"So, what do you want to do today?"

I couldn't believe what had happened yesterday. Everything seemed to just fall in place.

I awoke to Emi smiling at me. The girl wanted to share her life with me. I felt really honored and ecstatic. I finally had won. My prize was the best thing that could have happened to me, a partner to tackle the rest of life with.

Emi finally had shared what haunted her past with me, and all I had to repay her was comfort. I was happy to give it. Sometimes I wonder if she forced it too early. Something didn't seem to make sense in my mind. Doubt risen up as my heart started to flutter. Perhaps that was a sign. I shove down that thought as Emi started to stare at me.

"I don't know, maybe I'll figure out later."

"Come on Hisao, you don't want to be late for our run, do you?"

"After what happened last night? Running? That's the last thing on my mind!"

That earned me a punch on my shoulder from the girl beside me.

"Jerk. Besides, I know you all too well. If I leave you alone, you'll likely eat something you're not supposed to!"

"Hadn't crossed my mind."

"Oh really now? So me running doesn't turn you on?"

I hadn't been expecting that remark. I told her the truth.

"Honestly, I hadn't thought about that. You know how running clears your head? I don't really have a care in the world, including on how beautiful you look. The only time I really noticed is when I see you at your track meets."

"I know!"

"Then why'd you ask?"

"You know I like flustering you! You seemed to really consider your answer. I saw it in your face. You wouldn't lie to me, would you?"

After all we went through yesterday, she jumped back into her normal routine. That worries me. It could mean that… She has regrets of what happened yesterday after all.

"No, but would you?"

Emi looks a bit shocked that I would turn the question back..

"Hisao."

"Yes."

"If I did, I wouldn't have done what I did yesterday."

"Yeah, I suppose, but your sex drive never stopped you before."

"Ass! You know what I meant."

"And…"

"And I don't feel comfortable repeating it. It was hard enough to say it the first time you know. I don't want to do it again."

I realize that. I truly am sorry for what I made her just say… I just can't say it to her face.

"Hisao."

I don't respond.

"I didn't mean to..."

I interrupt her. I feel really bad.

"No, no. It was me. I…"

I contemplate whether I want to just leave the topic alone, or ask her what's on my mind. Eventually, I decide on the former choice.

"Let me just get ready for my run, Emi. I'll meet you at the track, I might want to leave your room before someone sees me in the morning."

I use a simple excuse, although it is a valid one. It's not necessarily something I would like to explain to the school administration. Or worse, Shizune.

"Yeah, I guess you're right. You will tell me what is wrong later though. Right?"

Oh god, she started her pouting. I can't say no to that.

"Of course."

I smile weakly back at her. I'll never know if she's having doubts about yesterday. Even after what she said this morning. She wanted me to stick around. Or at least, she said that. She also apologized that she pushed me away so hard. Suddenly my smile is stronger. I do love her.

"And I mean that too. Once we finish running, I'll tell you. I can trust you with anything."

"Anything?"

A devious grin appears on her face. I don't want to know what she's thinking, but I'm sure I'll find out.

"Nothing too dangerous, please? I'd like to beat the prediction by the doctors because of my condition."

"So, sex is out of the question?"

"Nope, pretty sure I can handle that."

"Good."