My Little Sister Is the Best F*p Material - Volume 5 Chapter 11: Is It Okay If I Like You?

Volume 5 Chapter 11: Is It Okay If I Like You?

My conversation with Yamamoto-san was sparse as we walked through the department store. Rather, even when I tried to talk, she only responded with quiet nods. We were just moving forward because the floor continued, aimlessly. The awkward silence wasn’t unpleasant, and after a while, I grew accustomed to it, deciding that sometimes doing nothing was necessary. I enjoyed window shopping, letting the time pass.

“Um… what does this mean…?”

Yamamoto-san’s neck, where her loose hair fell, was faintly red, and her gaze was cast downward.

I was holding Yamamoto-san’s hand. As we walked, I noticed her hand brushing against mine repeatedly, so I took her hand in mine. Her reaction, a slight shiver, was adorable.

Miyu instructed me to “abandon the pretense of having a girlfriend and just make Kanade happy,” so I’m doing as I please. But since Yamamoto-san initiated it, I’m not entirely at fault.

“After leaving your place, Miyu scolded me. She said it was unfair of me to attract your attention and then suddenly reject you.”

Honestly, I had regrets too. While I want to prioritize Miyu, I felt it was wrong to not value Yamamoto-san if I truly loved Miyu. No matter how self-serving that thought was.

“That sounds like Miyu.”

Yamamoto-san seemed to understand, tightening her grip on our awkwardly joined hands.

“So…”

I’m not perfect enough to not want to be close to Yamamoto-san. Just a few months ago, I was a socially inept otaku. There’s no way I wouldn’t develop feelings for such a cute girl who approached me.

In reality, it’s not about “liking Miyu, so I don’t like Yamamoto-san” or vice versa. But societal norms force us to choose one, making it feel like choosing someone means abandoning another. We hide our true feelings, but there’s nothing to gain from concealing love.

I’m using Miyu’s instructions as an excuse to be honest. Since I’ve started being honest, Yamamoto-san’s behavior has become more genuine. This must be Miyu’s plan—to make us reveal our true feelings.

“Miyu told me to reconcile with you no matter what, so I did this. Was it a bad idea?”

When I asked, Yamamoto-san quickly tightened her grip and shook her head.

“I think this will help us reconcile faster.”

She snuggled close to my side, then took a step back. I didn’t know this since I had little experience holding hands, but walking side by side with a slight distance is more comfortable for the arms.

Despite having already had more intimate experiences than most couples, we walked through the department store like virgins on their first date, awkwardly chatting. Holding hands like this reminded me of when we went to buy condoms together. The cashier gave us dirty looks back then. If I were in their position, I’d feel the same, so I’m just sorry.

During that week, I had sex with Yamamoto-san many times, and in the end, we had sex while Miyu was on the phone. Thinking about it now, Yamamoto-san seems to enjoy showing off, or maybe she’s more possessive than I thought. Miyu, on the other hand, loves marking her territory, so even when we’re alone, we end up competing. Being fought over by cute girls is a man’s dream, but it’s complicated when you’re involved.

“We’ve covered this floor.”

We stopped in front of the last store on the floor, which was essentially a dead end. We were too busy feeling each other’s heartbeats through our hands to pay attention to the shops.

“Where should we go next?”

Yamamoto-san asked, her gaze intense, clearly wanting to prolong this time together.

What should I do? Since this has turned into a date, I, as the man, should take the lead.

“Is there anywhere you want to go?”

This department store has as many shops as a small mall. Though the station isn’t particularly bustling, it’s a hub for lines that connect to central Tokyo with just one transfer, so it’s been developing rapidly in recent years.

If Yamamoto-san doesn’t have a preference, we could go to the crepe shop on the first floor. Before leaving, Miyu mentioned a popular dessert there.

“Somewhere I want to go… hmm, let me think.”

Yamamoto-san swung our joined hands like a kindergartener, smiling. Her gradual regression into cuteness is endearing.

“Maybe… somewhere we can be alone…?”

She flirted shyly, clearly pent-up with desire. I’ve felt it for a while—her resistance to physical contact is much lower than I expected, thanks to Miyu’s presence keeping her in check. It’s hard to believe this is the same person who scolded me for cheating. All of this is going according to Miyu’s plan, which she sent via text.

Yamamoto-san’s exceptional abilities have shielded her from envy and malice, allowing her to grow up without ill intent. Unlike Yuka, who can ruthlessly cut ties, Yamamoto-san is deeply affected when she’s involved. Compared to Yuka’s skill in justifying and pushing through, Yamamoto-san’s self-purification of malice is non-functional. Her absolute confidence in her abilities made her reject infidelity entirely, but now that her core belief has been shaken, she can’t let go, causing her immense guilt.

Miyu called it Yamamoto-san’s first serious love in her message. Given what Yamamoto-san has shared, that’s undoubtedly true. But I feel there’s more to it. There must be another reason why she’s so openly expressing her feelings. It’s my responsibility to find out.

“Hehe, just kidding. There’s a jewelry shop on the upper floor with brands I’ve never seen, so I’d like to check it out.”

Yamamoto-san, as if covering up her invitation to a hotel, quickly pulled me up the escalator.

She led me to a high-end jewelry store with accessories displayed in showcases. I was worried if we, dressed in casual summer outfits, would fit in, but seeing a man in sandals and shorts chatting with a clerk inside, I felt less hesitant to enter. I was embarrassed about being seen holding hands, but since Yamamoto-san was gripping mine tightly, I gave up resisting.

“Three thousand dollars for a diamond piece. That’s considered high-end for accessories, right?”

“Yeah. Fashion jewelry can be bought for under ten dollars, and even the more expensive ones are around three hundred.”

The small gemstone earrings featured pearls on chains or metal shaped into hearts and clovers. However, most of the price came from the diamonds, and since the carat count was the same, any choice would be similarly priced.

“I have plenty of earrings, but I’ve never bought a ring. Which one do you think is best, Sotomichi-kun?”

Yamamoto-san casually asked, implying she wanted to buy the ring I liked.

The metal colors were primarily gold and silver, with variations in pink and yellow tones, and the gemstone settings differed. The basic colors were flashy and luxurious, but the tinted ones blended better with skin tones, making pink gold a good fashion choice. However, since Yamamoto-san is a goddess-level beauty, the luxurious ones might suit her everyday style better.

Lost in thought, I didn’t notice Yamamoto-san staring at me until it was too late.

“What’s up?”

Her intense gaze was overwhelming.

“I’m happy you’re taking it seriously. Your profile is so handsome.”

Yamamoto-san’s eyes sparkled more than the gems as she looked at me.

“It’s an expensive purchase.”

Feeling restless, I quickly chose a ring. Most of the immediately visible ones had similar designs, but a ring in another case was simple and elegant, which I thought would suit Yamamoto-san perfectly.

“That ring over there would look great on you.”

When I pointed, Yamamoto-san blushed and shook her head.

“Sotomichi-kun, that’s a wedding ring.”

She smiled coyly, “Ufufu,” leaving me flustered. I quickly chose a slender gold ring I’d noticed earlier and told her. Without hesitation, she called the clerk and bought it on the spot.

I was temporarily freed from holding hands to pay, waiting outside the store. Yamamoto-san chatted happily with the clerk who took over.

“I put it on already.”

She approached me outside the store, a gold ring gleaming on her left ring finger.

Right, the left hand. Fashion rings don’t have specific meanings, right? She just chose that finger because it looked good.

“… Is this bad?”

Yamamoto-san rubbed the ring, her eyes darting. Even if she tried to convince herself it had no special meaning, she couldn’t ignore its traditional significance.

“If you think it looks best there, it’s fine.”

“I do think it suits this finger best.”

She continued to fiddle with the ring, her gaze down. After a moment, she stopped, looked up apologetically, and smiled shyly.

“I lied. I was excited to wear it on this finger.”

“Then let’s move it to your right hand.”

“Okay…”

The ring on her right hand looked just as beautiful as I’d imagined. The gold complemented her hand’s size and tone perfectly. I’d made a good choice.

“The ring suits you well.”

This is basic manners for a man, regardless of our relationship. Since she bought and showed me the ring, I had to compliment her.

“Thank you, Sotomichi-kun. I’ll treasure it forever.”

I’m glad she’s happy. She seemed genuinely pleased with the design, which made me feel good. But thinking about the person she’ll eventually date, the idea of her treasuring it forever is complicated.

If Yamamoto-san’s earrings were a gift from an ex, I wouldn’t ask her to throw them away. But that’s because we’re not dating.

“Where to next?”

Since we came to the jewelry shop at Yamamoto-san’s suggestion, it’s my turn to lead her somewhere. But I’ll skip the crepe shop. It would inevitably lead to feeding each other, and I need to cool down. At this rate, I might fall for Yamamoto-san.

“Can we check out the household goods section? I need to buy something.”

“Of course. Let’s go together.”

We naturally held hands again and continued walking through the department store. I’ve never been on a date like this with Miyu, so I feel guilty. I wonder what Miyu thinks of this interaction with Yamamoto-san.

“What do you need to buy, Sotomichi-kun? Stationery?”

“Yeah, I need highlighters and sticky notes.”

Since I’ve been motivated to study, I’ve been researching methods online. Many recommend using Post-it notes, so I want to get some.

When we arrived at the store, Yamamoto-san immediately let go of my hand inside. With so many people around, it was probably too crowded to hold hands. Her consideration is so like her.

We headed to the stationery section, and I thought we’d finish shopping quickly. But Yamamoto-san suddenly stopped in front of a display of loose-leaf paper, envelopes, and other office supplies, including anime collaboration items.

I wondered if she’d found something cute, so I followed her gaze. There, I saw marriage registration forms.

Why are marriage forms here? Aren’t they supposed to be obtained from the city office? The forms with anime characters printed on them didn’t seem official. Were they for children’s pretend play? Yet the fields looked identical to the real ones.

“Oh, sorry.”

Yamamoto-san quickly looked away from the forms and started walking again. I decided not to ask what she was thinking.

“You’re using the sticky notes for studying, right? I can recommend some good ones.”

“That would help. I’ve only ever solved problems, never studied properly.”

Yamamoto-san helped me pick out user-friendly sticky notes and pens. She said brighter colors like pink and blue were better for taking neat notes than the usual yellow and red.

I tried a few on the sample paper, and it became clear which colors and thicknesses were best for writing and underlining. Just experimenting with different pens seemed to boost my motivation.

“Are you buying any too, Yamamoto-san?”

While I tested her recommendations, Yamamoto-san quietly wrote something herself. Seeing her so cheerful, I wondered if she was drawing something, but she’d written our names under a pair of umbrellas.

“Sotomichi-kun’s closest is still Miyu-chan, right?”

On the other side of the umbrella from my name was Miyu’s. And next to that, in a smaller font, was Yamamoto-san’s name.

“I wish we could all get married… though I’m not sure Miyu-chan would allow it.”

It’s not permitted under this country’s laws. Even my marriage to Miyu is an unattainable wish. Thinking about it, our relationship is a twisted love triangle.

“Miyu-chan would be the first wife, and I’d be second. We’d both find time to give you our love.”

“And my free time…?”

“You’ll have to manage.”

“Y-Yes.”

I can’t imagine what life would be like in that scenario. It’s both exciting and terrifying.

“I’d want to be the closest to you, though.”

Yamamoto-san muttered her true feelings. As I thought, she’s possessive. I’m lucky to be so loved.

“I, Yamamoto Kanade, in sickness and in health…”

Yamamoto-san erased her small name next to Miyu’s and wrote it next to mine, encircling it with a heart. It looked like an affair, but given our situation, I couldn’t deny it.

“I’ll cook delicious meals for you every day and make love passionately every night, I promise.”

Yamamoto-san wrote “誓約” (pledge) in elegant calligraphy. Her bold promise felt genuine, as if she could truly make me happy. Then, she quickly scribbled over it with a black pen.

“Miyu-chan would definitely get mad at this.”

There was no shadow in Yamamoto-san’s tone. As she shares her true feelings, she’s gradually accepting our situation.

“Yamamoto-san…”

She’s so kind that I knew she wouldn’t get angry no matter what I asked. I’ve wanted to ask her this for a while, even though we both knew the answer but never addressed it directly.

“Why do you like me?”

“Why I like you?”

Yamamoto-san didn’t seem surprised by my question. She tucked her hair behind her ear and looked composed.

“You’ll probably be surprised by the answer.”

Her response was straightforward, neither evasive nor teasing. I expected her to hesitate, but she seemed ready to speak.

“When we had sex at my place for a week, you never asked about my past relationships, right?”

Yamamoto-san’s sudden question made me recall vaguely. I was too focused on how amazing the sex was to remember anything else, but if she says so, it must be true.

“That’s why I fell for you.”

She said this and poked my forearm with her finger.

Her confession was unexpectedly brief. I was taken aback. What does that mean?

“So, past partners usually asked about your previous relationships?”

“Nfufu, no.”

Yamamoto-san laughed knowingly, enjoying my reaction.

“Most often, it was when I cooked.”

She spoke nostalgically, as if it wasn’t a painful memory, or perhaps it no longer hurt.

“When I visited my partners, I often cooked for them. And every time, they’d ask, ‘Did you cook for your ex too?’ They’d avoid asking about past relationships regarding sex or gifts, but when it came to cooking, they’d always bring it up.”

Yamamoto-san’s cooking is perfect in taste and presentation, a real treat for anyone. But as a boyfriend, knowing another man enjoyed the same meals might feel awkward. Especially since she’s an unparalleled beauty. Anyone would want to monopolize her.

“So I’d tell them, ‘Yeah, I did.’ Of course I did. I liked them, even if it was temporary. But then, they’d stop saying it tasted good.”

Yamamoto-san’s eyes were slightly red as she expressed her frustration. Just for falling in love, she’s blamed—it must be unbearable for her.

“That’s always how things start to go wrong. In the end, as I mentioned before, they’d get anxious about not being good in bed and say, ‘You did it with your ex, so you’ll do it with me too,’ and they’d push for sex right away. Most of the time, we’d fight, and they’d break up with me.”

I’m sure they were all good people at the start of the relationship. But if they self-destruct due to their insecurities despite her devotion, there’s nothing Yamamoto-san can do. She mentioned something similar during the mystery-solving session.

It’s so like Yamamoto-san to have poured love into each relationship. I wouldn’t think I’m the only one such a beautiful girl could fall for. Miyu, with her nature and personality, would only love one person absolutely.

“I wouldn’t want my past dug up either.”

I don’t intend to erase the hopeless man I once was. Doing so would negate what Miyu did for me and my own efforts. But having others judge me for it is a different matter.

If I were in a relationship with Yamamoto-san, would I have been concerned about her past? If Miyu had an ex, I’m not sure I could stay calm either. Being directly involved seems to make a difference.

“So, aren’t you curious about how many people I’ve been with?”

Yamamoto-san’s sudden question made me flustered.

“Uh, well… now that you mention it, I guess I am.”

“Hmm. Then I won’t tell you.”

Even now, Yamamoto-san is holding back. Maybe I should have said I wasn’t curious to get a better reaction.

“I’m not uninterested, but I like the current you, so it doesn’t really matter.”

“Oh, you say that, and now I’m even more smitten.”

Yamamoto-san poked my cheek with her finger, hard enough to be painful—a serious attempt to hide her embarrassment.

“Don’t you think I didn’t pry into your past because we weren’t dating?”

“No, I don’t.”

Her denial was firm and confident.

“I sense something from you, Sotomichi-kun. I can’t explain it well, but there’s a comfort in being with you that makes me want to be around you. So, I’m sure you wouldn’t ask questions that would upset people.”

Yamamoto-san’s answer was vague, but I’ve heard similar things from others—Sachiko, Yuka’s friends, and even Halmaki. I wonder why.

“And there are so many other reasons why I like you. I’ve told you quite a bit, but it seems like you’ve only taken in half of it.”

“S-Sorry…”

Yamamoto-san took advantage of the lack of people around and leaned in close. I’m not sure if she’s praising or scolding me. Has she really complimented me that much? I remember some memorable moments, but not that many. I wish I were more perceptive.

“Also, this is something I don’t understand why you’re not aware of. Being able to cook and having stamina in bed are amazing qualities that others don’t have. You’re attractive both as a person and as a man. Otherwise, you wouldn’t have been the first person I let suck on my breasts.”

“What!? Really!?”

“See, you didn’t notice. I didn’t bother confirming because I figured you wouldn’t believe me anyway.”

Standing before these incredible breasts and not sucking on them before parting ways—what was the point of the relationship? Wait, calm down. I’m thinking something terribly rude. Calm down, me. Just calm down.

“Umm, let’s head out. We’re drawing attention from people over there.”

“It’s because you’re speaking so loudly, Sotomichi-kun. Here, these are my recommendations. Meet me in front of the store after you pay. I’ll just check out some cosmetics.”

Yamamoto-san placed the items in her basket and headed to the cosmetics section. As she left, I thought I saw a smirk on her profile—probably not my imagination.

After leaving the store, I waited for Yamamoto-san. For some reason, my chest felt restless. When she approached, she seemed more girlish than before.

“Welcome back. Did you get your makeup done?”

“Hmm? Nothing’s changed.”

She flipped her hair and stood beside me. I unconsciously took her outstretched hand, and we naturally held hands like lovers. I felt a creeping anxiety at how accustomed I’ve become to this. Yamamoto-san’s cuteness is definitely getting to me. Objectively, she’s incredibly beautiful.

We started walking without a clear destination. I’ve lost sight of not just our destination but even the purpose of this date. What should I do now?

Miyu told me to make Yamamoto-san happy as I see fit, implying I could even have sex with her. But eventually, I’ll have to reaffirm that Miyu is my top priority. Making Yamamoto-san fall deeper for me now would only lead to unfulfilled wishes, which is cruel.

“Sotomichi-kun…”

Yamamoto-san suddenly spoke up. We continued window shopping without looking at any stores.

“Miyu-chan is allowing us to be close to help us reconcile, right?”

She leaned into me, still holding hands. Having once rejected her, I didn’t pull away, and she seemed to understand the situation.

“Yeah, at least until we reconcile.”

To begin with, asking us to reconcile in this situation is confusing. We’re already close—to outsiders, we look like a couple in love. It’s Miyu and Yamamoto-san who need to reconcile, I think.

“So, Miyu-chan wants us to remain close, for me to love you as a person, and for these romantic feelings to fade. That’s what’s expected, right?”

“That’s the idea. It’s a lot to ask of you, though.”

“… I’m given the choice to either get over my feelings or wait for them to fade. I’m grateful, not resentful.”

It’s a complicated situation. Yamamoto-san’s romantic outcome is in my hands, and I’ve left that decision to Miyu, whose instructions remain unclear.

Our current relationship is a delicate balance of conflicting choices, floating ambiguously without a foundation, waiting for external factors to tip the scale.

“Being this close to you is allowed because Miyu-chan thinks that if I’m honest and indulge in my feelings, they’ll eventually fade. So, I’ve been sharing everything on my mind.”

Yamamoto-san suddenly slowed her pace and stopped. I also thought Miyu’s goal was to make us reveal our true feelings.

But in reality, her feelings haven’t faded at all. In fact—

“… I do feel clearer. I’ve said what I wanted to say, and the weight on my chest is gone. Thanks to that, I’ve faced my true feelings. And…”

Yamamoto-san hesitated, but her conclusion was clear even without words.

Because it’s an emotion I share, though not identical to hers. Still, it’s unmistakably conveyed.

From school, that week, and today—being together has been more enjoyable than with anyone else.

“I think I’ve fallen even more for you, Sotomichi-kun.”

Her words became her heartbeat, transmitted through our arms, syncing with my own. The loud thumping in my ears was overwhelming.

“What should I do?”

Yamamoto-san whispered softly into my ear, her body pressing closer, no longer hiding her feelings.

“Umm… well…”

After all this sweetness, it’s impossible not to fall deeper. I feel the same. If continuing to make her happy is the goal, it might lead to a serious confession. Is it too late? Or was this Miyu’s plan all along?

“Let’s not cling like this in public for now.”

“Oh, sorry. I just… feel more at ease this way.”

Yamamoto-san linked arms instead, leaving a slight gap between us. Her desire, both romantic and physical, was palpable, and my own heart raced, triggering a restless arousal I couldn’t ignore. Maybe we should call it a day.

“… Hey, Sotomichi-kun.”

Yamamoto-san studied my face intently. When I turned to her, she enveloped my right hand, holding the shopping bag, in both of hers.

“You’ve been spacing out at odd moments today. Is something on your mind?”

She must have sensed my motives—Miyu’s instructions and Haruto’s help in making her happy.

“Ah… well…”

I can’t lie if pressed. Given the situation, she probably won’t push further.

Yamamoto-san squeezed my hand tightly, her cheeks flushed, waiting for my answer. Her tension was palpable.

I didn’t realize what I’d said until later.

“I… might be falling for you, Yamamoto-san.”

The words slipped out, raw and unplanned. Hearing my own voice, so earnest and unexpected, and seeing Yamamoto-san’s face turn bright red, I was overwhelmed with regret and panic.

“Umm… well… Miyu’s still first, but…”

I tried to save face, but I’m not sure she heard. Her grip tightened painfully, showing she was equally overwhelmed.

“Sotomichi-kun, if you don’t mind…”

My words seemed to free her, and she finally spoke her heart.

“Would you come to my place?”

She looked at me directly, her affection undeniable.

“Sure. Let’s go.”

We intertwined our fingers, sharing a sweet, tense moment, and headed to the bus stop.

In the summer afternoon sun, Yamamoto-san’s vibrant body seemed especially alluring.