After finishing the cake, Light discerned from Utaha's uneasy expression what she might be thinking. Internally, he chuckled.

"The answer is yes."

"Huh?" She looked genuinely surprised.

"About what you asked me earlier." Light clarified, "You wanted me to act as your boyfriend and go on a date with you at the mall, right? So, the answer is yes."

"I feel like I'm being tricked somehow," Utaha commented.

Her voice retained its usual serious tone. However, as she got up, she murmured a soft 'Yes!' in a more feminine intonation.

She probably thought Light wouldn't hear, which made her reaction all the more endearing to him.

After Light settled the bill, they both left the cafe.

Trying to hold her hand, Light was met with a surprised look from Utaha.

Sensing her hesitation, he argued, "Isn't the idea for us to pretend to be a couple? So, holding hands is natural, isn't it?"

"Well... I suppose so." She eventually gave in.

When Light wrapped his hand around Utaha's delicate one, she showed a visibly nervous expression.

"Just relax and act naturally," Light advised. "Make the most out of this experience."

There was something in Light's voice that was calming, almost enchanting, making Utaha relax until her breathing became more regular.

She brought her other hand to her chest, taking a deep breath in and then slowly letting it out.

"I'm more relaxed now," she confirmed. "You're right; I'll make the most of it for my light-novel!"

"That's the spirit," Light responded with a smile.

"Well," Utaha inquired, "Have you started on your novel yet?"

"Indeed, I've titled it 'One-Punch Girl'," Light revealed slowly, "It's a storyline involving heroes and villains."

"Interesting," Utaha showed curiosity, "Why that name?"

Stopping at a traffic light waiting to cross, Light turned to her.

"The main character is named Saitamika," he began explaining, "She was a girl with regular dreams and desires. She always wished to be acknowledged, but her petite stature and delicate appearance often made her a laughingstock. Fed up with being undermined, in a moment of resolve, she vowed to dedicate three entire years to become the most powerful person on the planet."

"And then what happens?" Utaha inquired, clearly engrossed.

Catching her enthusiasm, Light let out a gentle laugh.

"Saitamika's training was intense, challenging her both physically and emotionally. Every day she would surpass strong opponents," said Light. "Over time, she not only became stronger but also altered her appearance. During intense focus or battle, she'd grow to 190 cm with defined muscles and a majestic, unique presence."

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"Hmm, I see," Utaha reflected.

The traffic light turned green for pedestrians, and they moved on.

Resuming her thoughts, she turned her gaze back to Light.

"And what happens next?" she asked.

"This transformation was temporary, and as soon as danger was neutralized, Saitamika would revert back to her delicate original form," Light continued. "She's not exactly fond of this change, but in this form, she can defeat any opponent with a single punch."

"Ah, so that's where 'One-Punch Girl' comes from," Utaha commented, smiling. "I like the concept; I think it'll be a hit."

"Thank you," Light expressed his gratitude. "I plan to adapt it into a manga. I've got the script for the first and second season ready; I just need to find an illustrator."

In truth, he already had someone in mind for that task...

"I wish you luck in this endeavor," Utaha shared her sentiments. "I hope everything works out."

"I wish the same for you," Light replied, with a genuine smile.

Upon seeing his smile, Utaha looked away. It was only at that moment that she seemed to realize how close she was to him, noticing their interlaced hands. Her lips slightly parted, and she let out a soft murmur.

"We're here." Light said, after they had left the train station and arrived in front of the mall.

"Mm." Utaha nodded, still holding onto his hand.

The two entered the mall together.

"You know, Utaha," Light began, looking at the store windows as they walked, "I've always admired how you can create such deep characters and compelling plots."

Utaha smiled, a bit flattered. "Thank you, Light. But seriously, I'm really looking forward to seeing 'One-Punch Girl' come to life. I think it has great potential."

They stopped in front of a candy store. "Want a macaron?" asked Light, pointing to the window filled with colorful sweets.

"I'd love to!" Utaha replied, her eyes shining.

The two continued through the mall, enjoying snacks, laughing, and sharing stories. They were so engrossed in their conversation that they hardly noticed when a familiar figure approached.

"Utaha-senpai?" Tomoya Aki exclaimed, looking surprised.

"Tomoya-kun..." Utaha's expression showed some discomfort, but she quickly masked it.

Tomoya's gaze, now in front of them, mainly settled on the couple's interlaced hands.

"Good evening, Tomoya-kun." Utaha's tone became sweeter and more delicate: "It's unusual to see you in a mall. Ah, this is Light Yagami, my boyfriend~"

Introduced this way, Light gave a smile. Offering his hand, he said, "Hello, Tomoya-kun. May I call you that?" Seeing his reflexive agreement, Light continued with a smile, "Thank you. Are you close with my girlfriend?"

"Yes, we've known each other for a while..." Tomoya, shaking Light's hand, responded almost automatically. He looked surprised and disoriented.

Light, after letting go of Tomoya's hand, turned to Utaha and gave her a peck on the cheek, saying, "You mentioned wanting ice cream, right? Feel free to chat with your friend; I'll be right back."

Caught off guard, Utaha just nodded mechanically from start to finish.

However, she was skilled at hiding her true emotions.

Despite this, it seemed that Tomoya had noticed something.

"Utaha-senpai, how long have you two been together?" Tomoya asked. "It's Light Yagami, right? The one who always stands out in evaluations."

"That's right, it's him." Utaha regained her composure, looking at Tomoya: "Oh, what a reckless boy..." She touched the part of her face where she had received the kiss.

Possibly misinterpreting the situation, Tomoya hurriedly said, "Don't worry, Utaha-senpai, it's just dating. If you're not happy, you can break up with him!"

"It's not that simple, Tomoya-kun." She replied with a distant, enchanted look: "He's amazing! I can't believe he chose me~!"

"Ah... Well..." Tomoya was taken aback, at a loss for words.

Noticing his hesitation, a hint of disdain flashed in Utaha's eyes, but it was so brief that Tomoya probably didn't notice, especially in his current state.

"I... I need to go. I hope... I hope you have fun!" Exclaimed Tomoya, in a slightly raised voice. "See you later, Utaha-senpai!"

Watching Tomoya hurry away, Utaha's face showed indecision, which soon turned into a slight sneer, ending with a cold huff.

"Did I take too long?" Light returned holding two ice cream cones. "I got you blackberry flavor; you like it, right?"

"How did you find out I love blackberry?" Utaha asked, then suddenly hugged him.

With both hands occupied by the ice creams, Light allowed her to embrace him.

"Are you alright?" Light asked softly.

"Hmm, I just want to stay like this a little longer, is that okay?" She whispered.

"As you wish." Light replied.