Our Cosplay Relationship Story

Episode 17: A New Rival

The sun filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow across Tatsuya's apartment as he slowly awoke, still wrapped in the comfort of the morning. He glanced over at Mikano, who was still peacefully asleep, a gentle smile gracing her lips.

After a few moments of quiet admiration, Tatsuya carefully slipped out of bed, trying not to disturb her. He stretched and headed to the kitchen to prepare breakfast, humming softly to himself. Just as he was flipping pancakes, the doorbell rang, interrupting his thoughts.

Curious, Tatsuya wiped his hands on a towel and made his way to the door. As he opened it, he was met with a striking girl standing on the threshold, her long, flowing hair and bright eyes exuding an air of confidence.

"Hi there! Is Mikano home?" she asked cheerfully, her voice melodic and inviting.

Tatsuya blinked in surprise, momentarily taken aback. "Um, she's still sleeping. Can I help you with something?"

The girl grinned, her smile bright enough to light up the hallway. "I'm Aiko Yamamoto. I just transferred to your school and heard about Mikano's amazing cosplay work. I was hoping to meet her and maybe talk about some projects."

Tatsuya felt a flicker of unease at the mention of "projects." "Oh, she's really passionate about cosplay," he replied cautiously. "What kind of project are you thinking about?"

Aiko shrugged, stepping into the apartment without waiting for an invitation. "I'm working on a new costume for the upcoming convention, and I could really use her input. Plus, I've seen her posts online, and I'd love to collaborate!"

Tatsuya felt a protective instinct rise within him. "Uh, sure. But you should probably wait until she wakes up."

Aiko waved her hand dismissively, her enthusiasm unwavering. "No worries! I can wait. I'm just excited to finally meet her. She seems like such a talented person."

Just then, Mikano emerged from the bedroom, her hair tousled and eyes still heavy with sleep. "Tatsuya? What's going on?" she asked, rubbing her eyes.

"Mikano!" Aiko exclaimed, brightening at the sight of her. "I'm Aiko, the new girl! I've heard so much about you and your amazing cosplays. I hope you don't mind that I stopped by!"

Mikano blinked, still trying to wake up. "Uh, hi? Nice to meet you... I think?"

Tatsuya watched as Aiko stepped closer to Mikano, her demeanour confident and friendly, but there was an edge to it that made him uneasy. Aiko began talking animatedly about her ideas, her voice full of excitement. Mikano smiled politely but seemed a bit overwhelmed.

Tatsuya could sense a shift in the atmosphere as Aiko leaned in, drawing Mikano into the conversation. "I'd love to work with you on a cosplay! I think we could create something really amazing together!"

"Um, thanks! That sounds fun," Mikano replied, her tone slightly hesitant. Tatsuya couldn't help but notice the spark of enthusiasm in Aiko's eyes as she spoke about her own skills, a contrast to Mikano's more reserved response.

As they chatted, Tatsuya felt a twinge of discomfort. Was he being overly protective? Aiko seemed nice enough, but he couldn't shake the feeling that she had her own agenda.

After a few moments, Mikano turned to Tatsuya, seeking his support. "What do you think, Tatsuya? Should I collaborate with Aiko?"

Tatsuya hesitated, searching for the right words. "I mean, if you want to... But remember, you don't have to do anything you're not comfortable with."

Aiko waved her hand again, clearly unbothered by Tatsuya's hesitance. "Oh, come on! This could be an incredible opportunity for both of us! Plus, I think it would be fun!"