When the Introverted Me Got Surrounded by S-Tier Beauties After a Seat Change, a Secret Relationship Began V1 Chapter 6

Chapter 6: The Cultural Festival Is a Series of Happenings?

The early summer cultural festival—one of the three major events at Natsuhama Central High School.

And today was the day.

While the extroverts were probably buzzing with festival excitement from the moment they woke up, my introverted stomach was in knots. I couldn't even get breakfast down.

"…S-sorry, sis. Can you eat the rest?"

"Huh, really? Lucky me~"

I handed my breakfast over to my sister, returned to my room, and changed into my uniform.

So it's finally here… the cultural festival.

I’d practiced the role of Snow White for two weeks straight, so I've gotten the hang of it. I've memorized my lines, so there's no problem there, but…

"I-I'm just… so nervous."

Even I couldn't hide the sheer terror on my face.

For an introvert like me, who has spent his entire life avoiding nerve-wracking situations, performing in front of people is a hell of a lot of pressure.

Looking back, I wonder if getting ostracized by the class for refusing to play Snow White would've been better than cross-dressing as her in front of everyone.

"Tch, no point regretting it now. I just have to perform twice and get it over with."

Besides, the audience isn't here for some cross-dressing guy like me. They're here for the busty Miyama and the others.

I'll just be the butt of the joke and create a dark chapter in my history. No need to be nervous.

"Haah… I'm heading out."

After getting ready, I grabbed my bag and left the house.

"Hm? Wait…"

When I stepped out the front door, I saw Kuroki and Yuria standing by my gate, chatting while they waited for me.

Whoa now. The play hasn't even started and I'm already getting picked up by the two princes?

"…G-good morning, you two."

"Good morning, Ryouta-kun!"

"Morning, Ryouta. You're a bit late."

Kuroki was unusually cheerful, while Yuria was as aloof as ever.

"I-it took me a while to get ready."

"Get ready? It's the cultural festival, you don't have any textbooks to pack."

"Now, now, Yuria. Ryouta-kun's a boy, so I'm sure he has his own things to take care of, right?" Kuroki followed up with a beaming smile.

From the way she said it, she seems to think I was doing something shady this morning… but whatever. I'll just ignore it.

"Just you two? Where's Miyama?"

"Airi overslept. She'll probably be here later."

Oversleeping on the day of the cultural festival… that's so like Miyama.

"Hey, Ryouta-kun? There's something a little different about me today—can you tell what it is?"

"S-something different…?"

As I stared at Kuroki, she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and smiled alluringly. Her beautiful features were the same as always, and her straight black hair hadn't changed, but…

"Look, right here. It's lipstick."

"Lipstick?"

Kuroki pointed at her lips.

Ah, now that she mentions it… they are a little red.

"I'm wearing my favorite lipstick today because I have a kiss scene with you, Ryouta-kun."

""Huh!?""

Yuria and I cried out in surprise at the same time.

"W-wait, what are you saying—"

"Wait, Rui! Don't tell me you're actually planning to kiss Ryouta!?"

"Fufu… just kidding, just kidding. The kiss scene is still gonna be faked, just like in rehearsal. I just wore my favorite lipstick for a change of pace. Geez, Yuria, you're getting way too worked up."

"R-right, yeah."

Kuroki teased Yuria with a half-smile.

"Jeez. Rui, you sometimes say things that make it hard to tell if you're serious or joking, so I totally fell for it. And Ryouta, didn't you look just a tiny bit happy there?"

"I-I did not!"

"Fufu… maybe Ryouta-kun wanted me to steal his first kiss?"

"As if! More importantly, let's get to school already."

"Okaaay!"

At my urging, we finally started walking toward school.

Still… a first kiss, huh.

If you count indirect kisses, Miyama was my first, but…

There's no way I could say something like that…

"But I'm actually looking forward to the play. Your Snow White during rehearsal was pretty cute, Ryouta."

"I know, right!? Ryouta-kun, let's take a picture together once you're in costume, okay?"

"Not happening."

Even as we walked to school like this, the performance was steadily approaching.

☆☆

When we arrived at school, a gorgeous arch with "Cultural Festival" written on it stood at the gate. In the school building, students bustled about, busy with preparations.

It's really happening… I can feel it.

My first-year class ran a chocolate banana stand, but of course, being the introvert I am, I barely participated.

An introvert's cultural festival is usually spent pretending to watch the play in the gym while dozing off, or hiding out in an air-conditioned empty classroom to read a book.

For me, who actually spent last year that way, I never imagined I'd be entrusted with such a major role this year.

And on top of that… I'm with a bunch of beautiful girls I thought I'd never have anything to do with…

"Everyone looks so busy. It really feels like a cultural festival, doesn't it?"

"Y-yeah."

"What did you do for the cultural festival in your first year, Ryouta-kun? Did you maybe go around with Tanaka-san?"

"Why are you bringing Tanaka up now?"

"Come on, just tell me."

Haah… since Kuroki was being persistent, I decided to answer honestly.

"Nothing happened with Tanaka. My class was selling chocolate bananas, but I was such a loner I wasn't even put on the shift schedule. I just read light novels in an empty classroom."

"What the heck. That's the most introverted cultural festival experience ever."

I'm a true introvert, you know.

"Fufu. That's so like you, Ryouta-kun."

"Kuroki, you're making fun of me, aren't you?"

"I'm not! Oh, but as thanks for telling me about your dark past, let me share a little story with you."

"A little story?"

"Actually, at last year's cultural festival, Yuria wore a maid outfit, but her thighs were too big and her panties—"

"Hold it, Rui! You!"

Yuria covered Kuroki's mouth with tremendous force.

Wait, hold on! What about Yuria's panties!?

Did they show or not!?

Tell me already! Kuroki!

☆☆

At this school's cultural festival, each class's activities are broadly divided into three types: plays, exhibits, and food stalls.

Exhibits and stalls are generally held in your own classroom, while plays are performed in the gym.

Including our class, five classes are doing plays this year. Those five classes, plus the drama club, make for six groups total, each performing once in the morning and once in the afternoon.

By the way, the time limit is 30 minutes. It's strange how it feels surprisingly long when you're the one performing.

"I wonder if our class has started preparing too?"

"Probably. Our play is second in the lineup. Come on, let's hurry."

Urged on by Yuria, we rushed to the classroom, where preparations for the play were already underway.

The culture club members in charge of costumes were doing a final check, the athletics club members in charge of props were carrying the set to the gym, and committee member Hino and the otaku girls group in charge of the script and direction were discussing the lighting.

Seeing my usually goofing-off classmates all united and working seriously like this puts a lot of pressure on me as the lead.

This is bad… I'm getting nervous all over again…

"Yahhooo, you three!"

The one who suddenly called out from behind was Miyama.

"Hey, Airi, you're late. Today's the actual performance, you know?"

"Sorry, sorry."

Miyama apologized while smoothing down her slightly messy bedhead.

Oversleeping on the day of the cultural festival… that's so her.

"More importantly, Ryouta, Ryouta! The costume people I passed by earlier said they want the two of us—dwarf Airi and Snow White Ryouta—to walk around the hallways to drum up business!"

"D-drum up business? Then have you three—Miyama, Kuroki, and Ichinose—do it."

"Umm, well, apparently the prince costumes are expensive rentals, so they don't want to use them for anything but the stage."

"Huh? So the Snow White and dwarf costumes are fine then?"

"Yup! Airi and Ryouta's costumes are cheap cosplay outfits from Don Quijote!"

Yes, this is the reality of our class.

Since Kuroki and Yuria have serious fans of both genders, almost the entire cultural festival budget was spent on their costumes.

In contrast, Snow White's costume is from Don Quijote…

"Now then, Ryouta and Airi, let's go get changed!"

Led by Miyama, we went to the costume staff, who had already moved to the gym. We were immediately told to change into our costumes in the restroom.

Cross-dressing in the boys' restroom at the gym—the very description sounds sketchy as hell, yet I felt a pinch of excitement as I finished changing.

Well, Yuria already took care of my leg hair with depilatory cream, so that's fine, but… haah.

I looked at my cross-dressed self in the mirror.

The cheap Snow White costume pieced together from Don Quijote.

The dress was an A-line with a crew-neck blue top and a yellow skirt—a very Snow White-like outfit. I was also told to put on a black wig and a red headband.

Being a shut-in otaku who avoids the sun, I'm pale year-round, and since I'm naturally on the slender side, I guess I could pass for a girl, but…

"…This is seriously pushing it."

"Heeey, Ryouta! I got the sign, so let's go already!"

Miyama's voice echoed through the boys' restroom.

If anyone had been in a stall, they would've gotten a jolt from her voice alone.

When I came out of the restroom, Miyama was standing there in her dwarf cosplay.

She wore a red hood and had a fluffy white beard attached around her mouth.

Combined with her mascot-like character, she's honestly cute… but.

When I lowered my gaze, it became far more than just "cute."

The top button of her bright red jacket couldn't be fastened because of her massive boobs, and the shorts she was wearing were stretched tight over her thick, meaty thighs.

As expected of those big tits and thighs…

T-this is… so voluminous it can't even be called a dwarf. It's so erotic it'd need an R-17 rating or people would riot.

"When we bought this costume, we got the biggest size, but the chest area is still tight… it's because my boobs are too big. Geez, they're always causing trouble."

Miyama grumbled at her own chest.

No—Miyama's huge tits aren't the problem.

Miyama's huge tits give everyone energy (if you know what I mean). They're practically a national treasure.

All citizens of Japan need to worship and praise these massive tits.

"Miyama… stay just like that. No, get even bigger."

"Huh? What are you talking about?"

"Ah, wait, you two! You forgot something!"

A girl from the props team jogged over and handed us two hand-sized cardboard signs.

"Okay then, hold these while you walk around campus and promote the play for us, thanks~"

The cardboard signs had '2nd Year Class B's Play 【Gender-Swapped Snow White】 at 10 AM in the gym!' written messily on them.

"Alright! Let's bring in lots of customers with our promotion!"

"Y-yeah…"

Well, once they find out someone this sexy is in the play, perverts will show up in droves…

☆☆

After making our rounds promoting the play throughout campus, Miyama and I returned to the gym.

Inside, students were already busy with their respective tasks.

"We promoted a lot, but I wonder if everyone will come?" Miyama said with a sigh, stopping at the gym entrance.

No matter how you look at it, the guys will definitely come… to see Miyama's huge tits.

Plus, Yuria's fans will come in the morning and Kuroki's in the afternoon, so it'll definitely be a huge success.

And I'll just be the laughingstock in my creepy cross-dress… seriously, what even is this role?

"Ryouta, are you nervous?"

"N-nervous?"

"Yeah. I mean, we're about to go on stage and perform, you know?"

"Y-yeah… I'm a little nervous, but since no one in the audience will be watching me anyway… not that much. Ahaha."

I said with a self-deprecating laugh.

But Miyama didn't laugh with me. Instead, she looked at me with an unusually serious expression.

"You know, Airi is… I'm nervous too…"

"Huh? You, Miyama?"

"Look…"

Miyama gently took my right hand and placed it on her chest… wha—!?

My right hand was placed near her left collarbone, the ball of my thumb and my pinky brushing against her supple, massive breasts.

So… soft!!

I-if I slide my hand just a bit lower, I'll end up groping these huge tits on impulse!

"My heart… it's pounding, isn't it?"

I-it is, but… my lower half is the one that's really pounding.

Wait, that's not it! If I keep touching her any longer, someone's going to get the wrong idea!

Finally sensing the danger, I quickly pulled my hand away.

"Normally, Airi doesn't… get nervous."

"I-is that so?"

"But, you know, when I thought about how I don't want to mess up in front of you, Ryouta… I started getting nervous for some reason."

"M-me?"

I was surprised that my name suddenly came up.

"Why me? I won't get mad or tease you if you mess up, Miyama."

"I know that, but…"

Miyama trailed off, as if something was caught in her throat.

"…Um, Airi, when I went to your house the other day, I noticed something—"

"Heeey! You two over there! It's almost time to gather!"

While we were talking at the gym entrance, Hino, in his queen costume, called out to us from the stage.

"G-got it! Coming! …So what about my house?"

"Ah! N-no! Never mind, forget it!"

"Huh? But—"

"You know, Airi! When I went to your house, Ryouta, I just felt like I couldn't lose to you even more! That's all!"

After blurting that out, Miyama bounced toward the stage, her dwarf costume jiggling and swaying.

I'm not quite sure what she meant, but… does that mean she sees me as a rival?

"Ryouta!"

"Hm?"

As I was about to follow Miyama, a voice called me from behind. I turned around…

"…! Y-Yuria!"

There stood Yuria in her prince costume—a white jacket with red pants and black boots.

She had ditched her usual gyaru makeup for a more handsome, boyish look.

The pure white jacket with gold embroidery had a gold-and-red striped standing collar and gold shoulder decorations. The red sash draped diagonally from her shoulder was very princely.

Perhaps to look more masculine, Yuria had tied her long hair into a single bundle and let it flow over her right shoulder. She wore tight red skinny pants that were meant to make her large thighs look slimmer.

Looking at her from head to toe, while her thighs were a bit meaty, Yuria was several hundred times more handsome than I am…

"So… how do I look? Cool?"

"A hundred times cooler than I usually look. It's like we're on completely different levels as living beings. I've lost in every way."

"T-that much? Really? That's a relief."

Yuria grinned happily.

"Also! Ryouta, um, you're cute too, you know? Like the red ribbon and stuff."

"Huh?"

I don't need that kind of awkward, forced compliment exchange…

"S-Snow White… would you accompany me to the stage?"

"A-ah, yeah."

Urged on by Yuria, we walked side by side toward the stage.

Finally… it's happening.

Hino, who was on stage, walked toward us.

"Izumiya, you…"

"What? If you think I'm creepy, just say it—"

"How should I put it… you're kinda cute?"

Hino said bashfully, his eyes raking over my cross-dressed figure.

Somehow… I had a bad feeling about this.

☆☆

After that, our class did a final stage check, then sat in the folding chairs lined up along the gym wall to wait for the previous class's play to end.

I sat in a folding chair, conscious of the unfamiliar dress skirt, and watched the stage.

The gym lights dimmed.

Then—the stage lights and the spotlights from the gym's second floor illuminated the performers.

The first performance, by 1st Year Class A, began. The play was Rashomon.

Finally… it's begun.

I felt like I was on pins and needles, waiting for our turn.

Watching a play from the sidelines like this only made me more nervous.

I had thought my nerves had calmed down a bit, but…

Thirty minutes passed in the blink of an eye when watching someone else's play.

As the previous play entered its final act, a committee member ushered our class backstage.

Yuria in her prince role and Miyama in her dwarf role both looked unusually composed, but I had no such luxury and kept reviewing my lines over and over.

"Haah… my confidence is draining away."

I bet Shinji felt this way before getting in the Eva.

Just as Shinji was forced into an Eva he didn't want to pilot and had to wear a tight plugsuit, I was forced into a lead role I didn't want and made to wear clothes I didn't want to wear.

At this point, I'm practically Shinji.

"Fufu. Ryouta-kun, you're so nervous."

Before I knew it, Kuroki was beside me, peering at my face.

Kuroki Rui… the root of all evil.

She looks like a beauty on the level of Ayanami Rei, but on the inside, she's all Gendo.

"What's wrong?"

"N-nothing. More importantly… if I mess up in the play later, don't you dare make fun of me."

"Do I look like the kind of person who would make fun of someone for messing up?"

"Because… the real you is calculating and has a bad personality."

"Hey now, I don't have a bad personality. I'm just a perfectionist."

I know she's a perfectionist, but that perfectionism is what makes her personality turn nasty sometimes.

"I think the play will be over in a flash once it starts, but are you still nervous?"

"Of course I am. What do you take me for?"

I'm a loner, an introverted otaku, and a guy who's guaranteed to be a virgin for life!

"Ehh? I thought the Ryouta-kun I know was a bit more courageous than that."

"Wh-what? M-me?"

"I mean, you're a guy who can talk normally with me, Yuria, and Airi."

Now that she mentions it… maybe I am a bit brave.

But that's largely because I know their secrets…

 Not that I could ever say that.

"Not feeling confident? Well then, if the first performance is a success… how about I give you a real kiss for the second one in the afternoon?"

"Wha…?"

K-Kuroki… a real kiss?

"St-stupid! Don't tease a virgin, introverted otaku like me, especially at a time like this—"

"Okay, 2nd Year Class B, please get ready."

A girl from the cultural festival committee called out to us in a low voice.

"I-it's already time. Hey, Kuroki."

"Fufu, I was just kidding. I thought it might distract you a little."

"Wh-what was that for…"

In the end, Kuroki was teasing me right up until the play started.

But for a little bit… just a tiny little bit, it's true that her teasing helped me relax.

"…Ah, um. Thanks, Kuroki."

"You're welcome."

When I thanked her honestly, she accepted it just as honestly, much to my surprise.

Jeez, she really knows how to throw me off…

As the previous play ended and the stage was being cleared, I went up.

Once I was on stage, the lights above and the spotlights from the second floor brightened, and I could hear the female narrator's voice.

'Once upon a time—in a certain kingdom's castle, there lived a beautiful princess with skin so fair she was called Snow White—'

The three spotlights on the second floor all focused on me, Snow White.

It's not so much bright as it is hot.

The audience members, though confused by my cross-dressing, stared intently at me on stage.

Their gazes were a mixture of confusion and anticipation.

Ah, whatever, stare all you want… I've steeled myself for this social suicide.

My acting is terrible, my delivery is still monotone, and my voice isn't loud.

But I'm… going to see this through.

I'll get this over with and get my peaceful life back!

As the chatter from the audience died down, I began to speak my lines.

"L-living in a castle is so boring… I wish I could meet my Prince Charming someday!"

Having to say a line like this in front of people is some next-level humiliation.

But once the play started, just as Kuroki had said, I felt surprisingly calm.

The anxiety and impatience I felt before going on stage vanished, and the lines came out of my mouth without a hitch.

I guess you don't feel nervous once you're in the thick of it…

After the opening scene where Snow White is living peacefully, I exited to the side of the stage for the scene change.

Next up is the classic scene where Snow White's stepmother, the Queen, asks the mirror, "Who is the fairest of them all?"

The Queen is played by Hino, and since Snow White isn't in this scene, I can take a breather.

Our class's version of Snow White is roughly divided into six scenes.

The beginning, with Snow White living peacefully and the Queen asking the mirror.

The middle, where the huntsman, ordered by the Queen to assassinate Snow White, lets her escape into the forest, and Snow White finds the dwarves' house and starts living with them.

The climax, where the Queen comes to the dwarves' house and gives Snow White the poison apple, and the play ends with the prince's kiss.

So, there are four major scenes left.

Escape into the forest, meet the dwarves, eat the apple and die, then I can just sleep. It's practically a freeloader's life.

All I have to do is wait for the prince's kiss.

Once the Queen's scene was over, it was time for the forest scene.

'The huntsman, ordered to kill by the queen, brought Snow White to the forest'

As the narrator introduced the scene, we moved into the part where the huntsman lets me go.

I was led onto the stage's forest set by the athletic girl playing the huntsman.

"Oh, poor, pitiful Snow White… I will tell the Queen that you are dead, so please, escape into the forest."

"Y-yes…"

After this scene where the huntsman lets me go, it's time for her to appear…

Yeah, there was one person who, despite her best efforts during practice, was about as bad at acting as I was.

Seven dwarves (all girls) appeared from the side of the stage.

And in the center, chest puffed out, was the bright red dwarf, Miyama Airi.

She wore a bright red dwarf hood and a white beard around her mouth.

Just like in rehearsal, the top button of her red jacket was undone, revealing a glimpse of her massive cleavage.

Even though the roles are gender-swapped, we've managed to keep it wholesome so far…

It's like a gravure idol suddenly appearing on a children's educational show. It's completely out of place.

"Oh my, oh my? That beautiful dress and elegance? face, could it be Ryou… I mean, Snow White!? What a fortunate? coincidence! Since you're here, please, stay at Airi's… I mean, our dwarf house and rest for a while!"

She remembered her lines, but she tilted her head at every difficult phrase and even almost got my name wrong. The busty dwarf, Miyama Airi.

You're still messing up during the actual performance!

The play then moved to the scene where Snow White lives in the dwarves' house. Snow White sits in a chair while the seven dwarves pamper her.

"Snow White, dinner is ready. Here, say 'ahhh'."

"Snow White? I'll give you a shoulder massage."

"Snow White, let me clean your ears."

In the original story, Snow White was the one doing the housework, but for some reason, the dwarf house has turned into a harem with seven girls.

I've had a weird feeling about this part of the script for a while now… why is it a harem?

'Snow White was enjoying a carefree life at the dwarves' house. But then, one day'

Finally, we got to the scene where Snow White eats the apple. The Queen, played by Hino, enters the dwarf house wearing a black hood and hands Snow White the poison apple.

Alright, time to eat this apple and go to sleep.

Just then—I caught sight of Yuria waiting in the wings.

Her gaze was different from her usual cold stare; it was sharp and fixed on me.

Her eyes, which had previously said "I'm going to do this for real," held something different from usual.

"Here, eat up."

I, as Snow White, took the poison apple from the Queen, who was disguised as an old woman in a black robe.

"This is a token of my gratitude for helping me. Now, young lady, please try this apple."

This is the climax.

After I eat this, I just have to sleep in bed.

"…!"

I pretended to eat the apple, then immediately clutched my throat, staggered, and fell onto the bed.

The bed was made of a gym mat and cardboard, so lying here, I can smell how incredibly sweaty it is… no, it just stinks. My nose is going to fall off.

"Heheheh! Now Snow White is dead! The most beautiful in the world is meeeeee! Uryyyy!!"

Hino's hammy performance as the Queen was a hit, and she exited the stage.

I lay on the bed with my eyes closed, waiting for the prince's kiss in the darkness. Hurry up, Yuria.

"—I let my horse wander and ended up in this forest, but to think there'd be a house here."

The moment I wished for Yuria to hurry, the sound of boots echoed on the stage.

A series of high-pitched cheers erupted from the audience.

Does Yuria have this many female fans…?

Normally, Yuria is a big-thighed gyaru, but despite her prickly personality, she's surprisingly caring, like an older sister.

Maybe that's what appeals to a lot of the girls.

"A house with strangely small furniture, but… oh? What's this, a beautiful woman…"

Yuria's voice and footsteps grew closer, and she peered down at my face.

"…Not breathing? Quick, I must perform artificial respiration!"

Because my vision was dark, Yuria's perfume seemed stronger, and I could tell she was right in front of me.

I'll just open my eyes a little… huh?

Yuria's face was right there.

Maybe because of the hot lights, her forehead was beaded with sweat, and she was looking at me with teary, glistening eyes.

"Ryouta… sorry, close your eyes."

Sensing that I had opened my eyes slightly, Yuria whispered that and slowly brought her face closer.

Cheers from Yuria's fans erupted from the audience.

From the audience's perspective, it's impossible to tell if she's actually kissing me or not, hidden from their view. It's Schrödinger's kiss.

"…!"

Yuria's breath tickled the tip of my nose.

Her face is… really close.

During practice, she just pretended to kiss me and quickly moved on to the next line…

"…You know,"

"?"

"I thought I had a decent amount of courage. But when I see your face, Ryouta… I can't do something so unfair."

U-unfair? Huh? What is?

Unable to speak with my eyes closed, I could only listen to Yuria's words.

I don't really get what she's saying. Was she just talking to herself?

Then suddenly—I felt a soft sensation on my cheek.

It was slightly damp, and soft… this, could it be!

"…!!"

The shock was so great that I shot up from the bed.

Th-that feeling on my cheek just now…

There's no doubt… it was a kiss, right?

"Are you awake, Princess?"

Yuria smiled innocently, as if nothing had happened.

Having been kissed on the cheek by Yuria, I was too shocked to move.

Yuria's lips were… o-o-on my cheek!?

When her lips touched me, I felt her body heat at zero distance, her ticklish breath, and her smooth skin.

Even though it was just my cheek, for me, it was as stimulating as a kiss on the lips. In the middle of the play, all I could think about was Yuria's lips.

Yuria's lips were so damn soft!

For a virgin introvert, even a cheek kiss is too much stimulation. All the blood in my body rushed to my lower half, but thankfully, the skirt hid my bulge from everyone.

If I had been the prince, my crotch would have been bulging in those tight skinny pants, and I would have been socially dead… close call.

"How are you feeling?"

"Eh, ah,"

Crap, crap, it's my line.

"P-Prince! Thank you. Your kiss has awakened me."

After that, I continued acting in a daze from the kiss.

I couldn't think about anything but Yuria's lips, let alone being nervous.

"I-I thank this fateful encounter… and I swear to love you for the rest of my life."

With that final line, the morning performance came to a close.

☆☆

The morning play was over, and we had free time until the afternoon performance.

The cast members changed back into their uniforms and headed off to enjoy the festival.

Naturally, I changed back into my uniform in the restroom as well.

Haah… I don't want to embarrass myself any further, but I just have to get through one more performance.

When I came out of the gym restroom, Kuroki and Miyama were waiting for me.

"Welcome back, Ryouta-kun. You did great."

"Ryouta, you were amazing!"

"Ah… thanks."

Maybe because it was nothing but a dark mark on my history, I couldn't bring myself to be happy about it…

"Oh, by the way, Ryouta-kun, Tanaka-san said she really wants you to come to the maid café later."

"I don't really care about that. Where's Yuria?"

"Yuria's having a photo session with her fans behind the gym. Airi wants to take a picture with her too, but there are too many fans."

"I see."

Come to think of it, after the play, she was whisked away by a group of girls.

So Yuria isn't back yet…

"Ryouta, Ryouta! Yuria's going to be a while, so let's go to Kanade-chan's maid café first!"

"Uh… I need to return the costume first, so you guys go ahead. I'll be right there."

"Got it! Let's go, Rui-chan."

"Okay. Make sure you come too, Ryouta-kun."

Kuroki and Miyama headed into the school building together.

I returned the costume to its designated spot, then waited by the gym for Yuria.

After a while, a group of girls who seemed to be Yuria's fans came from behind the gym and passed by me.

"Hey, isn't that the guy who played Snow White?"

"You're right! Hey, let's get a picture!"

The group of girls pointed at me and started to approach.

Ugh, seriously? I've already embarrassed myself enough in the play. If they take pictures and post them on social media, I'm done for.

"Wait, you can't. Ryouta doesn't like having his picture taken."

Yuria, now in her uniform, stepped between me and the girls.

She must have already changed, as she had her prince costume draped over her arm and was holding her boots.

"You can post my pictures on social media all you want, but Ryouta's shy, so give him a break."

"O-oh! Sorry!"

Warned by Yuria, the understanding fans quickly dispersed.

"…Jeez, you were getting carried away, Ryouta."

"How so?"

"You had this look on your face like you weren't entirely unhappy about being surrounded by girls."

"Well… I mean, a little…"

"A little? That's not good enough. This is why you're like this, Ryouta."

Yuria let out an exasperated sigh.

What does she mean, "like this"?

"But you were pretty good out there, Ryouta. Your acting got more natural, so I was relieved. It helped me get into my role too."

"…Is that so?"

"And I was super nervous before going on stage. Everyone told me I looked really intense."

True, Yuria's eyes did look sharp and severe backstage.

"Also… about that kiss."

"…!"

Yuria suddenly brought up the awkward topic.

"Th-that was just a little reward, you know? You were trying so hard but seemed nervous, so I thought I'd tease you a bit."

"W-was that all it was?"

"Yeah, yeah! So there was no weird meaning behind it or anything… but hey, Ryouta, weren't you happy I kissed you?"

E-even if she asks me that…

For a virgin introvert like me, it's not about being happy or unhappy, it's more like…

"How do I put it… I've never been kissed before, so… I honestly got a little excited."

"Wh-what? E-excited!? What are you talking about!"

"I was just giving you my honest opinion—"

"I-I'm not doing it again!"

For some reason, I seemed to have made Yuria angry. It was her ad-libbed kiss that started it all… I wonder why she's so mad.

"Hey, Yuria, everyone's gone to Tanaka's maid café. We should hurry up too."

"M-maid café? Maid café, huh…"

"What's wrong? You don't like them?"

"It's not that I don't like them, but… I have some bad memories associated with maid outfits."

"Bad memories?"

"You remember what Rui was about to say on the way to school this morning?"

That must be… the cosplay café incident that everyone called a tragedy!?

"Please, tell me everything!"

"What's with that reaction… I don't really want to talk about it, but fine."

Yuria began to speak with a sigh.

"At last year's cosplay café, I was supposed to wear a maid outfit, but the skirt of the one I bought online was pretty short… and my thighs are, you know, kinda thick, right?"

It's not just "kinda."

Yuria definitely has the thickest and sexiest thighs in the school.

"I'd already bought it and it was a hassle to return, so I wore it on the day of the festival. But the appeal of my thighs was apparently too much. The student guidance counselor told me it was too sexually suggestive, so I was the only one banned from wearing a costume and had to serve customers in my gym clothes… it was the worst."

"I see."

So that's the full story…

In other words, Yuria's thighs are R-rated.

"By the way, could you wear that maid outfit for me sometime—"

"You think I would?"

"N-no, sorry."

A murderous glint in her eyes made me apologize immediately. So scary.

"Well… I understand how you feel, Ryouta… so if you come over to my place next time… I might wear it for you, just for a little bit."

"I'll be there."

"Ugh, that instant reply is so creepy."

 ☆☆

And so, the afternoon performance began.

Once again, I transformed into Snow White…

As I looked at my cross-dressed reflection in the restroom mirror for the second time today, I found myself gradually getting used to it, which only intensified my self-loathing.

Well, just one more performance, and I'll never have to cross-dress again. I just have to endure it.

As I came out of the men's restroom, a jet-black figure emerged from the adjacent women's restroom at the same time…!

"Oh? If it isn't Snow White."

A black knight appeared, clad in jet-black court attire, boots clicking.

A long sword hung at their waist, cape fluttering as they turned to face me.

An exquisitely beautiful, small, and well-proportioned face.

Straight black hair tied back, bangs swept up.

Slightly thick eyebrows and a gaze that seemed to see through everything sent a shiver down my spine.

Th-this is… Kuroki Rui's prince costume.

It was designed to be a matching set with Yuria's white prince costume.

"Fufu, you look surprised, Ryouta-kun."

"Well, yeah… your face and style are just too perfect. Of course I'd be surprised."

Kuroki's slender waist and thighs meant that even in men's clothing, she looked completely natural—amazing.

This is the perfect superhuman, Kuroki Rui.

"Now then, Ryouta-kun, shall we go?"

"Ah, yeah."

The gym's stage was set for the afternoon session, and the second performance of Snow White was about to begin.

Since it was my second time, I wasn't as nervous as I was for the first.

"Hey, Ryouta."

As I was taking deep breaths backstage, Yuria called out to me from behind.

"How are you feeling? Nervous?"

"I-I'm fine. It's the second time, after all."

"Really? Well, that's good… Oh, Ryouta, look over there."

"Hm?"

I followed Yuria's finger and saw Miyama on the opposite side of the stage, waving vigorously at us.

"Seriously, Miyama's so carefree…"

"Maybe, but I think she's actually nervous too."

"You think so?"

"Yeah. She always panics when she gets called on in class."

I think that's just because she doesn't know the answer.

"Airi and Rui are both giving it their all, so you better give it your all one last time too, Ryouta."

"…Yeah."

It's fine. I didn't mess up my lines in the first performance; it was perfect.

I just have to do the same thing again. Nothing to be afraid of.

"Next up is 2nd Year Class B's Gender-Swapped Snow White."

After the MC's announcement, I fixed my gaze on the stage.

"Yuria… I'm heading out."

"Yeah, break a leg."

I stepped onto the stage and walked to the center.

Maybe it was because I was more confident than the first time, or maybe I'd just gotten used to cross-dressing, but my walk felt more natural.

'Once upon a time—in a certain kingdom's castle, there lived a beautiful princess with skin so fair she was called Snow White—'

Just like before, the three spotlights from the second floor all focused on me.

The lighting that had bothered me so much the first time around was barely noticeable now.

The audience was overwhelmingly larger than in the morning.

Not only was every seat filled, but there were students standing in the aisles.

So this is the Kuroki Rui effect…

Use Yuria as the prince in the morning to generate buzz, then bring out the most popular girl in school, Kuroki Rui, in the afternoon.

That's how they managed to draw this kind of crowd… I can see why they wanted a double cast.

The pressure was immense, but I felt strangely calm.

The success of the first performance had given me a boost of confidence.

Alright… I can do this.

"Living in a castle is so boring… I wish I could meet my Prince Charming someday."

My delivery was probably calmer than the first time.

Feeling a sense of my own growth, I finished the first two scenes and moved on to the forest scene.

'The huntsman, ordered by the Queen to kill Snow White, has brought her into the forest.'

"Oh, poor, pitiful Snow White… I will tell the Queen that you are dead, so please, escape into the forest."

"Yes…"

Snow White walks through the forest, and next is the scene where she encounters the dwarves, led by Miyama.

I glanced toward the wings, and Miyama gave me a small nod.

"Oh my—? That beautiful—"

It happened the moment Miyama and the other six dwarves stepped onto the stage.

A pop sound echoed, followed by the sound of plastic rolling across the stage.

It probably wasn't loud enough for the audience to hear, but everyone on stage knew what had happened and their eyes widened.

"Uh… so—"

That's right—the second button from the top of Miyama's bright red dwarf jacket had just popped off and flown away.

Wh-what are you doing, Miyamaaa!!

I'd been worried that her costume wouldn't be able to handle her size, but I never thought it would reach its breaking point right now…

The top button was already undone because her chest was too big, and now that the second one was gone, her jacket was wide open, putting her cleavage on full display.

Her ample chest, usually hidden by her uniform, was now prominently displayed. From my close vantage point, I could even see her white, floral-patterned bra.

The sight was unexpectedly alluring.

I'm glad I'm wearing a skirt today. If I'd been in pants, I would have been socially executed.

Even the usually unflappable Miyama's face turned bright red, matching her costume…

Normally, I'd welcome a lucky pervert moment, but… I actually feel bad for her.

This isn't a busty dwarf anymore—she's just a straight-up exhibitionist.

Looking out at the audience, I could see they were trying to hide their agitation, as expected.

I want to help her, but… if the play is to go on, there's nothing I can do.

"Th-that beautiful outfit and elegant face must be Snow White!? What a fortunate coincidence! Please, come and rest at our dwarf house!"

Miyama was so shocked she was speaking in a complete monotone, but I felt a strange sense of professionalism from her as she continued the performance without stopping.

Then, as before, the play moved into the harem scene, but Miyama was so embarrassed that she kept one arm over her chest while she massaged my shoulders.

"Ryouta… don't stare at my chest too much."

She whispered quietly from behind me as she massaged my shoulders.

No matter what you say, I'm going to look. Yes.

Thanks to Miyama's efforts, we somehow managed to get through the harem scene.

"Well then, Snow White, we're off to work. Please watch the house."

"Understood… Everyone, please be careful."

My exchange with the dwarves ended, and the play moved toward its finale.

"Excuse me. I seem to have injured myself. Could you help me?"

The Queen, played by Hino, entered the dwarf house.

And then, just like before, she handed me the poison apple.

Once I eat this… it's the final scene.

From the wings, Kuroki was watching me with a faint smile.

I have no idea what she's thinking, but… all I can do is go to sleep.

I once again pretended to bite the apple, staggered, and lay down on the bed with my eyes closed.

"Hehehe! Now Snow White is deaaad! My poison apple is the best in the woooorld!!"

Didn't his line change from the first time?

As the Queen exited, the sound of boots replaced her.

Click, click, the footsteps approached.

""""WHOOOAAAA!!""""

A heavy wave of cheers from the audience washed over the stage.

A presence I could feel even with my eyes closed.

With great fanfare, Kuroki Rui stepped onto the stage.

"Hmph… I let my horse wander and ended up in this forest. To think there'd be a house here."

Her acting ability was as impressive as it had been in rehearsals.

Kuroki was completely in character.

This is Kuroki's acting, always striving for perfection…

Even with my eyes closed, I was overwhelmed.

The difference between her acting and mine is like night and day…

My acting after this… will it be okay?

I couldn't help but worry about the upcoming exchange between the prince and Snow White.

I have no confidence that I can keep up with Kuroki Rui's acting…

"Oh? A beautiful woman, in a place like this."

In the darkness, I could hear the sound of boots getting closer.

H-here it comes…

My heart began to pound.

It was less nervousness and more a sense of impatience.

Once the kiss is over, it's my turn to act.

"What!? She's not breathing! This is terrible—I must perform artificial respiration at once!"

I could smell Kuroki's scent drawing near.

A refreshing, clean, fruity fragrance.

I opened my eyes by just a sliver.

Kuroki was… perfectly faking the kiss.

Her face was close, but of course, her lips never touched mine.

Cries of agony rose from the audience, but surely everyone knew it was just an act.

Yes, just an act.

She's always striving for perfection; there's no way she'd break her perfect performance here.

That must be the kind of perfection she aims for.

Kuroki's face pulled away.

At the same time, I sat up.

"…Are you awake, Princess?"

Kuroki is… as expected, a perfectionist, completely immersed in her role.

In that case, I have to match that perfection.

"P-Prince! Thank you. Your kiss has awakened—"

It happened in that instant.

As I was speaking, the stage lights suddenly went out.

"Huh…?"

Startled by the sudden darkness, I stopped mid-sentence.

This definitely isn't part of the show.

I glanced toward the wings and could tell the backstage crew was in a panic, even in the pitch-black darkness.

Did a breaker trip, or was it some kind of technical error? I don't know the cause, but for now, we should probably wait for the lights to come back on.

"Kuroki, let's wait for the lights."

I whispered to Kuroki, but she didn't respond.

Well, knowing her, she's probably calmly assessing the situation, so there's no need to worry.

After waiting for a short while, the lights gradually returned, illuminating the stage once more.

The audience, which had been murmuring in confusion, immediately fell silent.

It seems to be fine now. Let's start over.

"P-Prince! Thank you. Your kiss has awakened me."

"……"

Hm? Kuroki…?

Normally, she should respond with, 'There's no need for thanks. I was simply drawn to your beauty,' and we'd move into the final engagement scene. But for some reason, Kuroki was just standing there in front of the bed.

…Don't tell me she forgot her line?

No, wait. This is Kuroki Rui we're talking about. Forgetting her lines is something that… could happen, I guess.

Looking closely, I could see sweat trickling down her forehead.

Her resolute expression showed no sign of confusion, but still… to me, standing right in front of her, she looked troubled.

However, because the entity known as Kuroki Rui is usually so perfect, I can't tell if she's forgotten her line or if this is just another part of her act.

But… if, hypothetically, Kuroki has forgotten her next line, the only thing to do is for me, the person on stage with her, to feed it to her.

The problem is how.

I could whisper it, but the stage is so close to the audience that even a whisper might be heard. If that happened, everyone would know that 'Kuroki forgot her line.'

That would surely wound the perfectionist Kuroki Rui.

So, what if I ad-lib and try to connect the lines somehow? No, that won't work either.

If she's panicking, ad-libbing would only fluster her more.

First, I need to calm her down and get the story back on track according to the script.

At this point, it's do or die… I have to do something.

In this situation, there's only one way to give her the line at close range without the audience hearing.

Having made my decision, I slowly rose from the bed, reached for Kuroki's shoulders, and pushed her down onto the bed.

Then, as if going in for a kiss, I used my long wig as a curtain to hide our faces from the wings.

As expected, shrieks erupted not only from the audience but also from backstage.

Good. This way, neither the audience nor our classmates will know she forgot her line.

They'll just think I ad-libbed and pushed her down on a whim.

"Ryouta… kun?"

At a distance where our faces were almost touching, I stared at Kuroki without a hint of embarrassment.

"Kuroki, listen. Your next line is, 'There's no need for thanks. I was simply drawn to your beauty.' When you get up, just go back to your original tone. Don't break your perfect character, got it?"

"My… okay."

When Kuroki gave a soft smile and started to get up on her own, I backed away and faced her as she stood.

Now we can finally move on to the engagement scene.

I was worried for a moment, but we managed to pull through.

"Fufu, to receive such a passionate kiss from the princess herself… this is the greatest happiness."

…Huh? Wait, what's with that line! We didn't kiss!

With Kuroki's comment after regaining her composure, the audience grew even more excited.

Whoa, whoa, whoa, the princess didn't push down the prince in the morning performance. Now it really looks like we kissed!

Glancing toward the wings, I saw Yuria and Miyama scowling at me.

Ah, this might be bad…

"As for helping you, there's no need for thanks. I was simply drawn to your beauty."

However, Kuroki had completely recovered.

It was as if her forgetting the line had been part of the act… well, at this rate, no one will think she messed up, so whatever.

"I thank this fateful encounter… and I swear to love you for the rest of my life."

With my declaration in the final engagement scene, the play finally came to a close.

☆☆

I don't need to go into the details of what happened after the play.

The girls in my class teased me, saying, "You were so bold, Izumiya-kun," while the boys hurled abuse like, "Don't mess around," and "Don't get cocky"… It was awful.

And Yuria told me, "After you change, you're going to explain everything to me in detail." Ah, so scary.

But no one mentioned Kuroki forgetting her line. In other words, only Kuroki's perfection was preserved.

If it all ended with me just taking some flak, I guess that's a good result.

I returned the Snow White costume to the costume staff, then headed to the gym entrance where Yuria and the others were supposed to be waiting.

"Ah, sorry to keep you—huh?"

When I arrived at the gym entrance, feeling awkward, only Kuroki was there for some reason.

Already changed into her uniform, Kuroki smiled slightly and walked toward me.

"I had Yuria and Airi wait on the rooftop. I told them we'd buy some food and have an after-party up there."

"What's that about… Well, we'd better hurry up and buy something then."

When I started to walk, Kuroki gently grabbed my hand to stop me.

"Ryouta-kun, let's take a little detour."

☆☆

Since our class was performing in the gym, the classroom was locked, but as class president, Kuroki had the key.

"Wh-why do we have to talk in the classroom?"

"……"

"Hey, Kuroki."

Ignoring me, Kuroki unlocked the door and went inside.

I had no choice but to follow her into the classroom.

Kuroki sat in her usual seat, so I sat in mine to her left.

"So, what did you want to talk about?"

"You already know."

"W-well, I have a general idea."

"Fufu. Then first… thanks for helping me, Ryouta-kun."

Kuroki looked straight at me and expressed her gratitude.

"So you really did forget your line?"

"Well, I wonder about that?"

"'I wonder'!? L-listen, do you have any idea how much I was panicking in that situation?"

"Fufu, but… really, thank you, Ryouta-kun."

Since she thanked me so sincerely, I decided not to press the issue.

If it had been a deliberate act, I doubt she would be expressing this much gratitude.

"I feel like you're always saving me, Ryouta-kun."

"Always? Are you talking about the graduation ceremony in our second year of middle school?"

"You knew? Ah, did you hear from Tanaka-san from the broadcasting club?"

"Something like that. You forgot the manuscript for your valedictory speech, right? But then I collapsed from poor health, the ceremony was interrupted, and your manuscript arrived."

"Yeah. That's right."

For someone like Kuroki Rui, who always aims for perfection, I was surprised she'd make such a rare mistake. More than that, I was surprised that I had unconsciously helped her.

"Even though I'd become student council president, I was swamped with club activities back then and didn't have time to look over the speech. So when I realized the manuscript wasn't in my pocket, I despaired. I thought the perfect image I'd built up would crumble in front of everyone… I panicked more than I ever had before."

So even the great Kuroki panics sometimes.

"But in the end, you saved me, Ryouta-kun. So the perfect me that exists now is thanks to you. If I had failed back then and lost my confidence, the me of today might not exist."

"…Kuroki."

"So thank you for that time, too, Ryouta-kun."

"…W-well! It's not like I did it on purpose."

Being thanked with such a pure smile made me blush.

"There's that tsundere side again."

"I'm not a tsundere!"

When I denied it, Kuroki giggled.

Jeez, what part of me is a tsundere?

"But you know, it's not just those times you've saved me, Ryouta-kun."

"Huh? I don't remember any other time…?"

"Of course you don't. Because the other time was… when I was in elementary school."

"E-elementary school? We went to different elementary schools, though."

"That's true. But remember the cat story I told you before?"

The cat story… come to think of it, she did say something about having a cat… hm?

"You mean the story about your cat escaping at the multi-story parking garage in the next town over?"

"Yes. You were so unresponsive when I told you that I didn't say anything, but… the one who saved my family's cat back then was you, Ryouta-kun."

"Huh… wait, m-meee!?"

The boy who saved Kuroki's cat was me!?

My brain can't keep up. I have no memory of being told anything like that.

I-it's true that I often went to the next town for my parents' errands in elementary school, but… did something like that really happen?

"I don't remember at all, but now that you mention it, maybe it did… or maybe it didn't…"

"Hey, Ryouta-kun, didn't you have a habit of leaving your name tag on when you went out to play after school in elementary school?"

"Huh…! How do you know that?"

As Kuroki said, I did have a habit of forgetting to take off my name tag and would often go out to play with it still on.

My homeroom teacher and parents scolded me for it all the time back then.

But if she knows that, then…

"So, the name tag of the boy who saved the cat… had my name on it?"

"Yep. It was clearly written: 'Izumiya Ryouta.' In hiragana."

The truth is a bit hazy, but based on the circumstantial evidence, it seems it really was me.

To instantly look at someone's name tag and memorize their name… Kuroki's memory is insane.

"I was the one who let the cat escape, and I was so panicked I was about to cry. But because you caught it, Ryouta-kun, I was saved…"

Kuroki recalled the memory as if savoring it, her gaze softening as she looked at me.

"But I never imagined that years later, in middle school, I'd be saved again by that same 'Izumiya Ryouta-kun.'"

To think a shy, inexperienced introvert like me helped the great Kuroki Rui twice… even if it was unconscious, my past-self made some fine plays.

Because I helped her back then, it connects to now… wait.

"Hm, isn't something off? Kuroki, you knew my name before middle school, right? Then why didn't you ever talk to me until our second year of high school?"

"Th-that's because… I couldn't completely rule out the possibility of it being someone with the same name. And besides, back then I was still a maiden and wasn't perfect in that department."

That was the most incomprehensible thing Kuroki Rui had ever said. What department?

Well, it's not like I wanted her to talk to me anyway, so whatever.

"Okaaay! That's the end of my trip down memory lane!"

"The end?"

"But now you understand what I meant when I said I 'need you to stay perfect,' right? If I'm with you, Ryouta-kun… I feel like I can stay perfect forever. Always, eternally, for life…"

F-for life… This is…

"So I want you, Ryouta-kun… to stay by my side from now on, okay?"

"Huh? By your side…?"

C-could this be… a love confession!?

Does this mean… dating Kuroki!?

N-no, no! Wait, wait!

Of course! I'd be happy to date a super beautiful girl like Kuroki, but… I mean, to suddenly jump into that kind of relationship… I'm not mentally prepared!

"Ryouta… kun…"

Kuroki murmured my name, then gently brought her face close to my ear.

Her sweet breath tickled my skin.

My earlobes were so hot I knew they were bright red without even looking.

This is bad, at this distance… it's definitely a kiss!

After a love confession like "I want you to stay by my side," a bold kiss.

It's all happening so fast my brain can't keep up, but it must mean her feelings for me are that strong. Could it be that Kuroki is that… into me?

If the great Kuroki Rui is coming on this strong, even a virgin, introverted otaku like me has to be ready.

I get it, Kuroki… I'll accept your feelings with everything I've got!

As I awkwardly pursed my lips and closed my eyes, Kuroki leaned in even closer and…!

"The student council president election is this year—if I'm elected, I want you to be my vice president, Ryouta-kun."

"…Huh?"

The words whispered in my ear, felt like a hammer the head — a head that had been expecting a kiss. They were a request from Kuroki.

"M-me… v-vice president of the student council!?"

I had a premonition that something outrageous was about to begin all over again.

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