She Became Distressed After I Stopped Being Restrained and Started Interacting with Others - Chapter 10

Shiori smiled contentedly and gently took my hand.

“Shall we go then?”

For just a moment, I hesitated as Shiori began walking with light steps.

But the warmth of her hand seemed to ease my loneliness just a little, and I slowly started walking too.

We left the classroom and walked side by side down the hallway bathed in sunset hues.

There were hardly any other students around anymore, and it was quiet.

“Hey, Nanase-san, do you like sweets?”

“…Sweets?”

“Yeah. Don’t you think eating something sweet gives you a little energy boost when you’re tired?”

I thought for a moment about Shiori’s question. Sweets… I don’t dislike them.

But what came to mind immediately were the things I’d eaten with Honoka.

“…I’m not sure. I’ve never really thought about it much.”

“I see. But since we’re here, why don’t we try something today?”

“Try something?”

“Yeah. Let’s go get some delicious sweets where we’re headed and change our mood.”

Shiori’s suggestion was more casual than I expected.

I could sense her intention to help me relax.

“If it’s boring, we can leave right away. Just take it easy.”

Still holding my hand, Shiori continued walking cheerfully.

When we left the school building, the sky was already growing dark, with just a hint of sunset remaining in the west. Shiori led me past the school gates.

“Hey, do you know that cafe over there?”

The place Shiori pointed to was a cafe I’d visited before with Honoka.

Beyond the large glass windows, warm lights glowed, creating a calm atmosphere.

“…I’ve been here before with Honoka.”

“Really? Their sweets are pretty good. Want to stop by?”

Without waiting for my answer, Shiori naturally pushed open the cafe door.

As we entered, a sweet fragrance wafted over us. The cake display case was lined with colorful desserts, and soft music played quietly.

“Here, which one do you want?”

Shiori picked up a menu and held it out to me. Looking down, I saw an array of vibrant parfaits, simple shortcakes, and rich-looking chocolate cakes.

“…Hmm.”

“If you can’t decide, should I choose for you?”

Shiori said with a smile.

Her voice was somehow soothing, gently unraveling the tension inside me.

“Then, what do you recommend?”

“Hmm, I like their berry tart here. It’s not too sweet and has a bit of tartness.”

For a moment, I thought of Honoka. I think Honoka liked sweets with fruity tartness like this too.

“…I’ll have that.”

“Hehe, good choice. Then let’s get two of those.”

After placing our order with the staff, Shiori led me to a window seat.

In the cafe’s peaceful atmosphere, I finally let out a deep breath.

“Don’t you feel a little more relaxed like this?”

Shiori said quietly.

“…Yeah, maybe.”

“Times like these are important too. Just eating something delicious without thinking about anything.”

As she spoke, Shiori smiled slowly. That smile somehow seemed to gradually seep into my heart.