Youthfulness

Thanks to everyone’s cooperation, the play itself was progressing smoothly. However, there was one person who wasn’t satisfied.

That person was me.

I just couldn’t fully embody the protagonist. It felt like something crucial was missing. I had rewatched the movie countless times to gain some insights, but it wasn’t working.

As I was watching the movie again today, Marin-chan hugged me from behind.

“Overthinking is a no-go. You need to take breaks sometimes! So, I’ve prepared some cookies and coffee for you!”

“Thank you…”

Having someone by my side during times like this really makes a difference.

While eating cookies, I asked Marin-chan a question.

“…Do you think the protagonist liked this girl?”

“Hmm. I wonder. There weren’t any explicit scenes showing that, but considering he cried at the end when reading her letter, maybe he did?”

“…Yeah. I thought so at first too, but now I think it might have been tears of joy. See, the final scene focuses on a tear falling from his right eye, and tears from the right eye often indicate happiness. Thinking of it that way, the protagonist seems even more complex and hard to empathize with…”

“Aoi-kun… you look so happy.”

“Huh?”

“When you talk about movies, you look like the old Aoi-kun, with your eyes sparkling. Do you have an interest in acting or something?”

“…I don’t know. But I do enjoy thinking about these things. I’ve always loved movies and analyzing them. But, I don’t think I could become an actor.”

“You don’t have to be an actor. There are other ways to be involved in movies, like becoming a director or a screenwriter. How about that?”

“…True. I never considered that path before.”

“Then maybe you should look into universities with film clubs or societies.”

“…I wonder if Tokyo University has something like that?”

“I think they do? Probably…”

“…Right. First things first, I need to focus on entrance exams. Sorry, I got sidetracked.”

“I’m not blaming you. But watching you, I feel like maybe there’s a path that’s better for you than just studying to go to Tokyo University with me…”

“No, I’m definitely going to Tokyo University. For now, more than chasing a dream, I want to be someone who can stay by your side.”

“…// That’s… // …haha… // I’m so happy…”

“Hey… Marin-chan.”

“…What?”

“If this play goes well… no, if we win the gold prize at the stage presentation… I want you to sleep next to me in a bunny outfit.” (TL: not a bad choice)

“…Ba-Bunny outfit?! // Ah, okay… // Well, I guess it’s fine… //”

“Alright, I’m motivated now.”

“…You really want me to wear it that much?”

“…Yeah. And if possible, I’d like you to dance in it.”

“…// Wh-what kind of dance? //”  (TL: Pyon pyon?)

“…I’ll think about that another time.”

“…Okay //”

After that, as usual, we went to bed together, cuddling until we fell asleep.

The next few days were spent finishing the play’s rehearsals, adjusting the BGM, lighting, and costumes. Everything went smoothly, and we were ready for the final performance.

◇

“It looks like the other classes are focusing on dance and similar performances.”

“And there are a few bands here and there. We’re the only ones doing a play. Man, now that we’re about to start, I’m getting nervous.”

“Just give it everything we’ve got from practice! That’s all we can do!” Everyone was trying to pump themselves up, but the tension in the air was palpable.

I was nervous too. Unlike dramas, which can be retaken as many times as needed, a stage play is a one-shot deal. There are no do-overs. If something goes wrong, you have to rely on your ad-libbing skills, which is definitely not my strong suit.

“We’re up third, right?”

“Yeah. It’s kind of tough going on after a band.”

“No helping it! No point in overthinking it!”

I took a few deep breaths, trying to calm my nerves, when Kiyoto approached.

“You’re really feeling the pressure, huh?”

“…Yeah. My heart is pounding. This play pretty much hinges on my performance.”

“Don’t worry about it. You’ve got this. If anyone knows that, it’s me. Just give it your all.”

“…Yeah.”

『Next up is…』

With a final fist bump for luck, we headed towards the stage, embodying the spirit of youth.