The closing ceremony ended in the morning.
That day, instead of going home, Arisa headed straight to Yuzuru’s place.
They both changed into casual clothes, had a light lunch at a nearby café, and then began preparing properly for Christmas.
As for ingredients, Yuzuru had already bought everything as instructed beforehand, so all that remained was the cooking.
“Well then, Yuzuru-san, I’ll handle the cooking—could you take care of the decorations?”
“Yeah, leave it to me.”
Yuzuru didn’t usually bother with Christmas decorations.
But today was a day he was spending with Arisa.
Thinking that, he found himself naturally motivated.
And by the time he finished decorating…
A delicious aroma filled the air.
“Yuzuru-san, it’s ready. Could you help me set the table?”
“Sure.”
Baguette.
A wreath-style avocado and shrimp salad.
Beef stew.
Roast chicken.
Fried chicken.
Chips.
Christmas cake.
That was the menu for the day.
Aside from the baguette bought from a bakery, everything was homemade by Arisa.
“Shall we make a toast?”
Yuzuru took a bottle from the fridge.
It was beautifully clear, with bubbles rising inside.
“I was wondering about that… is it champagne, by any chance?”
“What would you do if I said it was?”
Yuzuru asked half-jokingly.
Arisa thought for a moment before answering.
“…That wouldn’t be allowed. We’re underage. I’d have to scold you, Yuzuru-san.”
“Strict. …Don’t worry, though—it’s just juice.”
It was apple juice made to resemble champagne.
In other words, non-alcoholic.
…In truth, Yuzuru had drunk alcohol during family gatherings around Christmas and New Year before—but this time, he held back.
Arisa would definitely scold him otherwise.
“Well, just for the atmosphere—have a sip. If you don’t like it, you can leave it. I’ve got other drinks too.”
“Alright… since it’s a special occasion.”
Yuzuru poured the drink into champagne glasses.
Then, together with Arisa, he raised his glass.
“Cheers.”
“Yes, cheers.”
They lightly clinked glasses.
And each took a sip.
It only looked like champagne—the taste was different.
Still, it was a refreshing, pleasant, delicious drink.
“How is it?”
“I quite like it.”
Smiling, Arisa took another sip.
Despite it not being alcohol, her cheeks were faintly flushed, giving her a slightly alluring air.
“Then… let’s dig in.”
“Yes, please.”
Starting with the appetiser, Yuzuru reached for the wreath salad.
It was arranged beautifully like a Christmas wreath—visually stunning.
“Yeah, this is really good. The dressing you make is better than anything store-bought.”
“Thank you. I tailor it to match the vegetables in the salad.”
“As expected of you.”
At his praise, Arisa blushed slightly and scratched her cheek.
Adorably.
Next, he tried the beef stew.
The meat melted in his mouth.
“This is really tender.”
“I simmered it for a long time. …I don’t usually make it since it takes so long, but it’s one of my specialities.”
She said that with a hint of pride.
And it showed—it was excellent.
All the other dishes were delicious too.
But more than that—
“This is fun.”
“Thank you… hearing that makes it worth the effort.”
“Well… your cooking is amazing, of course, but…”
At that, Arisa tilted her head curiously.
Her flaxen hair swayed slightly.
Her emerald eyes looked straight at him.
“What is it?”
“…I think it’s because I’m with you.”
Her cooking was delicious.
But more than that—
Eating with her made it taste better.
“Well… saying this outright is a bit embarrassing, but…”
Yuzuru scratched his cheek.
He could feel his face heating up.
“Thanks for spending today with me. I’ve really enjoyed it. …Would you spend it with me again next year?”
“Y-yes… I’d be happy to.”
Blushing, but clearly, Arisa nodded.
For some reason, Yuzuru felt a little lightheaded.
Like he could say things he normally wouldn’t dare.
“Arisa.”
“…What is it?”
“…Will you keep cooking for me? From now on, I mean.”
At his words, Arisa froze.
Then, a moment later, her face turned bright red—like a boiled octopus.
“…Arisa?”
Seeing her fall silent, Yuzuru called out.
She snapped back to herself and straightened up.
“Y-yes! I-I’d be happy to!”
And then—
She took his hand.
