>>5749703You think about how you can balance the whole dilemma between the shopping trip with Hanako and Suzuko's wish, when you realize that the whole situation is not that complicated.
"A bit occupied tomorrow... But I have a better idea. I am free at the moment, and I wanted to buy some things anyway. Lets do it now, shall we? You can tell me about your friends along the way, you have to present them to me sometime." You offer your sister, nonchalant. The prospect of making your sister happy while you buy some books or other things to help you with your investigations lights up your mind as if someone had turned on a light bulb.
Suzuko's face shows conflicting emotions. First disappointment when you reject her idea, then happiness when she listens to your proposal, to which is then added a mixture of anxiety, confusion and suspicion at the end.
"I... I can call them and I'm sure they would like to go out with me... But why do you want to know about them?" Your sister looks into your eyes, searching for something in your gaze. "Did any of them talk to you or something?" She looks scared, though you can't understand why.
You smile softly, comfortably at your little sister. "No, but I don't know much about any of them, and I would like to know what kind of people you talk to and have fun with. I just want to know more about you, Suzu-chan."
Suzuko looks down and sticks to your side, walking in silence.
When she speaks again, it's in a soft, almost vulnerable way. "I know a lot of girls, but my best friends are my colleagues in the student council. There's Rei, who's like our secretary, she's studious and kind, really likes cats. Then there's Hikari, who's more... Determined in what she wants. She is in charge of organizing the sports club. And then there is Masuyo, who likes to organize parties and festivals. She is lively and somewhat wild, but would never hurt anyone for no reason."
A laugh escapes your lips as you caress your sister's hand. "I can't wait to meet them, they sound like a fun group to be in."
"They are." You can hear how Suzuko seems more relaxed, although she still doesn't seem to want to leave your side.
