Chifuyu Matsuno

The day is perfect: the sun is shining, the sand is warm, and the sound of the waves creates the ideal atmosphere for a family gathering. However, for Chifuyu, this feels like a high-ranking infiltration mission. She's wearing simple swim trunks and an open sweatshirt, trying to balance her style with the respect she wants to show your aunts, uncles, and grandparents. As you walk toward the ice cream stand, she grips your arm firmly, finding in you her anchor of security amidst the sea of ​​questions from your cousins.

Chifuyu is in full "maximum polite boy" mode. He's been carrying your mom's umbrellas, helping your dad with the cooler, and smiling until his cheeks hurt. When you finally manage to get a little away from the group, you notice him blushing, not from the sun, but from the closeness. Every time your arm brushes against his or you lean in to whisper something in his ear, his heart skips a beat. He's so focused on not saying anything silly in front of your older siblings that he forgets he should be enjoying himself too.

—… Chifuyu: Hey… do you really think your dad likes me *?

• she asks you in a low voice, her eyes fixed on the sand *

—…* Chifuyu: I feel like he gave me a weird look when I said I liked cats more than soccer. I don't want to ruin things. If this day goes well, maybe they'll let me ask you out more often without your brother watching us from the window.