When Two Wounded Hearts Find Solace In Each Other, Snow White (The School's Beauty) And I Were Mistakenly Labeled As A Silly Couple. - Chapter 86: Sightseeing In Hakone Brings Nothing But Happiness.

Sightseeing In Hakone Brings Nothing But Happiness.

“I’m so sleepy…”

Feeling the aftermath of a sleepless night, Himeno and I stroll through Hakone, hand in hand.

It’s Saturday, and the streets are bustling with what seems like tourists. But I’m not bothered; I’m too happy to care.

To be able to enjoy this Hakone date to the fullest, hand in hand with my beloved, is an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything.

While the rooms in the inn seem a bit vacant, the town is teeming with people, likely day-trippers out to explore Hakone.

For those within the prefecture, a day trip is a convenient way to enjoy Hakone. Some inns even offer plans allowing guests to immerse themselves solely in the hot springs.

If you can get the full Hakone hot spring experience in just a day, it’s no wonder enthusiasts would make the journey.

“No sleeping allowed, you know?”

Hearing her mention feeling sleepy during our special date, Himeno pouts, her cheeks slightly inflated, expressing her discontent.

Expressing sleepiness on a date wouldn’t be ideal.

“Don’t worry. I won’t fall asleep, I promise.”

“Hmm~…”

On this memorable first date, I pull Himeno closer, dispelling any traces of drowsiness.

While we occasionally displayed affection in public before, creating an illusion of dating, in Hakone, there’s no need for such pretense.

Yet, since officially becoming a couple, there’s an irresistible urge to be even more affectionate.

It’s only the second day, so we might appear overly lovey-dovey, but she reassured me that she doesn’t have to hold back. If she truly minds, she’ll let me know. So, there shouldn’t be an issue.

“Himeno…”

Seemingly oblivious to the people around us, she presses herself against me, cheek against my chest.

Love is indeed blind.

The glances we receive from passersby might be saying, “They’ve been all lovey-dovey since the morning… Stupid couple, explode already.” But I don’t feel embarrassed.

Even though it’s just the beginning of our journey, I want to make the most out of this date in Hakone.

“Let’s enjoy sightseeing to the fullest.”

“Yes.”

I stop embracing her and we start walking hand in hand, ready to fully enjoy sightseeing.

When people think of Hakone, they often picture famous foods like black onsen eggs  and black ice cream, as well as free foot baths. Today, Himeno is wearing a refreshing white dress that goes below her knees, a change from yesterday’s outfit. But with a bit of adjustment, she can still enjoy the foot bath by pulling up the hem.

Having already had breakfast at the inn, our first destination is a renowned foot bath spot we found on the map app.

***

“It feels so nice.”

“Yeah.”

We immediately link hands and soak our feet in the foot bath. I chose comfortable jeans, anticipating the foot bath, so rolling them up is easy. Himeno, on the other hand, neatly tucks her dress sleeves between her legs, ensuring that her underwear remains hidden.

“I’m so happy right now.”

Himeno places her head on my shoulder.

The sweet scent that I’ve always noticed intensifies. Starting this relationship has brought a new level of happiness.

“I feel the same way.”

Who wouldn’t be happy when starting a relationship? I want to stay like this forever, surrounded by happiness and affection.

“That’s great. Then, I won’t let you go forever.”

She tightens her grip even more, expressing a strong desire not to let go. Feeling this deeply cherished, I can’t help but be overwhelmed with happiness.

Previously, in a relationship focused on comforting each other, the happiness derived from physical affection is unparalleled. While I understood the happiness of holding hands with Marika, being affectionate with Himeno feels even more special.

It’s important not to lose my sense of decency, but I also don’t need to suppress my instincts too much. Trying to control my desires with reason might not sit well with Himeno.

“If that’s the case, I need to become a man worthy of Himeno.”

To match Himeno, who is considered as beautiful as Snow White, possesses top-notch academic abilities, and excels in physical activities, I realize that I have to put in a considerable amount of effort.

But for my beloved girlfriend, the effort is worthwhile, and I am more than willing to strive for it.

“But you already are. Besides, no one around us has said anything negative. You’re being acknowledged.”

Indeed, while some may be envious, no one has directly confronted us or told us to break up.

However, recognizing that everyone has the freedom to choose their relationships, I won’t be swayed by such comments.

Still, I understand that simply being in a relationship isn’t enough. I need to step up my game, and I plan to do so.

“It’s good to hear that you’ll support me if I work hard.”

“Thank you.”

Feeling a deep sense of happiness, I’ve made up my mind to put in the effort and strive for improvement.