Chapter 2

....The party was so much fun. My cheeks feel so hot.

I see. Glad you enjoyed it, To–

Keep growing strong and healthy, Toi~!

Hehehe, Netaro-san! That tickles~

Don’t go around casually petting Toi like that!

(Damn it. If he’s here, I can’t have a proper chat with Toi…)

Eveninggg–! We’re here to deliver ‘random presents’ to the birthday stars!

I’m in charge of Ryui’s, and Akuta’s got Toi.

Thennn, Toi-san, this way~ A wonderful, unbeatable, perfect gift is waiting for you!

Yayyy! Then I’ll go with him, Ani-sama!

Got it. Be careful.

Then I’ll just watch from the corner of the room while Ryui gets his present!

Annoying.

Happy birthday, Ryui. You work so hard, so here’s a ‘Relaxation Set’.

Cushions, a hot eye mask, bath salts… I packed items that’ll help you unwind whenever you’re tired or need to refresh yourself.

And from now on, don’t hesitate if there’s ever anything you need. Spoil yourself as much as you like. As your older brother, I’ll handle it.

No, I never agreed to be your little brother.

Don’t hold back. Is there anything else you want?

I heard from Chief that you’ve been running around all day for Toi. It’s your birthday too, so make sure you let yourself be spoiled.

Each and every one of you guys… It’s not like I want to be spoiled or anything—

…...Oi, lend me your ear.

I’ll listen as much as you want. What is it?

…Can you take care of Yowa for me? Just tonight… I want to spend time alone with Toi.

Leave it to me. I’ve got a good idea.

Netaro. Do you want to make cotton candy in the living room? Liguang managed to get a small machine secondhand for us.

Cotton candy!?! Niiiice, Lulee–!

Tonight’s cotton candy night fever! Eat as muuuch as you want–! I won’t let you sleep until you’re floating in the air~♪

Now it’ll be the two of you alone. Take your time.

…I owe you one.

I’m back, Ani-sama.

Eh, where’s Netaro-san?

Welcome back. About that, he said he’s going over to Kamina’s place.

It’s been hectic since morning, and you must be tired too. Let’s get to bed soon.

Y-Yeah… Um…

Toi?

(Huh? He has his arms wide open…?)

“Come here. Sleep in my arms tonight.”

(Is he quoting some line or something? Toi trying to act cool and even standing on his toes… It’s the best.)

(Saying it at a time like this… He’s trying to make me happy, isn’t he. He’s so cute…)

I get to have you all to myself tonight. Looks like I’m going to have sweet dreams.

Huh!?

I was trying to make you flustered… But I can’t beat you, Ani-sama…

What are you talking about? I've completely surrendered to your cuteness every day.

Then, I’ll sleep with you tonight. That okay with you?

Mhm…!

…I’m glad we could celebrate our birthday together again this year.

Yeah. A lot has happened up until today, but…

The fun things.

And the tough things.

From now on, let’s keep sharing them together.

(There’s a ton of unfinished business I need to deal with, but as long as I’m alive, I’ll make sure Toi’s wishes come true...)

Mm…

What’s wrong? Getting sleepy?

Yeah... But, I don’t want to sleep just yet. Because that means today will end…

What are you saying? There’s always tomorrow.

I’ll always be by your side. Tomorrow, the day after tomorrow… As long as you want, I’ll be here. So don’t fight it and go to sleep.

…Ani-sama…..

(You’re the kinder one, right?)

(Toi. My other half. The reason I exist in this world. I won’t let anyone hurt you…)

(Everything I am is for you.)

I love you, Ani-sama…

Me too.

Good night, Toi.