn’t help but be worried that you would have a hard time. But if you are giving your all like this, you will be fine in whatever you do! I am so relieved, you know? Your aunt also praised you for working hard.” “Really? Thank goodness…… But I’m still not as good as Auntie, though……” Still, it feels much comforting than entering his family without any preparation. When Arikawa-san pointed out that I was not ready, I felt dejected, but now, I am very grateful to her for giving me the opportunity. Going back to my room to rest after finishing my dressing practice, my smartphone notified me of an incoming call. The one who called was Hazekura-san, who began his speech with a request. “You need help?” “Yes. Next Sunday, there will be flea market at the temple. It will be a big event. There are no other problems because the town will facilitate it, but the temple planned to provide a little service. My mother and Shouji-kun were supposed to be in charge at first, but my mother suddenly had something to attend to. If you have time, can you lend me a hand?” Now that he mentioned it, I mentioned to Hazekura-san before that the store will be temporarily closed next Sunday because the manager and his wife will attend a relative’s wedding. Perhaps he remembered it. On that day, I also didn’t have any lessons, so I accepted it. “I’m glad. Thank you for the help.” I grinned as I heard his relieved voice. I’m happy that he can rely on me at such times. On the day of the event, Hazekura-san seems to have another job and will come back as soon as he is finished. I’m happy to help him, but at the same time, I’m also a little worried . . . that I would experience the same feeling of alienation before. But I resolved not to run away anymore. “Yep… I’ll do my best!” Motivating my own self, I devoted myself in my bride training. And the day of the event came. I left home a little earlier so I could arrive at the temple before the appointed time. Thinking for something to feel easy to move around, I tied my long hair today and wore a long sleeved shirt and a pair of denim pants. Walking on my sneaker-clad feet, I arrived at the temple. The usual quiet ground was filled with many people. Wow, a lot of people came! I went to the temple’s office in a hurry, and Shouji-san, who was there, explained my role for today. What Shouji-san and I will do is to serve tea, and distribute free miso soup at noon. Also, we will manage a small break area. The tent for the break area had already been set up, so Shouji-san and I will be waiting at the table under the tent. After the simple preparations, I sat down on a folding chair next to Shouji-san who was in his working clothes. Shouji-san had witnessed my “interactions” with Hazekura-san, so being alone with him felt somewhat awkward. At the uncomfortable silence, I dared to speak to him. “Uhm, are these events often held here?” Shouji-san turned to me and answered. “The flea market is held once a year. It has been held for several years in the hopes of our chief priest to be ‘a temple that has a closer relationship with the citizens.’ If not for such events, no one will come to the temple other than its supporters. But I think these events have helped to increase the awareness in the locality.” “So that’s how it is.” I see. I nodded to emphasize my agreement. Shouji-san cast me a glance. “Today, Arikawa-san is also coming to help from around noon. If you don’t want to see her, you can go home first. I will inform the assistant chief priest.” “Huh?” Shouji-san exhaled a little and averted his eyes. “I remembered how different you looked before and after Arikawa-san came a few days ago. Perhaps it was because of what Arikawa-san said…… Am I wrong?” At his brilliant guess, I was at a loss for words and my eyes wandered. As I expected, Shouji-san said with a troubled frown. “If I didn’t go to the warehouse and stayed there, it could have been avoided. I apologize.” “Eh?! Why are you apologizing, Shouji-san? Please don’t mind it. In fact, perhaps thank to Arikawa-san I have come up to some resolutions…… That’s why I’m also grateful.” I cheerfully said and smiled. But for some reason, Shouji-san continued to be grim-faced. “That’s a relief but…… the bad-tempered assistant chief priest was hard to deal with when the two of you separated…… If possible, I hope you can forgive him also.” What? Bad temper? “Huh? For Hazekura-san to lose his temper . . . that’s a lie. He was always calm…… I can’t imagine it at all.” “He will be angry if he found out what I did, so please don’t tell him what I told you. We should start preparing now.” Yes, I’m curious but…… When I checked the time, it is almost time to open the event. Looking around, the costumers are gradually arriving at the place. I’m very interested at the bad-tempered Hazekura-san, but that is not the priority right now. The merchants will set up their own tents on the temple grounds, spread some sheets and place their products on them. At a glance, there seems to be a lot of chinawares such as plates and such, but there are also interesting items such as skillfully made drawers. I thought there would be more elderly costumers, so I was surprised to spot some young people. It looks like they are somewhat having fun, and maybe I should also go and look around during my break…… While I was thinking, a young woman carrying shopping bags came into the break area. When I greeted her, the amiable woman showed me what she bought. She said she came to buy an old kimono. “If it fits, I’ll wear it as it is. But if it does not fit, I can remake it into clothes.” I see. Remake…… That’s also wonderful. Starting with her, various people came to the break area. An old man who came with his grandson and a young man who likes antiques. And some couples, too. Because of them, I had to brew tea and serve it to them a couple of times. Simultaneously, I go to the temple’s office to restock tea leaves and prepare more hot water when I’m not busy. Shouji-san was also in-charge of the supporters coming to the temple’s office, so I am somehow the person-in-charge of the break area. And when I noticed it, it was almost lunch time. “Whoa, how fast! It’s almost time. I have to hurry and get the miso soup ready.” “Yes, please. Oh, Kuzuhara-san, when Arikawa-san arrives, please have lunch first. The lunch boxes are available at the temple’s office.” “Got it.” Whoever prepared the lunch box, I’m grateful. The number of people who dropped by the break area increased at lunch time. Although the miso soup was cooked in a very large stockpot, a long line in front of me assembled in no time. Normally, anyone would be panicking in this situation, but for me this always happens. This isn’t the line for the weekday lunch at Sumiretei where I work. Comparing this to that busyness… I continued to serve miso soup with a composed smile. Shouji-san, who happened to be serving tea next to me, looked at me astonishingly and muttered softly. “……The miso soup is served quickly and the amount is accurate. The balance of ingredients and soup is the same……” “I’m usually used to serving lunch sets……” Convinced, Shouji-san nodded. Eventually, there are less miso soup left in the stockpot, and the costumers have settled down. “Kuzuhara-san, thanks for the hard work. The only thing left to do is to serve tea, and I can do it alone. Arikawa-san will be arriving soon, so please have your lunch now.” “Yes, I understand. Well then, I will leave first.” When I was about to return a bow at Shouji-san and return to the temple office, a lady wearing a kimono came to the tent for a break. “I’m sorry but I’m thirsty. Can I have another cup of tea?” “Sure. Here.” I handed her the green tea in a paper cup. “Phew. I’ve calmed down. Thank you for the food. I look forward to the annual flea market every year, you know? After looking around, I’m tired.” The woman, who had a nice permed white hair, wore a beautiful pale purple kimono designed with pale flower patterns. She looks like a very elegant woman, but she occasionally worries about the position of her obi and would raise it. ──Perhaps she was uncomfortable? I've been practicing dressing recently, so I’m really concerned. She must have noticed my gaze, for the woman smiled embarrassingly. “Fufufu, actually. . . My granddaughter has recently developed a passion for kimono. She said I could be her practice material for dressing up and it was nice for her to do it, but it’s tight…… I’m thinking of calling it a day and let them take me home.” The lady was obviously disappointed, and gave me a sad smile. …...What should I do? I’d like to fix it, but I’m afraid I’d bother her by being meddlesome. Then an idea struck me. I just can’t watch a troubled person right in front of me and stay silent. “Err, if you don’t mind…… Can I help you loosen your obi? That is, if it’s alright with you.” When I shyly offered, the lady’s eyes shone, saying “Eh?” “Miss, you know how to wear a kimono?” “Yes, I just recently enrolled in a class to learn it. But I’m still not good at it though……” “No, no, it’s fine! I would love to accept your help!” The woman smiled happily, her eyes regarding me. Shouji-san, who was watching our interaction the whole time, softly said. “Kuzuhara-san, you can use the room next to the temple’s office. There’s also a mirror over there.” “Thank you. Then, I will leave for a while.” When I bowed to him, Shouji-san grinned. This is the first time I have seen Shouji-san smile. Thanking Shouji-san’s kindness, I guided the lady to the Japanese-style room next to the temple’s office. When I touched the lady’s kimono’s obi as I studied it, it certainly seemed a little tight. Actually, we were also taught in class how to deal with such situations. As I tried to remember those method, the woman spoke to me. “Miss, are you someone living in this temple?” Oh, right. I just realized I haven’t introduced myself yet. I took my hand off from the woman’s kimono and walked around in front of her. “I'm sorry for the late introduction. I’m Kuzuhara Kano. I’m related in a way with the assistant chief priest of this temple, and today I’m here to help temporarily.” When I bowed shyly at her, she smiled. “Thank you for your kindness. Kano is a beautiful name. By the way, I am Katsura. I live in this neighborhood. So just help me with my obi without a formal introduction, okay?” When she said that, I obeyed her and silently immersed myself with the repair. The obi Katsura-san is wearing is a double-woven obi. It is a wonderful obi with luxuriously woven gold and silver threads. I’m not a connoisseur, but I wonder if this obi is extremely expensive…… Unconsciouly, my hands touching the obi tensed. “Oh, being related to the assistant chief priest, are you an acquaintance of Soushun-san?” “Ye-Yes.” Then Katsura-san came closer to me. “.…..I’m wondering if the two of you are dating?” With a sharp glint in her eyes, Katsura-san waited for my reply. I might have had a hard time answering before, but now I’m no longer worried. “Yes. . . I’m going out with him.” I looked into Katsura-san’s eyes and answered clearly. Then Katsura-san exclaimed, “Well!” And widened her eyes. “So that’s how it is!! Finally, Shun-chan! Perhaps, he also promised marriage……?” “I received a p-proposal from him……” As expected, my face burned. As soon as we met, but…… I can’t really say that so I secretly laughed. Katsura-san, who nodded again and again, sighed in relief and looked deeply into the distance. “I’ve known Shun-chan since he was a child. He’s a very intelligent child. He is gentle and kind, so he grew up being loved by everyone. He decided to take over the temple early, and it brought security to this place…… I didn’t think he has the desire to marry depsite his good looks . . . When he was about to reach thirty, I tried to introduce a woman as a candidate for a bride, but he refused. I talked to Shun-chan. I asked him if he didn’t want to get married or what kind of woman he likes.” I put my thumb between the kimono and the obi and moved it left and right as I listened to Katsura-san’s story. “Then Shun-chan replied, ‘I have already set my heart on a woman. I have no intention of getting married to anyone except her.’ He would not tell me who is that woman. Anyone who wanted to introduce a bride candidate to Shun-chan was disappointed like me.” But Katsura-san giggled happily, saying. “So Shun-chan likes you, Miss……” I’ve been earnest, but I don’t want to endure it anymore. What to do, my face is hot…… “U-Uhm . . . That . . . For me, it’s . . .” No matter how I wanted to reply, I don’t know why I kept on stammering unintelligibly. In the meantime, I was able to loosen the datejime a little, and lowered the position of the obi. [T/N: Datejime - small, thin fabric belt worn over the kimono and under the obi in order to protect the fabric] Alright, I wonder if this is okay. “How about this? Is the obi not tight anymore?” When I raised my head and asked, Katsura-san put her hand on the obi to confirm. “Ah, it’s nice. It became comfortable! Not too tight and not too loose. You’re a skilled girl. How long have you been studying kimono dressing?” “Just about two months. The truth is, I am a beginner who has not yet completed the beginner course.” It must have been impertinent of me to tell her that I’m still studying, so I’m a little sorry. While I hunched to make myself appear smaller, Katsura-san exclaimed. “Two months!? It is a great feat if you can do this! My granddaughter has been going to class for half a year, but she tends to be sloppy and can’t remember it at all! Oh…… She should learn from you, Miss.” “That’s ridiculous. I still have a lot to learn.” “Yes. Do your best, okay?” Katsura-san slowly nodded in admiration. Looking at her made me feel nostalgic because I remembered my dead grandmother. Perhaps because of that, I was able to say what I really feel. “.…..He’s such a fine person, and I think I can’t stay by his side unless I do my best. I’m desperate.” Katsura-san gently smiled and tapped my shoulder. “It might be tough to have a lot of rivals since Shun-chan is so popular, but since he chose you, you should be more confident! Okay? Don’t worry about the people around you. Let the outsiders say what they like.” “Yes…..! Thank you very much……!” Katsura-san’s words echoed in my heart and made me smile. Katsura-san then beamed at me. “Anyway, you made it easier for me, girl, so I’ll be visiting the flea market a little more. Kano-chan, right? Thank you so much.” Katsura-san said with a flutter of her hand and left the Japanese-styled room. Watching her retreating back, I repeated in my head over and over again the words Katsura-san said. I’m glad. I’m glad I did my best…… As I was celebrating with delight, the door of the temple’s office snapped open. It was Arikawa-san, who volunteered to help. I hurriedly greeted her. “Oh, good afternoon.” Arikawa-san gave me a kind smile. “Good afternoon. Just now─the one who came here, it was old lady Katsura, right? Did something happen?” As expected of Arikawa-san. She must be acquainted with Katsura-san…… Well, Katsura-san did mention that her house is in the neighborhood of this temple. “I offered to adjust the obi of her kimono.” Arikawa-san’s eyes widened a bit in astonishment. “.…..You did, Kuzuhara-san?” “Yes. Right now, I’m studying how to dress, so I could do it up to that extent……” “I see…… Kuzuhara-san, so you have made a decision and prepared?” Looking for my true intentions, Arikawa-san stared straight at me and asked me. I need to convey my feelings to this person. I faced her again and stared back at her. “Yes. I have decided…… I may not be like you in any aspects, but because I like him, I will do my best.” Arikawa-san, who listened silently, cast down her eyes a little. Immediately, a soft smile appeared on her lips. “I see.” I regarded her silently. Arikawa-san placed her things in the corner of the room, put on an apron, and headed to the door of the temple’s office. She then looked back at me. “What are you studying aside from dressing?” “Ah, err…… Cooking, calligraphy . . .” “So you haven’t done flower arrangement yet?” Ugh. Of course, I have not reached that point yet…… I hung my head and weakly replied, “Yes.” “.…..If you want to learn flower arrangement, you can ask me. I can teach you, but I can also refer you to the teacher who has been teaching me for many years . . . Unless you don’t like it……” “What?” Surprised at Arikawa-san’s suggestion, I jerked my head. “Re-Really? Is it okay? But I . . .” “Again, unless you don’t like it. The other day, I acted like a spiteful woman and told you that it would be a tough job out of jealousy……” “It doesn’t matter! I was actually glad that you told me. Otherwise, I would not be able to come up with a decision…… Thank you for giving me the opportunity.” When I thanked her, Arikawa-san was rendered speechless as if she was surprised. However, she immediately softened her expression and smiled beautifully. “It seems that we will be acquainted with each other for a long time. Please take care of me from now on.” Happy, I bowed at her with so much vigor and beamed at her. We exchanged contacts, then Arikawa-san left the temple’s office while I ate my lunch. After finishing my meal, I replaced Shouji-san and served tea along with Arikawa-san. Together, we chatted a bit. As we talked again, I can see that Arikawa-san is a friendly person who responded properly to casual small talks. When I talked about Western-style restaurants, her eyes shone even brighter…… It seems that she is friendlier than I expected. As Arikawa-san and I dealt with the costumers, time passed quickly. The flea market closed as the sun had begun to set. As we waited for the costumers to go home, we also helped fold tents, pick up trash and silently put things in order. Before I forget, Hazekura-san did not come . . . Did work took him long? As I thought of that while my hands were busy, Shouji-san called me from behind. “Kuzuhara-san, could you please put this vinyl sheet in the warehouse behind the temple?” “Yes, understood.” Holding the vinyl sheet handed to me by Shouji-san, I went to the back of the temple. I immediately spotted a prefabricated building that looked like a warehouse, when I heard voices. “─She was contrary to what you described.” That was Arikawa-san. And the other person was…… “Is that so? Yukari-san, aren’t you being deceived by her?” The way that person talked bristled. It was . . . Ikemoto-san!? Eh? Why is Ikemoto-san here? Moreover, it sounds like they’re talking about me…… I’m very curious, but I don’t have the courage to confront them. I breathed a sigh and hid myself from them. “You claimed that she is only looking at his good looks, but it doesn’t look like that way to me. She is ready to marry him. And not with light feelings──Above all, Soushun-san loves her deeply. Isn’t it possible for us to cheer them up rather than pull them apart?” “Hmmm…… So that’s your answer. It seems that Kuzuhara-san has completely brought you to her side……” “Whatever you say, I don’t think we should bother them. Well then.” Arikawa-san flatly told Ikemoto-san, then walked to the other side where I am hiding. “.…..Goodness. This is why that lady is……” When I heard Ikemoto-san’s irritated voice, I felt gloomy. I walked towards her. Ikemoto-san, who was alerted by my footsteps, noticed me, her eyes widening a little. “Oh. You’re here.” Ikemoto-san calmly answered. “You’re also here, Ikemoto-san. When did you arrive?” “A little while ago. I was just looking around the flea market. I was about to go home when I ran into Arikawa-san, so we talked for a bit…… Well, I heard you’ve been studying? So that time, you were serious.” She doesn’t really think that I started studying. Ikemoto-san snorted. “.…..I wasn’t lying about my feelings for him.” “How splendid. But I wonder how long it will last. I hope all of your efforts are half-baked?” Ikemoto-san’s words were laced with scorn. But I knew that behind those words, there was a long-standing yearning for Hazekura-san. I once tried to give up on him, so I fully understand her pain…… “In order for me to be able to stay by his side, I will keep on trying. Whatever you do, I will never lose and I will not stop loving him. Of course, I don’t mean to disregard your feelings. But someday, I want you to recognize me as his bride.” When I told her my feelings, her face contorted as she exclaimed, “What!?” “You’re saying that my feelings and your feelings are the same!? I’ve been in love with him for so long, so he should not be with you! I can’t lose to . . . you . . .” While spilling everything out to me, Ikemoto-san’s face ashened like that of a corpse. “Yes? Ikemoto-san, what’s the matter……?” Strange. When I followed her line of sight, I was surprised to find the person standing there. “Hazekura-saaan!?” Hazekura-san, still clad in his monk’s robes, appeared from behind a tree and approached us with a smile. In contrast to me who was a bit happy to meet him, Ikemoto-san’s expression stiffened as she looked at him. “.…..So-Soushun-san, why are you here?! Wait, don’t tell me, you heard everything……” As Ikemoto-san trembled, Hazekura-san flashed her a grin. “Yes. I know it’s wrong to eavesdrop, but I still chose to hear it.” When I shifted my eyes from Hazekura-san to Ikemoto-san, her face turned scarlet and her lips kept on opening and closing. Well, I can’t blame her. It felt as if she confessed in a loud voice. In addition, her true nature was completely revealed…… Then Hazekura-san, who was watching Ikemoto-san, said. “I was aware of your feelings, but this is the first time I have heard of it.” At that moment, Ikemoto-san’s shoulder shook with a start. Then she bit her lip, as if she was resisting to talk. “Thank you for thinking about me all this time. I am very happy that you felt something for me…… But in my heart, I already have someone I love. I’m sorry I could not return your feelings.” After saying that, Hazekura-san silently bowed to Ikemoto-san. “.…..No, it is I who should apologize. Thank you for replying.” Where was her energy just a while ago? Ikemoto-san, who suddenly became mature, looked contrite as she bowed towards Hazekura-san. Hazekura-san shook his head when he saw her state. “You have nothing to apologize for. Besides, I have been a patron of Ikemoto-ya for so long. As someone who grew up eating sweets from your shop, I don’t want to cut off ties just because of this. It’s sad that I can’t eat those delicious kuzu mochi and zenzai.” “Of-Of course not……! Thank you for your continued support……!” Hazekura-san’s words brightened the expression of Ikemoto-san. Quietly watching the interaction between them, I stroked my chest in relief─but then the eyes of Hazekura-san, who had been calm until then, sharpened a little. “However . . . as I always thought, you should show more of yourself, Hatsumi-san. Your beauty will stand out even more than those advertizing girls of your Japanese confectionery shop if you use your wisdom and intelligence as a weapon. I’m sure men won’t leave you alone.” Then Hazekura-san gave Ikemoto-san a meaningful side glance. I’m convinced he had known Ikemoto-san’s true nature for a long time, as proven by that sidelong glance. With that charming expression, it was like he delivered a final blow or something…… Could it be that Hazekura-san was actually angry……? “So-Soushun-san, you noticed……?” Ikemoto-san surmised with a squeaky voice. “Let’s see . . . I was aware of it from the beginning. But I thought it’s good, since it’s more attractive than your usual self. But unfortunately, for me, there was someone who charmed me more.” Saying that, Hazekura-san glanced at me. He’s exaggerating but it never failed to make my heart flutter. “.…..Even now, you still had the nerve to say something cheesy……” The dejected Ikemoto-san heard my murmur. Suddenly, she burst out laughing. “I-Ikemoto-san……?” I called her name in surprise. Then she exhaled with a “Haa─!” and scratched her head. “I thought I could hide it from you, Soushun-san…… but you found out. But since I am a supporter of your temple, we’ll continue to interact with each other for a long time. I will decide to accept it or not after witnessing your struggles.” With these words as a parting gift, Ikemoto-san fluttered her hands and quickly left the place. I wonder if the outcome was good…….? Watching her leaving, Hazekura-san caught my attention by calling my name. “Ah…… Ha-Hazekura-san! Really, how long have you been hiding behind us?! I didn’t notice at all.” Hazekura-san then gave me an amused smile. “It was not my intention to hide…… As soon as my work was finished, I wanted to see you so I roamed around to find you. Therefore, hearing your conversation was purely a coincidence.” “Oh…… I see. Then, you really knew about Ikemoto-san’s ture nature?” “It was so obvious to me. I remained silent because it was not particularly harmful, but in the end, I just can’t stay silent when she is trying to remove you.” My jaw dropped as I stare at Hazekura-san. Then, Hazekura-san grabbed the vinyl sheet I am holding. “Were you shocked?” “I . . . was. But including all those things, I like Hazekura-san. I can’t help it anymore.” “Hahaha.” Hazekura-san laughed heartily. And then, Hazekura-san, who came out of the warehouse after returning the vinyl sheets, thanked me again. “Thanks for your hard work today. Shouji-san told me that despite the unfamiliar environment, you saved us a lot.” “Huh, is that true……? I’m glad…… I was able to help.” So Shouji-san said those things about me. That’s good. “I was looking for you because I had another reason to see you. Kano-san, would you mind if you’ll come to my room?” “N-no.” When he mentioned going to his room, I was a little nervous. In order for him not to realize what I feel, I silently followed him. When I entered Hazekura-san’s room, I sat down on the floor after being invited to sit. Then he sat in front of me after retrieving a bundle from the corner of the room. Then he gently unwrapped the bundle. ─I wonder what it is. When the cloth wrapper was completely removed, Hazekura-san then untied the knot. What appeared from the inside was white Japanese paper──a kimono wrapping paper. “Is it a kimono?” “Yes. I kept it secret from you until it was completed. Well, it’s more like I could not bring to tell you……” While Hazekura-san unwrapped the string of the wrapping paper as he talked, what appeared from inside was─ “What…… Could it be a black tomesode……?” [T/N: tomesode - formal, usually black, kimono with designs along the bottom of the skirt worn by married women on ceremonial occasions] I gasped at the beautiful silk, which I thought to be a pure silk, with the family crest that seems to belong to the Hazekura family sewn on it. “We have a supporter who runs a kimono shop. I asked for it when I met him at a memorial service a few days ago. I know it is very selfish of me but…… I want to give it to you. Will you take it?” “Ha-Hazekura-san…… I can’t possibly accept such an expensive item.” I cannot keep up with the situation. But disregarding my confusion, Hazekura-san said no with a shake of his head. “If you will not accept this, no one can wear this tomesode and it will end up unused inside the cabinet. This was tailored according to your size.” What? Size!? Why does Hazekura-san know my size? Confused, I asked him. “When did you measure my measurements?” “I remember every detail about your body.” Hazekura-san smiled meaningfully. He doesn’t need to mention what he means. I righted my posture and sat properly. Then I placed my hands on my knees and asked in a loud voice. “What if . . . I said I will never marry you. What will you do?” Devoid of expression, Hazekura-san turned away from me and stared at the garden through the window. “Well, I wonder…… Maybe I will keep this at hand and remember you every time I look at this.” Oh, whatever happens, Hazekura-san is Hazekura-san…… I’m oddly convinced. I bubbled with laughter. “Pfft! Ha-Hazekura-san, that’s too creepy…… If you will turn out like that, you would become a complete stalker…… Ahahaha!” I couldn’t hold it, so I laughed with my hands on my mouth. As expected, Hazekura-san bitterly smiled. “You’re not wrong. I also thought of it when I said it.” And he, too, laughed out loud. We laughed together for a while. When I finally stopped laughing and wiped the tears around my eyes with my fingers, Hazekura-san called me. “Kano-san.” His eyes, looking straight at me, suddenly surprised me. “Ye-Yes……?” “Let me say it again.” Hazekura-san shoved the kimono aside, and while still sitting, closed the distance between us. “I’ve said it before, that I’m a difficult person to handle . . . but……” Then, he took my hands and gently wrapped it in his palms. “I want to get married, and make you my wife, Kano-san.” “I want to make you my wife─” Suddenly, the memories of that day in summer came back. I was just surprised and confused at that time. But now I am . . . different from me that day. ─This is a person is difficult and obstinate, and anyone other than me can deal with him. My thoughts were consumed by him these past few months. I looked at him and gave him my best smile. “Yes. Please take care of me.” After saying that, I kowtowed and Hazekura-san, who smiled happily, hugged me gently. “I love you, Kano-san. “.…..I love you, too……” His nostalgic scent was similar to the scent I smelled that summer.
6 Comments
Clairefaye30
6/29/2020 05:31:24 pm
Ahhh, I miss them so much! I can't wait to read the end.
Reply
fan63
6/29/2020 09:43:43 pm
So the ladies have conspired to wreck Kano's relationship with Hazekura. It won't work. He has made up his mind that she is his woman , his wife. to be.
Reply
idksis
6/30/2020 03:50:04 am
Hey, I just found your translation but i cant read or find the earlier chapters. Do you have an idea ?
Reply
Manic Josei
7/4/2020 05:45:14 pm
Hi! My previous site was deleted. But I will re-upload it here again. Just gradually though...
Reply
Fels
7/21/2020 07:37:21 am
I hope u reupload previous chapter bcs i curious and i want to start to read.
Reply
Lightning
9/22/2020 01:26:02 am
Can't read chapt 6 to 8.huhu
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorHello, everyone!
|