Our Cosplay Relationship Story

Episode 22: New Perspectives

The school buzzed with excitement as students returned from the weekend, the atmosphere charged with energy from the recent culture festival. Tatsuya walked through the halls hand-in-hand with Mikano, their relationship now a source of curiosity and admiration among their classmates. However, a familiar presence loomed at the end of the corridor.

Saito leaned against the lockers, arms crossed and a brooding expression on his face. Tatsuya felt a mix of apprehension and curiosity. After all the tension and rivalry, he wasn't sure what to expect.

"Mikano, why don't you head to class first? I'll catch up in a bit," Tatsuya suggested, not wanting to put her in an awkward situation.

Mikano nodded, shooting Saito a wary glance before walking away. Tatsuya took a deep breath and approached Saito, who straightened up, his demeanour unexpectedly softer than before.

"Hey," Saito began, running a hand through his hair. "Can we talk?"

Tatsuya raised an eyebrow, surprised but willing to hear him out. "Sure. What's up?"

"I know I've been a jerk," Saito said, looking down for a moment. "And I've given you a hard time for... well, for being with Mikano and for everything else. I was just jealous, I guess."

"Jealous?" Tatsuya echoed, intrigued. "Why?"

Saito took a deep breath, finally meeting Tatsuya's gaze. "You changed, man. You went from being that quiet kid in the back of the class to someone everyone looks up to. It's like you found your place, and I didn't know how to handle that."

Tatsuya felt a flicker of understanding. "I didn't change overnight. It took time, and honestly, it was Mikano who helped me a lot."

"Yeah, I can see that," Saito replied, his tone thoughtful. "I guess I let my insecurities get the best of me. But I've realized I don't want to be that guy anymore. I want to be better."

"Better how?" Tatsuya asked, genuinely curious.

Saito shrugged, glancing away. "I don't know. Maybe by actually making friends instead of just trying to tear people down. I mean, look at you and Mikano. You guys are good together, and I can't keep holding onto this grudge."

Tatsuya hesitated, weighing Saito's words. "If you're serious about that, I think it could be a good step. It's not easy, but it's worth it."

Saito nodded slowly, then offered a small smile. "So, maybe we could start fresh? I could help with some cosplay stuff if you need it. I have a few ideas for designs."

Tatsuya couldn't help but smile back, surprised at this unexpected turn. "That sounds great. I could use all the help I can get."

As they talked, a bond began to form—a tentative understanding that perhaps they weren't so different after all. They shared a few laughs as they discussed their favourite anime and cosplay ideas, breaking down the walls that had once divided them.

"By the way," Tatsuya said, grinning, "if you need a model for your designs, I know a certain girl who would be more than happy to help out."

Saito chuckled. "I might just take you up on that."

Just then, Mikano returned, a curious look on her face as she approached the two boys. "What's going on here? Are you two actually getting along?"

"Surprisingly, yes," Tatsuya replied, his tone playful. "Saito wants to help with cosplay designs."

Mikano raised an eyebrow, glancing between them. "Are you serious, Saito?"

Saito nodded, a hint of sincerity in his voice. "Yeah, I've had a change of heart. I want to make things right."