Our Cosplay Relationship Story

Episode 9: Care and Connection

The week following the school culture festival started off on a high note, but Tatsuya soon found himself battling a sudden wave of exhaustion. It began with a scratchy throat, but by Wednesday morning, he woke up feeling like he'd been hit by a truck. A dull headache throbbed at his temples, and he could feel the warmth of a fever creeping in.

He forced himself out of bed, hoping a shower would help, but as the steam enveloped him, he realized he could barely stand. Swaying slightly, he decided that school would have to wait. Tatsuya slumped back into bed, pulling the covers tightly around him.

"Just a little rest," he thought, closing his eyes. "I'll be fine by tomorrow."

As the day dragged on, however, his body felt heavier, and sleep came in short bursts. He missed his classes, his friends, and especially Mikano's bright energy.

Meanwhile, at school, Mikano noticed Tatsuya's absence. They'd developed a routine of sitting together during lunch, sharing stories and laughter, and his empty seat felt conspicuously wrong.

"Tatsuya's not here?" she asked Kaito, who was sitting with his brother and friends at their usual table.

"Nope," Kaito replied with a shrug. "He looked pretty pale at the festival, to be honest. Maybe he finally overdid it."

Mikano frowned, worry creeping in. "I should check on him."

After school, she made her way to Tatsuya's apartment, her heart racing with concern. She remembered how vulnerable he had looked during their earlier confrontations with Saito, and she hated the thought of him feeling alone and unwell.

Standing outside his door, she hesitated for a moment, but then knocked gently. There was no answer. She knocked again, a little louder this time. "Tatsuya? It's me, Mikano!"

Still nothing. Growing anxious, she pulled out her phone and sent him a quick message: Hey, just checking in. I hope you're okay!

Moments later, a response popped up, but it was a single word: Sick.

Her heart sank. Without thinking too much, she tried the doorknob. To her surprise, it turned easily. Tatsuya hadn't locked the door.

"Mikano?" came a weak voice from within.

"I'm here," she said softly, stepping into the apartment. The space was dim, and a faint scent of something medicinal lingered in the air. Tatsuya lay sprawled on the couch, bundled in a thick blanket, looking more fragile than she'd ever seen him.

"Oh my gosh," she gasped, rushing to his side. "You look terrible!"

He managed a weak smile, his eyes half-open. "Thanks for the vote of confidence."

"Seriously, what happened?" Mikano asked, kneeling beside the couch. "You should have told me you were sick! I would have brought you soup or something."

"I didn't want to bother anyone," he replied, his voice barely above a whisper. "It's just a cold."

"Just a cold? You're burning up!" She reached out to feel his forehead and grimaced. "You need to take better care of yourself. I can't believe you tried to tough it out alone."

Tatsuya looked down, feeling a mix of embarrassment and gratitude. "I didn't think it would get this bad..."

"Well, it has," she said firmly, standing up. "I'm going to get you some medicine and make you some soup. You're not going to argue with me about this."

Tatsuya chuckled lightly, appreciating her determination. "I really don't want to be a burden."

"You're not a burden," Mikano replied, shaking her head. "You're my friend, and friends take care of each other. Now, stay here."