When I Helped Out At My Classy Classmate's Family Home, They Started Going All Out To Close In On Me From Every Angle. - Chapter 28: Does going out with a girl count as a date?  ―2

Does going out with a girl count as a date?  ―2

After deciding to watch the movie together, it took a little while before we could leave.

“If possible, may I take some time to dress up?”

Ayame had requested this of me.

I’ve heard that fashion is important for women, so—

“Sure, take your time. I’ll wait,”
I readily agreed.

And now, we were walking down the street, heading toward the shopping mall with a movie theater inside.

Walking beside me, Ayame was as beautiful as a white lily. She seemed to radiate an almost sparkling aura.

Her outfit was stunning: a white cut-sew with delicate frills, paired with a khaki short cami dress. She also wore a matching khaki beret.

On her feet were brown short boots, and she carried a khaki shoulder bag slung diagonally across her body.

Her makeup seemed light but gave her a more mature look than usual.

Ayame, already stunning on a regular day, had transformed into nothing less than a goddess of beauty after dressing up.

Passersby couldn’t help but steal glances at her. Even men on dates seemed captivated, only to earn the jealous pinches of their girlfriends.

Walking next to Ayame still made me a little nervous, but lately, I had started to feel more joy than anxiety. I couldn’t help but feel proud to be beside someone as breathtaking as her.

Still, being this beautifully dressed meant she might attract some unwanted attention. That was my only concern.

Ayame was often approached by strangers even in her usual attire. Now that she had dressed up, it wouldn’t be surprising if someone tried to flirt with her—even with me right next to her.

If that happened, I’d have to rely on Mikage for help. She was probably watching over Ayame from somewhere, as always.

Thinking that, I began scanning the surroundings to spot Mikage. However, I couldn’t find her anywhere.

That’s strange. Mikage’s loyalty to Ayame is unwavering, so I was sure she’d be following us…

As I frowned in confusion, Ayame looked up at me.

“What’s wrong, Tetsu-kun? Why are you looking around so much?”

“I was wondering where Mikae might be, so I was looking for her,”
I answered, only for Ayame to pout in irritation.

“That’s a no-go.”
“Huh?”
“What’s the big idea, bringing up another woman while you’re out with a girl?”
“Uh… Is that bad?”
“It’s bad! Reflect on your actions!”
“O-okay, I got it.”

Ayame was clearly displeased, her cheeks puffing up like a pufferfish. Thinking it best not to provoke her any further, I bowed my head sincerely.

It seemed I had upset her. Understanding a girl’s feelings is really tough.

While I slumped my shoulders, Ayame let out a small sigh and finally answered my earlier question.

“Mikae is training with her grandfather today.”
“Training?”
“Yes. Her grandfather is the one who taught her martial arts.”
“I see.”
“So, today—”

Ayame took my hand.

Her unexpected touch made my heart skip a beat. She looked straight at me, her gaze unwavering.

“Today, Tetsu-kun, you’ll protect me, won’t you?”

Her upturned eyes sparkled with anticipation. It was clear what kind of response she wanted to hear.

But saying it out loud was embarrassing. Especially while she was staring directly at me.

So instead, I averted my gaze and gave her hand a gentle squeeze.

“I don’t think I can fully take Mikae’s place, but I’ll do my best.”
“Yes! I’m counting on you!”

When I glanced at her, Ayame was smiling so radiantly it could be mistaken for a blooming flower.

My cheeks grew warm, and a smile crept onto my face.

But no, I couldn’t let myself get carried away. I had to stay focused.

Telling myself this, I tightened my expression.

Since I had made a promise, I had to properly protect Ayame. With Mikae absent, I was the only one Ayame could rely on.

A sense of determination and responsibility began to stir within me.

I straightened my posture—but then a thought struck me.

If Mikae wasn’t here, then it was just Ayame and me, alone together. Ayame was dressed up, and we were holding hands. This situation, could it possibly be—

The realization hit me, and my entire body flushed with heat, not just my face.

Wait. Am I… on a date with Ayame right now?