Yui Yagi

I'm telling you, it's true... Why won't you believe me?!

Just last night, I saw green flames in the classroom!

Undoubtedly, a will-o'-the-wisp – a gathering of restless souls... No, that's not quite right. "Spectral fire"... yes, that's a better term for it.

Just calm down a little bit. Where exactly did you see it? Don't tell me it was in the lab building...

Green flames... That's probably copper burning.

Flame test.

A familiar voice comes from behind. I turn around, and, as expected, it's Yui Yagi.

Come to think of it, she seldom talks outside of mahjong and seems somewhat nervous now.

Ah – ahh! So it's just a flame test thing!

That's the one! It's discovered by that famous professor... What's his name again?

Isn't the flame test from junior high textbooks?

Oh... Is... is that so?

Electrons in metals absorb energy when heated, and jump to unstable higher energy levels.

After that, they spontaneously fall back to lower energy levels, releasing photons of different energies...

Right – those photons correspond to wavelengths of light, which is why the flame changes color!

That's our Yui! Spot-on, just like usual.

Wait... was this also covered in junior high?

...Nah, no way they taught the actual theory in junior high.

As we keep joking around, Yui and Mirai suddenly click – their scientific discussion grows more intense and technical by the second.

Professional terms we'd never even heard before come flying out one after another, leaving absolutely no room for the rest of us to get a word in.

At this rate, Natsuki and I are about to fade into the background like NPCs... What should we do?

Hey, since there are four of us now... wanna go play some mahjong?

Mahjong? I'd love to... but not today.

I've got an invention symposium I have to attend – oh shoot, it's almost time! Gotta go now!

Ah, I should probably head out too – got my shift at the bar starting soon. Sorry, guys!

Oh... what a shame. Guess we'll have to wait for next time, then...

Uh... so...

And just like that, only Yui and I stay.

...

...

Under the weight of that awkward silence, Yui doesn't say a word. She just looks at me.

Her expression remains as unreadable as ever – those eyes give away nothing.

Does she not want to leave yet? Guess it's up to me to break the ice...

...Not really sure about that.

Huh? What does that mean?

Since my parents are scientists, I've been reading science books since I was little.

However... I don't actually want to become a scientist myself. I'm probably different from those who genuinely love science.

But... you know so much about everything...

That's why I thought you were into science.

...Is that so?

...If you say it like that, then I guess maybe I do.

If you don't want to be a scientist... then what do you want to be?

Well...?

...Right. What do I want to do?

...

...What kind of person do I truly want to become...?

Eh? Is that too deep...? Sorry! You don't really need to take it that seriously!

I just wanted to make some small talk...

But Yui turned serious... She seems genuinely troubled by my words.

Not good – better change the subject fast...

Well, that's something you can figure out later, one step at a time.

Science aside, there are plenty of other things we can talk about.

...Mhm. Thank you, senpai.

Yui remains silent, her gaze still locked onto me.

Wait... could my offhand remark actually be right? Gotta wipe my face just to check.

...You guessed right, senpai.

Eh? Is there really something on my face?

Yes, it's the look on your face... quite amusing to observe.

If you don't like me doing that, I'll stop. Sorry.

After all, by every possible measure, I'm just... thoroughly average in One Han City.

...Your reactions are kind of fascinating.

Senpai, you really should be more aware of your own interesting side.

Wait... are you teasing me?

I'm telling the truth.

Is... that so...

Usually, someone with Yui's personality should be the more interesting one...

We should be heading the same way home, right?

I've seen you at the convenience store near my place before. So I figured we must live close by.

Really? I didn't even notice...

But even if we're not, I'd be happy to walk you home today.

Mmhm.

Ah, I just remembered, my fridge is empty...

Do you usually cook at home, Yui?

Yeah. Still practicing, though.

Then let's hit the supermarket on the way. I need to grab a few things too.

Afterward, we head to the supermarket nearby.

It's a well-stocked supermarket, so we should be able to find everything we need.

Mm... I'm out of milk too. Might as well grab some while we're here.

What are you planning to make tonight, Yui?

Wait, don't tell me. Let me take a guess.

The ingredients in her shopping basket should give away what she's planning to make.

Let me see... Lettuce, kale, romaine, red leaf lettuce...?

Green cabbage, red cabbage, savoy cabbage...

Mm... Yui...

Seriously, what are you gonna do with all these leafy greens?

Didn't you just say you're gonna take a guess?

Wrong answer.

Is it that hard to guess?

Well... pretty hard.

So... what's the answer?

Beef and potato stew.

Huh?

Then... what about the potatoes?

Technically, you don't have to put potatoes in beef and potato stew.

Only by daring to try new ingredients can we forge new paths in cuisine... Probably.

But... if you don't add potatoes, it's not even beef and potato stew anymore...

Why do I feel like that she's innovating in the wrong direction...

Wait... does this mean you can't actually cook...?

...See? You really are interesting.

Though I've never had a pet.

Is that so... I saw your basket was full of veggies, so I thought...

The correct answer is beef and potato stew.

Huh?

Also, feeding rabbits too many veggies can be dangerous.

Veggies are mainly for hydration, so you should only give them a tiny amount. 3 grams per kilogram of their weight is the absolute maximum.

Hold up! Don't think I didn't hear that terrifying "correct" answer just now!

Actually, for rabbits, hay is far more nutritious than fresh vegetables.

Senpai, don't you find it amazing?

Uh... you're derailing the conversation hard.

How are you gonna make beef and potato stew with these?

You have to dare to break the old rules sometimes.

Look, potatoes in beef and potato stew isn't a "rule" – it's literally in the name!

Waaah...

A child's crying echoes from nearby.

Looking around, a little girl – about four or five years old – stands in front of the bakery display, looking utterly lost.

...Could she have gotten separated from her family?

Since it's a weekday afternoon, there are barely any customers in the supermarket, and no staff nearby either.

(Well... Should we go help?)

...Let's go check on her.

Yui strides ahead of me, swiftly walking over to the little girl.

She crouches down to meet the little girl eye to eye, her voice softening as she gently asks what's wrong.

What happened to you?

Did you get separated from your mommy and daddy?

...Sniffle.

Mommy... Where's Mommy...?

It's okay.

We'll help you find her.

There's no customer service desk on this floor...

Senpai, you'll help too, right?

Sure, we'll help you find your mommy together.

Thank you...

So, do you remember where you last saw her?

I was looking at the bubble guns earlier...

I kept looking... and then Mommy was gone.

Bubble guns... should be in the toy aisle. Is it on the second floor?

So... what's the best way to handle this?

We take the little girl to the second floor.

This should be where she got separated from her mom.

We've searched around the toy shelves but haven't seen anyone who looks like her mother...

If her mom's also looking for her, she might have already gone somewhere else, right?

Mommy...

Where did Mommy go...?

Tears well up in the little girl's eyes again... This is bad. We're completely clueless about what to do.

Perhaps it would be better to ask a staff member to help?

At the very least, we should be able to use the store's PA system – it's better than nothing...

Don't worry, we'll find her for sure.

Unlike my panicked self, Yui remains as calmly composed as ever. And for some reason, there's an unusual gentleness about her now.

She crouches beside the little girl again, gently stroking her hair.

Do you know why soapy water can blow perfectly round bubbles?

And why plain water can't do the same?

Sniff... sniffle...

Sniffle... I don't know...

...How did we get onto blowing bubbles?

Imagine that we have a cup filled with water.

The water in the cup is actually made up of countless tiny particles.

We call them "molecules."

What... what does that mean...

...Sorry. Let me put it in simpler terms.

Alright...

...Little fairies.

There are many, many little fairies living in the water in the cup.

Of course, it's just a metaphor. Little fairies aren't real – it's just to simplify the explanation.

...I see.

Little fairies? ...Are they even smaller than me?

Yes, they're so tiny that we can't even see them.

But you know – those little fairies work really hard.

They hold each other's hands so hard, trying to keep the water from scattering into a puddle.

And so, they form a sphere, because that's the most stable shape.

Now we need to talk about the concept of surface tension, because surfactants weaken the cohesion between water molecules...

Yui, you're going too far again!

This is so tough...

The little girl probably doesn't understand a single word of Yui's explanation.

Yet somehow, her tears have stopped, replaced now by a soft smile.

Perhaps it's the focus in Yui's explanation that is drawing her in.

Also... maybe it's just my imagination, but now her eyes are glowing with pure curiosity.

I get it now!

The soap bubbles are round because the fairies are holding hands!

That's right...!

Yui clears her throat, then gently pats the girl's head.

So, until we find your mom... let's hold our hands, okay?

As long as we work together like the little fairies in the water, we'll definitely find her!

Although Yui seems a little embarrassed saying this, I think it's remarkable that she managed to say it out loud.

I thought she wasn't great with people... but maybe I just didn't know her well enough.

Yui takes the little girl's hand and walks ahead of me. Watching their backs, I feel a sudden warmth in my chest.

...Ellie? Is that you?

An anxious voice calls out from behind us.

We turn around and see a long-haired woman standing at the escalator landing.

The little girl dashes toward her with pure joy – finally, a mother-daughter reunion.

Thank you so much, both of you! Ellie, come say thank you too!

Thank you for helping me find Mommy!

Don't get lost again, okay? Be careful next time.

Okay! I will!

Yui waves goodbye to the mother and daughter, and the corners of her eyes seem to crinkle, just a little...

Is she... smiling?

Now that I think about it... even though her facial muscles barely move, if you look closely, her emotions show through.

...This is quite the discovery.

...I'm so glad we found her.

Yeah, and it's all thanks to you.

It's because you treated that little girl with kindness that she was willing to come with us.

I only did that... for myself.

Looking at that little girl, it was like seeing my past self.

Your past self?

...Oh.

Hm? What is it?

I forgot there's a delivery coming today.

Eh? When would that be?

Between 4 and 6 PM. It should be arriving any minute now.

I check my phone. It's 20 minutes left until 5 PM.

Uh... what do we do? Can you still make it?

Sorry, senpai. I have to head back home now.

Sure, be safe on your way!

You too.

Yui has just sprinted a few meters when she suddenly stops and turns back.

At this moment, her expression is still a bit hard for me to read.

It's been a fun day.

See you at the mahjong table, senpai.

The way she's standing... It's like she's reluctant to leave.

Hope it's not just me overthinking.

Rather than searching aimlessly, why don't we wait at a spot where her mother is sure to pass by?

Brilliant strategy...!

Although it's a bit exaggerated, being praised by Yui feels pretty good.

Once the little girl calms down, we guide her toward the supermarket exit.

As I expected, the little girl's mother appears before us shortly after.

Mommy! Where have you been?!

Ellie suddenly disappeared, so Mommy was looking for you...

Ah, are we having curry tonight?

Eh? I guess we are?

That's just how kids are, switching topics so fast that even her mom can't keep up... Before leaving, the little girl's mother gave us her sincere thanks.

After waving goodbye to the little girl, Yui murmurs something beside me.

I'm thinking about curry too.

Now that you mention it...

But the ingredients you bought won't work for curry, right? Should we head back to the fresh produce section?

Hm? Didn't we already buy all the ingredients?

It's common knowledge that beef stew with potatoes and curry basically use the same ingredients.

...I don't even know where to begin...

Regardless, Yui seems determined to make curry tonight, so we head to the spice aisle.

Uh, Yui, you're not thinking of making the spices yourself, are you?

Maybe we should try store-bought curry powder or roux first...?

Wait, you really don't need chili bean sauce in curry! Just put that down first!

...So I only add it after mastering curry techniques?

Not really... How should I put it, at least the concept of curry doesn't include...

Oh right. Senpai, next time we play mahjong, I'll bring you my homemade curry.

Ah, hmm... I'll look forward to it.

Yui's face remains expressionless – but as she meticulously selects spices, I can almost sense a hint of joy.

...But when I think about what comes next...

I can't really say I'm feeling joyful as well...

Did you say something?

N-no, nothing!

The sea looks absolutely stunning...

Ah-ha! First one here!

Looks like we've got this entire beach all to ourselves.

I mean, it's not really beach season yet, is it?

But the sun feels so perfect today!

Definitely! Plenty of sunlight without the scorching heat.

Hey, you slowpokes! Don't leave me hanging out here by myself! Catch up already!

Since a few friends had some free time lately, I thought it'd be fun to get everyone to the beach.

The water's too chilly for swimming right now, but that hasn't stopped everyone from having fun.

Especially Hinata and Mirai, who are running around like excited kids.

...

Watching the others play from afar, Yui narrows her eyes slightly, as if the sun is too bright for her.

Though we've been talking a lot recently, this is my first time inviting her out. I still can't quite figure out what's going on in her mind...

Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves.

Yui says this, half to me and half to herself.

Yes, they are. Are you enjoying yourself too?

I don't know.

Yui neither confirms nor denies... better to steer the conversation elsewhere.

Speaking of beaches, when was the last time you visited one?

10 years and 3 months ago.

That's quite a long time...

Wait, you remember it down to the month?

Yes, it was the first time I went to the beach with my family.

I didn't know how to swim then, which was disappointing, so I took swimming lessons afterward.

Oh? So you can swim now?

Are you doubting me?

No, not at all! I'd never do that.

That said, I'm having a hard time imagining Yui in the water.

I'd love to prove it to you, but the ocean's still off-limits for swimming.

What a pity.

Hearing this, Yui suddenly turns her gaze toward me.

Wh-what's wrong?

Senpai...

If I find any pretty shells, I'll give them to you.

Hey! How about a game of beach volleyball?!

Hehehe... I knew someone would suggest this. Look! I came prepared with a ball!

Ah, this must be the work of some divine power... the god of spheres has blessed me with its power!

I mean, people typically bring volleyballs to the beach anyway...

It does sound fun, though. Are you and {var:player_nickname} joining us, Yui?

Of course, I'd never turn down a game.

Next to me, Yui nods slightly, her face as unreadable as always.

After drawing lots to form teams, I'm grouped with Yui and Hideki.

I assumed Yui wouldn't be athletic, but she's surprisingly skilled at volleyball.

But none of us has had any professional training, so the match basically looks like a bunch of amateurs just fumbling around...

Here it comes!

Hmph!

Take this!

Haha, it's nice to get some exercise once in a while.

Mmm, this is fun.

Nice one! We just scored!

The game has been neck and neck, and now we're at 20-19, our match point.

Nooo... we can't afford to lose this one!

I'm going all out! Take this! Midnight Inferno!

Big talk, slow walk. I jumped the gun trying to block that slowpoke...

{var:player_nickname}! Catch it!

The volleyball soars toward my head.

I track the ball while checking my teammates' positions from the corner of my eye. Yui is standing back, and she seems to be looking at me.

Somehow I can feel the confidence in her eyes. But...

A quick look at the other side shows all three opponents standing deep in their court, with the net area completely unguarded.

If I could just tap the ball over to their front court, we'd win. What's the best move here?

Yui, this one's yours!

...!

Yui's eyes flash with determination as she jumps high into the air...

Whoosh – Yui's powerful spike hits nothing but thin air.

...

...

That's quite the powerful whiff, Yui.

How did I miss?

After that, the other team seized the momentum and eventually defeated us.

After the match, Yui just stood there, staring silently at the volleyball rolling across the sand.

It's obvious she's feeling pretty down...

Yui?

My hand position during the spike should have been correct...

Maybe I jumped too soon?

But if I could increase the momentum, perhaps I can maintain kinetic energy while controlling my midair posture better...

Yui finds a stick from somewhere and begins writing complex calculations in the sand.

Yui doesn't seem to hear me, still absorbed in her diagrams and calculations...

Can I get you something to drink?

Senpai...

...

I'd like an iced coffee.

Sure thing.

My angle is perfect! I start by aiming high toward their back court, then suddenly flip my wrist to hit a clean, straight shot to their undefended front court.

Natsuki lunges desperately toward the ball, but he's just a split second too slow.

When the volleyball hits the sand, the match ends with our victory.

Argh, I just couldn't get there in time!

That was so cool... I had no idea you were faking...

Seeing the disappointed looks on my opponents' faces gives me a little rush of pride.

As I turn to celebrate with my teammates, I suddenly notice something's not right.

Senpai...

... (staring)

Oh, I see...

Sorry, were you waiting for me to set the ball for you?

...

Now that I think about it, Yui's position was ideal for a spike.

{var:player_nickname}, seriously. As the team leader, you should be more considerate of Yui's feelings.

Hold on a second?! Since when am I the team leader?!

Senpai.

Yui gives my shoulder a little poke with her finger.

Buy me coffee and I'll forgive you.

Eh? Coffee?

Despite what she's saying, Yui doesn't appear angry at all. If anything, she seems almost... happy?

Is she just playing a joke on me...?

Alright. What kind of coffee would you like?

Just a regular iced coffee, thanks.

This is a good opportunity to get some drinks to refresh ourselves after playing. Luckily, there's a vending machine in the nearby parking lot where I easily buy a can of iced coffee.

I might as well buy drinks for everyone else too.

With this in mind, I load all the drinks into a bag. But when I get back to the beach, I'm met with an unexpected situation.

Yui is gone.

Has anyone seen Yui?

Eh? Yui?

You're right. Where did Yui go?

Weird... I can see from one end of this beach to the other, so she shouldn't be hard to find.

At that moment, I suddenly remember what Yui and I talked about earlier.

Did she go into the ocean alone to prove she can swim because I doubted her earlier?!

I'll search along the shoreline!

Good idea! We'll all spread out and search!

If I'm right about this... this could be serious.

We decide to split up and comb the beach, but none of us can find Yui.

There's no way she was pulled out to sea by the waves, right...?

Yui... please be okay!

Growing increasingly worried, I follow the shoreline until I reach a rocky area.

The beach gives way to an unbroken stretch of large, jagged rocks that march right out into the ocean.

Climbing onto one of the rocks, I spot a reassuring figure below. It's Yui, crouching on the sand, hidden from everyone's view by the tall rocks.

Phew. Finally, there you are.

Senpai? What's wrong?

Yui doesn't seem to realize what's happened, her eyes clear and curious despite her typical lack of expression.

Thank goodness you're alright... everyone's been worried sick. I need to let them know you're safe.

Wait.

Don't tell them where we are just yet.

Hm?

While I don't know why Yui wants this, I respect her wish and simply message the group: "Found Yui, everything's fine."

I put my phone away, and Yui climbs up onto the rocks to join me.

As she gets closer, I see she's holding several small shimmering white fragments in her palm.

You came all the way out here... for shells.

She must have been so focused on finding seashells that she wandered to this hidden spot without realizing.

Yes, but they're not particularly rare...

Still, I'd like you to have them.

Thank you, Yui. I appreciate it.

There's no need for thanks between us.

Eh...?

Senpai...

Hmm?

Could you stay and talk with me for a bit?

Of course.

She nods, looking satisfied.

The waves crash against the rocks with a soothing sound that's both relaxing and pleasant to the ear.

We sit side by side on the rocks, enjoying the peaceful sea and looking out toward the horizon.

Back in ancient times, I doubt anyone believed the earth beneath them was a sphere.

But there was an ancient civilization that believed the earth was a hemisphere supported on an elephant's back.

And beneath that elephant lurked a turtle even larger than the elephant.

That's quite fascinating, don't you think?

Yes, fascinating indeed.

I wonder what it was like for people to first discover they were living on a gigantic sphere.

With how far technology has come, will we ever be truly surprised by a discovery again?

As the sun sinks, its brilliant light traces the outline of Yui's face.

There's something in her expression that I can't quite grasp yet.

You know so much. Is that from your scientist parents' influence?

Yes. They taught me a lot of things when they were still alive.

Wait...?

Yui combs her fingers through her long hair and nods.

They were in a plane crash before I started middle school.

Don't give me that look...

It's all in the past now. I've learned to let it go.

It's more like I've gotten so used to being alone that sometimes I feel afraid of how things are now.

I love spending time with all of you, but I don't know how to show you my feelings.

After all, I barely even know how to smile.

Senpai...

What should I do?

It's never too late to start practicing. I'm sure you'll be smiling naturally in no time.

A natural smile...

What kind of practice should we do?

Well... let me think about it.

To be frank, I don't really know exactly what we should do either.

Perhaps we could start by exercising your facial muscles?

Which muscle exactly?

Do you mean the levator labii superioris, orbicularis oris, or masseter muscles?

Or maybe the orbicularis oculi, zygomaticus minor, or depressor anguli oris?

Or rather, the mentalis?

S-sorry, I don't understand any of those terms...

But the human face has about 30 different muscles.

To create a perfect smile, I need to precisely control every single muscle's movement.

At this point, Yui's eyes suddenly grow wide.

Are you saying everyone practices this advanced mental exercise every day?

That's exhausting... no wonder people often say socializing is complicated...

Hold on, hold on, it's not complicated at all!

Let me put it this way...

Look, like this – just use your index fingers to push up the corners of your mouth.

That's a basic smile right there. Wanna try?

Yui puts her index fingers against the corners of her mouth and pushes them up hard. The result looks extremely unnatural and rather funny...

She made a completely mechanical smile.

So Yui really doesn't know how to smile...

Why are you laughing?

Ah, sorry about that.

Watching you give it your all is just too adorable – I couldn't help myself.

Adorable? Me?

...

Without a word, Yui stares intently at my face.

I hope I didn't upset her...

Ah – so this is where Yui has been hiding!

I turn toward the sound of the voice and see Hinata standing at the foot of the rocks, waving up at us.

Following behind her are the rest of our friends. Natsuki is carrying the drinks I bought earlier, and just like that, our group is reunited.

Got busted. Too bad.

Hmm? What was that?

Nothing.

We play among the rocks, all six of us, bathed in the soft afterglow.

Tiny fish swim happily back and forth in the numerous tide pools between the rocks.

These little fish probably have no idea Earth is a sphere either.

As we're all observing the tiny world in the tide pools, Yui suddenly stands up and points to something nearby.

Following her gesture, I spot a strange creature trying to scale a rock, its back covered with writhing tentacles.

That's a hermit crab.

Is THAT what hermit crabs look like?!

In addition to living in shells, hermit crabs sometimes carry sea anemones on their backs for protection.

Though this is my first time seeing one alive.

I see... hold on, did you just...

Did you just smile?

I can't be completely sure, but I don't think I was imagining it. For just a moment, Yui's lips curved up at the corners.

Eh?

I could be wrong. But from what I saw, you were definitely smiling just now.

Is that so?

...That's great.

Yui says softly, before turning her attention back to the tiny world at her feet.

Her smile still needs practice, but perhaps success isn't too far off.

Until then, I'll enjoy this journey with her.

Really?

Of course.

When you're happy, your eyes crinkle slightly, as if you're looking at something bright.

Your lips might not move, but that's still your own special way of smiling.

That's how I've come to recognize it, at least.

You really are fascinating.

Wait, I think I've heard Yui say something similar before...

What's so fascinating about me?

You always notice things that nobody else does.

And you're very considerate.

Kind to everyone.

I always feel happy when I'm with you.

All these compliments are making me feel a little self-conscious.

Uh, well... um... the ocean looks gorgeous, doesn't it?

Yes, it's stunning.

Wow, the entire sky is painted red now.

Let's watch the sunset together.

We can just stay here until the sun sinks into the sea.

Okay.

It's beautiful.

We turn our gaze toward the distant sunset. If only this moment could stretch on just a little longer...

Ah – so this is where Yui has been hiding!

I turn toward the sound of the voice and see Hinata standing at the foot of the rocks, waving up at us.

Following behind her are the rest of our friends, and just like that, our group is finally reunited.

Got busted. Too bad.

Hmm? What was that?

Nothing.

We play among the rocks, all six of us, bathed in the soft afterglow.

Tiny fish swim happily back and forth in the numerous tide pools between the rocks.

These little fish probably have no idea Earth is a sphere either.

Senpai, I need to tell you something.

While the others are absorbed in the tiny world below, Yui speaks in a volume only I can hear.

What is it?

I always thought reading books and brewing coffee brought me joy.

But actually, I've always wanted to share these joys with someone else.

So being able to call everyone – especially you, senpai – my friends makes me incredibly happy.

Playing mahjong or coming to the beach like this... these are things I wouldn't have even imagined doing before.

So, thank you.

For showing me this whole new world.

When Yui finishes speaking, the sun slowly dips below the horizon behind her.

As a red glow bathes the entire world, a subtle yet unmistakable smile graces Yui's lips.

To my eyes, she's smiling.

I should be the one thanking you, Yui.

After all, haven't I too discovered a new world all my own... thanks to her?

I want to see even more expressions on Yui's face in the future.

But for now, I'll keep these thoughts to myself.

Since coming back from the beach, I've been feeling feverish and weak...

I must have caught a cold... Guess I'll have to turn down the mahjong club's invitation.

My eyes feel so heavy... I need more sleep.

...

(Knock, knock)

Huh? Was I expecting a delivery today?

When I open the door, I find a familiar face – Yui, carrying two enormous shopping bags, one in each hand.

Yui...? What brings you here?

I saw your message in the group chat.

How are you feeling now? Are you okay?

I'm alright, my fever's gone down. Thanks for coming to check on me.

Your face... still looks a bit pale.

Really? Well, I've only just recovered, so...

What's in all those bags anyway?

Ingredients.

Hmm?

I thought I'd cook some nourishing food for you.

That way, you'll get better soon.

Ah, that's... really kind of you...

I never imagined Yui would come to cook for me. This girl who rarely shows emotions actually has such a thoughtful, caring side...

I invite her in, take the shopping bags, and peek inside to see what she's brought.

Let's see... what are you planning to cook?

Just one glance at these overstuffed shopping bags gives me a bad feeling...

One is packed with green onions, chives, and both white and red onions.

The other is filled with leeks, garlic, and...

Uh... what's this long, thin vegetable?

Victory onion.

That's an awful lot of onions...!

I read that they are good for a cold, so I bought a whole variety of them.

Eating all these should help cure your cold, right?

Ah, well... Technically... I guess.

Oh no, this is bad! I nearly forgot – I can't let her cook! The memory of what happened last time we went to the supermarket is still all too fresh in my mind.

But seriously, what kind of dish would use all these ingredients?

Actually, I just finished lunch, so I'm quite full at the moment.

But thanks for bringing all these ingredients. I'll keep them for later.

...

I'm sorry... I know you went out of your way for me, but I really can't eat anything more right now.

After putting all the ingredients in the refrigerator, I return to the front door.

Yui's face doesn't show much, but observing carefully, I can tell she's slightly disappointed.

Well... How about...

How about we go for a walk instead? I've been stuck in bed for days and my muscles are all stiff.

Okay.

It's subtle, but her eyes seem to light up a bit.

Where would you like to go?

Éternité.

They have excellent coffees. You've probably heard of it.

Oh, I know that place. I go there a lot.

At least they won't serve any bizarre culinary creations there...

Stepping into the familiar coffee shop, I casually greet the young manager, Reina Nanami.

Unlike my usual order, today we both get regular iced coffee at Yui's insistence.

Do you visit here often?

Yes, every week.

You're definitely a regular then... are you a big coffee fan?

I believe that... coffee is a science.

Oh? A science?

For starters, just the measurement of coffee beans is critical.

The slightest difference can drastically alter the taste. That's why when making coffee, you need to measure the beans precisely to the gram.

And the grinding process demands even more care.

You can't grind coffee beans too fast or too slow. You need to maintain the perfect speed to prevent excess heat from affecting the beans' flavor profile.

Plus, depending on the grind size, you'll need to use different brewing methods.

Beyond that, water temperature and pouring technique also influence the final result.

So, it seems like once you get into the details, there's always more to discover with coffee, huh?

It's exactly like a scientific experiment... where every reagent must be precisely measured.

Yes, but this shop does everything perfectly.

That's why their iced coffee is so good.

I see!

Although I still have my doubts about Yui's taste in food, after that detailed explanation, I'm actually eager to try the coffee she's recommended.

Your iced coffees, please enjoy.

I thank Reina and pick up the cup.

Just one sip and I immediately understand why Yui recommended it so highly.

It's really good.

A cool touch on the tongue, then a bloom of rich coffee aroma, leaving no sharp acidity or bitterness in its wake...

I never imagined it would be this good. Though I'm no coffee expert, I can tell it's exceptional from the very first taste.

Yes, it's excellent.

Senpai? Why are you looking like that?

Nothing, I'm just a bit emotional.

Yui has surprisingly good taste in coffee. Or more accurately, she's extremely knowledgeable about it.

And, her knowledge is extensive. Given the chance, she could probably talk about coffee until nightfall.

I thought Yui and I had become quite close, but I'm still discovering new aspects of her...

When did you start to love coffee?

Probably since I was young.

Before my parents passed away, they often taught me about coffee.

Everything from brewing methods to rare bean varieties and even cultivation techniques.

Did you know?

In some regions, people crack a whole raw egg – shell and all – into the ground coffee before brewing.

Those living near deserts make their coffee by brewing it on hot sand.

And in some other places, people drink a mix of coffee and black tea.

All of these... are things my parents taught me.

That's fascinating...

For someone usually so quiet, Yui is being remarkably talkative today.

While her face shows little emotion, her genuine enthusiasm for sharing is clear.

For just a moment, a shadow seems to cross Yui's eyes.

It's so subtle that you would totally miss it if you weren't paying attention.

Yui?

Somehow, the coffee I make never tastes good.

That's surprising. I would've thought Yui had a great palate for coffee.

What's your usual coffee-making process? Maybe we can troubleshoot together?

Well... I start by carefully selecting the coffee beans.

Mm-hmm.

Then I weigh the beans down to the gram. When grinding, I maintain the perfect speed so no excess heat transfers to the beans...

So far, so good?

Lastly, to enhance the aroma, I add a bit of fish powder to the ground coffee.

Hm-hmm.

Hold on, WHAT?!

I normally use primarily bonito, but I find that mixing in some flying fish and sardine powder gives the coffee a richer flavor profile.

As the final touch, I add a bit of that new seasoning Mirai just developed. I don't know what's in it, but she said to use about two tablespoons...

S-stop right there!

Your process was flawless until the grinding! Where did all these weird ingredients come from?!

After grinding, you should just brew it! Don't add anything strange!

I see. Are you suggesting I need to learn about "minimalism"?

I never thought of it like that. Thank you.

Oh, uh... no problem... That's just what people would usually expect, I guess?

Yes, I miss them dearly.

I'm sorry... I shouldn't have brought this up.

No, it's okay. I've already accepted that they're gone.

I see. You're really strong, Yui.

What were your parents like?

Like I said before, they were both scientists. I think they met at the laboratory where they worked.

Dad was usually quiet and didn't smile much. But he was actually very gentle and sometimes said quirky things to make us all laugh.

(Yui's personality probably comes from her father.)

Mom was outgoing and had many friends. She was always smiling brightly, and whenever I helped with chores, she'd pat my head...

Sounds like they were complete opposites.

Perhaps that's exactly why they got along so well.

Yeah, perhaps.

Yui sits there with the straw in her mouth, gazing at me without a word.

Is there something on my face again? I check with my hand, but don't find anything.

Hmm... Is everything okay?

Yeah, it's nothing.

I still can't figure out what she's thinking. But somehow, she looks happier than usual.

After leaving Éternité, we keep walking and eventually come to a pathway along the river.

The breeze is refreshing against my face. Though my cold just cleared up a bit, I feel like I could walk for miles.

Senpai, you're looking better.

Really? I do feel much more energetic now.

It's probably the coffee.

Yui appears to smile briefly, though the light reflecting off the water makes it difficult to tell for certain.

Sometimes, I wonder...

...what life would be like if my parents were still around.

Yui leans against the railing, her eyes narrowing slightly as she looks at the river.

I'm in college now, so I probably wouldn't be holding their hands walking home anymore. I might even be seeing them less and less frequently.

But no matter how old they got, we'd still be just as close to each other. We'd walk along rivers like this, having pleasant conversations.

Back home, my father would brew a pot of coffee, and we'd all share stories about our day.

I would just sit quietly, listening to their conversation.

Just listening would be enough to make me happy.

Senpai...

Yui turns to face me.

Have I really never moved on?

I thought I'd moved beyond the pain of losing them, but...

Every time I look back on the past, I just think... I can't keep being like this.

There's nothing wrong with that.

What?

This might not be my place, but there's no need to rush past your grief.

Sometimes it's okay not to be strong. There's nothing wrong with dwelling on memories of them.

Maybe. Thank you.

I join Yui at the railing, leaning against it as she does.

As the sun begins to set, its light dances across the water, making the gem-like sparkles even more radiant.

My parents were studying something about "parallel universes," I think.

Parallel universes? That sounds like science fiction.

I'm not entirely sure either. They didn't tell me much about it.

Are those like different universes from our own?

I thought so too. Though I'm just taking it literally...

It sounds incredible... could something like that actually exist?

I don't know.

Senpai, if there were another world, would you want to visit it?

That choice is so you.

And what about you? Would you want to visit another world?

I...

I'd rather cherish the world I'm in.

Because right now...

...you're right here with me, aren't you?

In a quiet moment, Yui's eyes meet mine.

It's a bit embarrassing to be stared at so directly from this close, but I know I shouldn't look away.

I look into her eyes that shimmer with the reflected sunset.

Haha, just kidding, we're not really... whoa?!

Before I can finish my sentence, Yui suddenly grips my hand tightly.

Her eyes are sparkling even more intensely now.

But somehow, I have a bad feeling about it!

Senpai!

Wh-what is it?!

With you by my side, I think I could become the ultimate coffee master...!

Th-the ultimate...?

Holding my hand, Yui breaks into a run.

I don't know our destination, but her determined pace is almost intimidating.

Uh... what is this place?

My go-to apothecary shop.

Your go-to... apothecary shop?

The old shop is filled with an unusual herbal smell.

The shelves are lined with containers holding various dried plants and animal parts.

Are all these... medicinal materials?

Uh... why an apothecary shop? I thought we were talking about coffee?

Medicinal coffee.

Huh?

This is the perfect answer I've found after years of research.

Coffee tastes good, and herbal medicines are good for health. So by combining the two, we create the perfect drink... Q.E.D.

Q.E.D. what?! That's not how this works! And what about the taste? Won't these additions completely ruin the flavor?!

*cough* Who's making all this noise? Can't even let an old woman get some peace and quiet...

An elderly woman in a black robe appears from behind the counter.

Though it's not so bad hearing someone else's voice in this shop for a change... *cough*

Anyway, what was the young lady talking about?

Medicinal coffee? Now that sounds intriguing.

!!

Let me help you pick the herbs. I'll give you a discount. *cough*

And, hehe... I'd like to taste the final product too.

Of course!

Yui? That glint in your eyes is rather alarming...

There's no stopping her now. She's completely in her own world.

Lost in discussion, Yui and the shop owner fill a paper bag with all sorts of bizarre ingredients.

Not even the most experimental barista would consider these as coffee ingredients...

Sorry to keep you waiting.

Oh, are you done?

Yes. I'm really excited about today's experiment.

What? Today?

Yes, right now. I'll head straight to your place and make it for you.

Uhhh, m-maybe...?!

While Yui's face doesn't show much, it's clear she's truly looking forward to brewing this for me.

That look... is just impossible to turn down.

Well, it is medicine, after all. At the very least, it should help with my cold.

It'll be fine... right?

On the way home, I try so hard to convince myself, leaving everything to fate, and her hands.

The moment the words left my mouth, I realized how embarrassing they were. I can already feel my face starting to burn.

(Is Yui going to think I'm ridiculous?)

Looking at her, I see Yui is quietly staring at the ground.

(Is she... embarrassed? Or disappointed?)

Yui's face is as expressionless as usual, but it's making me anxious that I can't tell what she's feeling right now.

Senpai...

Hm?

Since we met, has your life changed at all?

Yui asks with her head still down.

Well, how should I put it?

I'd say my world has become much wider.

You're exaggerating.

Not at all. All the incredible things you've shared have changed how I see the world.

And life has become so much more fascinating since I met you.

Senpai...

Yui keeps her head lowered.

You're such an unusual person. Do you know that?

Yui finally lifts her head, with what seems to be a faint smile.

It's really just the faintest smile, so subtle that only someone who's spent time with her and truly cares would notice it.

Your words seem ordinary, but they feel completely different from anyone else's.

That's why I'm always drawn to you.

And yes, I've changed a lot too, since meeting you.

I've become curious about myself.

I want to learn more about myself.

The breeze ruffles Yui's long hair as she turns her face away.

...Did you know?

I recently found out I have a serious weakness.

There's often a gap between what I think tastes good and what others enjoy.

But that's never been the case with coffee.

I'm sorry I never mentioned it.

Don't worry, it was pretty obvious.

I fight back the urge to point that out, searching my mind for something more supportive to say.

Let me help you work on this weakness.

Really? But can I really overcome it?

Absolutely, I promise.

Hehe.

This time, I'm sure Yui is actually smiling.

I definitely didn't imagine it.

We'll start by cooking together.

You've already bought all those ingredients, right? Even if they're nothing but onions.

Just curious, what were you planning to cook?

Burger steak.

Wait, what?

What?

It seems our journey to overcome this weakness will be long and difficult...

But I'm confident we'll succeed someday.

Walking home with Yui by my side, I keep telling myself it'll be okay.

But really, what are we going to do with all those onions she bought?

Hearing this, Yui's eyes grow wide.

This is the first time I've seen such a dramatic change in her expression.

Ah.

A glimmer of light trails down her cheek.

It's only when I see Yui hurriedly wipe at the corner of her eye that I realize it was a tear.

I-I'm sorry...

Matter can't be created or destroyed, it only changes form.

Um?

Yui turns away and starts speaking, her voice slow but determined.

But there's a faint quiver in her voice.

This is a basic principle of physics. Did you know about this?

I think... I've heard something like that before.

Just as I say it, I suddenly remember Yui mentioning her parents were scientists and how much she misses them.

I might not know anything about physics research, but I can tell she's trying to get something very important across to me.

Even when matter burns to ash, it transforms back into the very particles that will go on to form new substances, forever drifting through our world. That's how physics works.

So in a way, my parents are still part of this world.

Maybe the particles that once made them have just changed into something else, still present in this world.

...

Maybe...

What brought us together... could actually be them, now transformed into particles, drifting around us.

That's a beautiful way to look at it...

Am I getting too philosophical all of a sudden?

No, not at all.

Another teardrop slides down Yui's face.

I stay quiet, remaining by her side.

At a moment like this... it would be insensitive to stare at her tearful face.

Instead, I stand beside her, quietly sharing this view with her.

This beautiful world, this special moment... it's all a gift from those who are now woven into the particles of everything around us.

Senpai...

Yes?

Nothing. The sunset... it's beautiful, isn't it?

Yes, it is.

Without realizing it, we've already started walking forward.

Our destination is clear. Yui's ingredients are still waiting in my fridge.

Looking forward to our journey together, senpai.

A smile blooms on Yui's face, and it feels like my whole world just comes to a sudden, silent halt.

For them... for the particles still watching over us, I will protect this smile.