Oshi no Ko: The Maestro

Chapter 39: The Strategic Dance of Akane and Hiroshi

Akane fidgeted in her seat, her cerulean blue hair falling in delicate waves around her shoulders, the vivid hue a stark contrast against her soft, pale skin. She wore a flowing, knee-length lavender dress that accentuated her slender frame, a touch of lace at the hem adding a hint of elegance to her ensemble. Her fingers drummed anxiously on the table as she watched her watch, each passing second making her nervous anticipation more palpable.

She fidgeted with her dress, glancing at her watch every few seconds, causing her anxiety to grow like a balloon at a helium factory. Just as she was about to burst from the nervous anticipation, Hiroshi appeared out of nowhere, and she jumped like a startled cat.

"Hello, Akane," Hiroshi greeted with a mischievous grin, causing her to nearly knock over her drink in surprise. "You look as if you've seen a ghost!"

Akane stammered, "H-Hiroshi! You startled me, that's all!" Her face turned crimson, and she muttered to herself, "I really need to work on my poker face."

Hiroshi sat at the table, taking in the ambience of the fancy restaurant. He was dressed in a style that was a mix of casual and eclectic, donning a black leather jacket with intricate silver embroidery, a vintage graphic tee, and well-fitted dark jeans. His striking appearance was marked by unique features: his vivid crimson eyes and a shock of white hair that added a touch of mystery to his presence.

With a sly grin, he remarked, "This is a fancy place, Akane. Your recommendations are always spot on." His playful demeanour suggested that he was no stranger to such upscale settings, despite his unconventional attire.

Hiroshi leaned back in his chair, his vivid crimson eyes fixed on Akane. "So, Akane, what have you been up to these days?" he asked with interest, a hint of curiosity dancing in his gaze.

Akane's blue eyes brightened as she replied, "Oh, I've been quite busy, Hiroshi. Work and school have been hectic, but I'm trying my best to keep up." She offered him a warm smile, her fingers momentarily ceasing their nervous fidgeting.

As they continued their conversation, the waiter, dressed in a crisp, black suit, approached their table with a friendly smile. He cleared his throat and asked, "Good evening. Are you ready to place your order?"

Hiroshi looked at the menu, his eyes scanning the dessert section. With a mischievous glint in his crimson eyes, he turned to the waiter and said, "I'll have the most decadent, over-the-top dessert you have. Surprise me, but make sure it's incredibly sweet, like a sugar rush in a plate."

The waiter raised an eyebrow but nodded with a knowing grin. "Very well, sir."

Akane couldn't help but chuckle at Hiroshi's choice, while the waiter jotted down his request and headed back to the kitchen to fulfil the order.

Akane's eyes widened in genuine surprise, and she chuckled softly, "I didn't know you had such a sweet tooth, Hiroshi."

Hiroshi grinned and leaned in, his voice playfully low, "Oh, Akane, I'm not one to discriminate when it comes to food. I enjoy all kinds of flavours and experiences." He winked, adding, "But when it comes to desserts, they just have that slight advantage, you know."

Akane couldn't help but laugh at his comment, and she teased, "I suppose you can handle bitter and spicy foods with ease, but when it comes to dessert, even the slightest hint of sweetness wins you over."

As Akane thought about it, a plan began to form in her mind. She knew her way around the kitchen and had a knack for making delectable desserts. This could be her chance to not only impress Hiroshi but also get to know what type of dessert he liked the most.

She hesitated for a moment, her blue eyes reflecting her inner debate. Finally, with a shy smile, she mustered the courage to ask, "Hiroshi, since you love desserts so much, I'd love to know what your absolute favourite is." Her voice carried a hint of anticipation, hoping he would share his preference with her.