Thump, Thump, Thump…

Chop, chop…

It’s been a long time since I’ve heard such a joyful sound…

Spongy…

I felt a cold sensation on my forehead.

It feels good… I’m feeling hot, so this really soothes me…

“Nn…”

I… what am I…?

I can feel someone coming near.

“Takanashi-san, are you awake?”

“Sara… senpai…”

“Good morning… is not what I’d like to say. It will take a little longer, but I am preparing a meal for you, so please continue to stay awake.”

I’m wide awake now.

I must have fallen asleep.

That was a little… No, a lot sloppy side of me.

“I’m sorry. I must have fallen asleep for a long time…”

I looked at the clock; it was already past 6 pm.

“Your job, Takanashi-san, is to nourish yourself so that you can get over your cold quickly by getting some sleep. Other than that, it’s my job.”

Senpai smiled and said. For some reason, I can feel my face is heating up. Is my fever rising?

“Oh no, Takanashi-san! I think your fever might have risen…”

Senpai quickly came up to me and put her hand on my forehead…

“Hmm, it doesn’t seem to have risen, though.”

“No, I’m fine. It’s probably just the heat.”

“Ah! Maybe it was because I was using a cold towel, so that might have been the reaction.”

I see. So the cold and pleasant feeling was the cold towel?

That means she was taking care of me that much?

“Thank you very much. Because of that, I feel like I’ve had a good sleep.”

“I’m glad to hear that. Then, I’m preparing your meal, so please wait a little longer.”

There is a lovely smell coming from the kitchen. It looks like Senpai is cooking stew.

As expected, Senpai is impressive. How can I repay Senpai for doing this perfect homely thing?

Hum~Hum~

As I look at Senpai, who skillfully hums while cooking, I can feel my face heating up again… It’s due to my cold (maybe).

“Sorry to keep you waiting. Your meal is ready.”

I returned to my senses when I heard Senpai’s voice.

“T-Thank you for the meal.”

On the table was a stew filled with vegetables…?

It’s a cream stew with vegetables and chicken. It may not be enough, but your stomach may be weak from the cold, so please bear with it.”

“Such a thing! This! This is more than enough!”

“I’m glad to hear that. However, I’m afraid that tomorrow’s menu will be inadequate as well, so… I’ll make you a freshly cooked hamburger as a reward after you get over your cold.”

Freshly made!?

I’m so happy… Really, really happy!

“Fufu. You really are honest, Takanashi-san. If you make such a happy-looking face, it will be really worthwhile making it.”

“… Am I really that obvious?”

“Yes, very much.”

Is my expression really that apparent…?

No one ever said that to me before, but…

“Now, now, please eat it before it gets cold.”

…Of course, it was very delicious.

As expected, whatever Senpai cooks is really delicious.

——————————————

It was getting late by the time the senior had finished cleaning up.

I can’t escort her back, so I’m worried she doesn’t leave soon.

“Sara-senpai, I’m sorry for keeping you until this time… I can take care of the rest myself, so before it gets any later…”

“You’re right. I guess it’s time for me to go. I can’t believe how fast time has gone by.”

“I’d really like to give you something, but…”

“That’s okay. Your thoughts are well received. And there’s no need to rush. I will invite you to my house later.”

…Huh? W-Why?

“Ettu… is that the case?”

“Yes. You see, mother asked me to invite you from time to time.”

Ehh!!!?

Paying respects to her mother?

Why!!?

“But for now, please just think about getting over your cold. I’m sorry, but that’s all I have time for today. I’ll be back tomorrow morning.”

“Oh, wait a minute, Sara-senpai!”

That’s right. If I’m still asleep by the time Senpai comes, I’ll be giving her a hard time. Plus, I won’t be leaving the house anyway.

“Tomorrow, if I’m still asleep and am not awake by the time you came, I’ll give you trouble, so please take this key with you.”

“Is that really okay…?”

Senpai looked astonished and excited.

What? Did I do something strange?

For the time being, I gave her the key without minding it, and she received it firmly.

“Then, I’ll keep it. I’ll see you tomorrow… Good night, Takanashi-san.”

Senpai left with a big smile on her face.

As I was left alone and looked around my room, I noticed that the same setting, the standard room, looked strangely bleak…