Before me, a pretty odd scene was unfolding. Aoi-sensei was crouched on the floor, her face burdened with guilt as she looked downwards. On the bed, Fujiwara and Saemi were observing the situation, each with a different expression. Fujiwara had a amused smile, while Saemi seemed like a mix of confusion and embarrassment.

I was by their side, witnessing the scene as an impartial observer. Although I had tried to contribute earlier, my opinions were promptly dismissed by the girls, who stated that it was a dialogue between them. Despite not exactly understanding what they were referring to, I decided to respect the decision and leave the matter under their jurisdiction.

"I have no intention of punishing you, Aoi-sensei. I recognize that you are the person closest to Makoto since before we came to this place. However... I always had something in mind to ask you, Aoi-sensei. And given the circumstances, this seems like a good time"

As soon as Fujiwara pronounced Aoi-sensei's name, a tense atmosphere settled in, but it was quickly dispelled by Fujiwara's following words. Indeed, this scene itself was already quite unusual, a teacher apologizing to a student. I wasn't prepared at all to witness something like this. As I pondered over this situation, Fujiwara continued.

"Aoi-sensei... you're in love with Makoto, aren't you?"

Upon hearing Fujiwara's words, an expression of disbelief took over my face. What the heck was this girl implying? It was evident that such a thing was impossible, or at least that's what I thought. Glancing at Aoi-sensei, her expression seemed to contradict my assumptions.

"W-Why do you think that?"

Aoi-sensei inquired, surprising not only me but also Saemi. Faced with Aoi-sensei's words, Fujiwara couldn't contain a playful laugh and added.

"Despite my laid-back and generally disinterested appearance, I'm actually quite observant. I had noticed this for a while. While people around us may not have noticed, your feelings for Makoto could be mistaken for maternal love, but I can clearly distinguish between maternal love and romantic love. And yours definitely falls into the romantic category"

Upon hearing Fujiwara's words, Aoi-sensei seemed even more embarrassed, almost confirming the accuracy of what Fujiwara had said.

"Aoi-sensei... are Fujiwara's words true?"

I asked, locking eyes with Aoi-sensei. She turned to me upon hearing my words, our gazes met, and she opened and closed her mouth. It seemed like she was trying to find the right words but struggling to do so. I began to consider the possibility of her trying to give some explanation to escape this situation, but her next words practically dissipated that idea.

Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

"I'm sorry"

Aoi-sensei said, with her words flowing soon after.

"I understand that this might be unsettling for you, but I swear I had no ulterior motives in getting close to you. Honestly, I wished to be a support for someone as hardworking as you. However, as time went by, a dark feeling grew within me. Before I realized it, I was in love with you. That's why I kept my feelings hidden, not wanting to create problems for you. I'm so sorry, truly"

Aoi-sensei continued, tears sliding from her eyes.

"Aoi-sensei"

Saemi murmured beside me, with an air of sadness and melancholy. I felt the desire to help in some way, but uncertainty surrounded me. While pondering what to do, my gaze met with Fujiwara's, who had a suggestive smile on her face. I sighed and stood up from the bed, approaching Aoi-sensei as I crouched to her level.

"Aoi-sensei"

When I called her, while using my finger to wipe away her tears, Aoi-sensei lifted her face to meet my gaze.

"I would never find you unpleasant for this. In fact, I feel honored to know that someone as amazing as you harbors feelings for someone like me. To be honest, I've also always had an affection for you... no, actually, you've always been and continue to be my first love"

Upon hearing my words, Aoi-sensei's eyes opened even wider in disbelief. Then, tears filled her eyes once again, but for a completely different reason than before. As she hugged me, Aoi-sensei let out all the tears she had been holding back, the result of considering giving up on her feelings. While this moving scene unfolded, my gaze turned to Fujiwara and Saemi, who were watching us with smiles on their lips. When Aoi-sensei finally stopped crying, I continued.

"Aoi-sensei, age or your previous profession really don't matter to me. To begin with, we are no longer on Earth and therefore there's no reason to abide by the rules of our old world. So, I would like to know, would you accept becoming my partner?"

I ask, looking at Aoi-sensei with a sweet and warm smile on my face. Upon hearing my words, Aoi-sensei showed surprise for a moment before breaking into a wide smile.

"It would be my pleasure"

Aoi-sensei replied with an ear-to-ear grin on her face. After her words, she directed her gaze towards Saemi and Fujiwara, who were observing us in silence.

"But... is it really okay?"

Aoi-sensei asked, seemingly seeking permission from Fujiwara and Saemi. The first to respond was Fujiwara, who let out a playful laugh and commented.

"Actually, I don't mind. As Makoto mentioned, we are no longer on Earth, and besides, it would be fun to have more people around"

Fujiwara stated, his smile carrying a suggestive tone.

"I don't see any issue either. Plus, I don't believe I have the right to interfere in this decision"

Saemi added, a understanding smile on her face.

Hearing their responses, a feeling of gratitude naturally overflowed within me.

"Thank you very much, girls"

I shared with a smile, looking at both of them with sincere gratitude. Turning then to Aoi-sensei, I gradually leaned closer to her lips. As my approach became noticeable, Aoi-sensei seemed to grow even more embarrassed, her eyes darting to the sides, showing uncertainty. However, after a moment of deliberation, Aoi-sensei gently closed her eyes, an adorable gesture. Faced with this, a smile formed on my lips. I leaned in, and with a small shared laugh, I pressed my lips softly against hers, initiating a serene and passionate kiss.