Where does happiness reside?
Where do we find true joy?
What drives us?
What makes us smile?
If we were speaking philosophically, many ideas would come to mind. But isn't it simple?
Friends, love, victories, and growth.
To be happy is to live according to your desires. To pursue a life that feels like yours.
For Akira, today is yet another day where he finds himself reflecting on this joy.
But today isn't just any day—it's far from ordinary.
Believe it or not, Akira is not going out with just one girl… but two.Though it's not what most would call a "dream date," it's more than enough for him.
["Women are like rings. One may be enough. But the more you wear, the higher your self-worth."]
"That was a bit off, system. But I get your point."
Still, Akira wasn't focused on collecting "rings."He just wanted to live a life without regret.
Today was his starting line. A new chapter. One where Akira would begin to live life on his own terms.
As this inner monologue played out, Akira arrived at the entrance of the shopping mall—exactly where he had arranged to meet Mahiru and Bocchi.
Even though he and Mahiru are neighbors, she insisted they come separately... for reasons.
The bright side?Akira could now pretend to be the anime protagonist—arriving early and leaning coolly against a pillar, waiting.
"And when they arrive and ask, 'Did you wait long, Kurosawa-kun?' I'll smile and say, 'No worries. I just got here.'"
Unfortunately, life rarely follows the anime script.
"Hey, Kurosawa-kun! You're early. What are you mumbling about?"
Damn it. She skipped the line!
Snapping out of fantasy, Akira returned to reality—and to the sight of two girls in front of him: Mahiru, radiant as always, and Bocchi, who was partially hiding behind her like a shadow.
"It's good to see you both. I didn't expect you to arrive together."
Turning to Bocchi, Akira smiled with a bit of teasing.
"From here on out, Gotou-san is our guide. We're counting on you!"
Mahiru followed up, playing along.
"Yes, we're relying on you!"
Overwhelmed but trying not to faint on the spot, Bocchi nodded with trembling courage.
"L-leave it to me…"
She's adorable when she's flustered… but she must suffer a lot inside. I wonder… what can I do to make things easier for her?
[How about you take care of her for the rest of your life and give her lots of sisters? Sounds like a noble mission.]
Akira smirked. You're not wrong.
Meanwhile, Bocchi—completely unaware that her life had just been planned out—gathered her strength and gestured forward.
"T-this way, guys."
The group entered the mall, and almost immediately, a large instrument store stood out—guitars, pianos, violins, strange instruments you've never heard of. A haven for musicians and dreamers alike.
"Over here, Kurosawa-kun. These are the guitars. Pick one you like."
She spoke with a quiet sincerity.Honestly, it sounded more like a store employee's job—but Bocchi's dedication made it adorable.
"These really are beautiful…" Akira mused, looking at the variety of instruments. Each guitar seemed to call out with its own unique voice.
Though his musical talent was blossoming, Akira still felt unsure.
"Gotou-san, which one do you think I should choose?"
Just as Bocchi opened her mouth to answer—
A fourth voice entered the conversation, catching everyone by surprise.
"I'd choose that one."
The voice was calm, composed, and carried an air of mystery. It didn't belong to any of them.
And just like that, the peaceful moment took a curious turn.