The path to the truth: Male Reader X Naoto

Part 78

07/13

After School, at the Junes Food Court.

I told my team about my decision, they weren't happy about it, but, they ended up respecting it. Cal looks like he's ready to blow a gasket.

"Hey, why don't we head to Okina? Go see a movie, help get your mind off things?" He asked.

"Sorry, I promised Naoki I'd help him study for finals. I owe him after yesterday. Besides, my scooter privileges have been revoked until the break." I said.

"Well, you know where to find me if you need me." Cal said.

I met up with Naoki, he was still hanging around at the school. We hung out at the library and I helped him study, then we went to Souzai Daigaku for a bite to eat.

"Then Masaya made up an excuse for why he was late, and he said "The wind was really strong.". The teacher got really pissed and said "Shut your eyes, all of you!" And started scolded us. But no one knew why we had to close our eyes, it was really awkward. After scolding us, he starts class and he yells out "Who knows the answer? I know, Masaya, answer the question!" And then Masaya says, "I can't see the board with my eyes closed." The teacher lost it right there, and the class became a free period." He said.

I told him an embarrassing story of my own.

"Hahahahahaha! R-Really!? Oh man, that's hilarious! Haha, it feels like it's been a while since I laughed." He said.

A pair of women walked passed. They were chatting about something, didn't really catch what it was about until the end.

"That child remember? The liquor store's..."

"Konishi-san's son, right?"

"Their daughter was killed."

"Poor thing. A psychic on TV said their ancestors committed some past sin."

"I heard their house faces northeast, and that's what's bringing in all the bad luck. But that boy looked cheerful, you'd figure he'd be sad. That's pretty cold of him."

"Siblings close in age aren't that friendly to each other, my son and daughter are..."

They walked off.

Naoki was biting his lip.

"Let the gossipers gossip." I said.

"You're right, why do I care about what some random people think? I know someone understands me, and that's enough. Those, "roving eyes" are always around somewhere, I'm used to it though. It seems like they're not satisfied until I look like a victim. That's why it's been so long since I've talked to anyone about stupid things, and just laughed. It's fun." He said.

Our relationship has grown deeper.

Hanged Man Social Link: Rank 3

Meanwhile:

Cal's POV.

I have a pretty good idea as to what's going on with Y/n. I'm gonna grab a little chat with Naoto, if I can find her. I'll admit I'm too chicken shit to try to go right up to the Shirogane Estate. Her grandpa gives off some serious old samurai warlord vibes. Id rather avoid confronting her while he's within earshot.