Chapter 1
Lured by the warm spring air after my university lecture ended, I deviated from my usual route and strolled down a backstreet. This corner of town, where the good old days still lingered, was dotted with cafes known among students as hidden gems. Among them, one sign particularly caught my eye: "Hirahira Cafe." Contrary to its adorable name, the interior had a surprisingly calm atmosphere, with old wooden tables and chairs creating a quiet ambiance.
Opening the door, I entered to the ring of a bell. The afternoon sunlight poured in through the window, making the dust floating in the air glisten. My eyes landed on a single staff member standing at the counter.
"Welcome~"
A slow, yet clear voice echoed. The person behind that voice completely betrayed my expectations. Black hair tied in twin tails. The uniform wrapped around her slender frame only heightened her youthful appearance. She looked to be in her mid-twenties. Her chest made no effort to hide her modest bust, seemingly emphasizing it instead.
"Hello. I'll just take any seat."
I glanced around the shop and pointed to a table by the window.
"Understood~ Right this way to your seat then~"
She smiled brightly and led me over with a menu in hand. Her movements and loose manner of speaking, combined with her appearance, radiated a strangely captivating charm. Was she naturally airheaded, or was it calculated? The line between the two was delightfully blurred.
"Today's lunch special is the chef's recommended pasta set~"
As she opened the menu, she explained slowly. Her eyes seemed filled with pure curiosity.
"I'll have that, and a blended coffee."
"Understood~ I'll bring that right out for you~"
She gave a light bow and walked back to the counter at a leisurely pace. Watching her leave, I couldn't help but let out a quiet smile. While I often heard vivid romance stories from young students during my university lectures, it had been a long time since I faced a "subject" directly like this. Her name tag read "Ayaka." Ayaka Sai. Saying it aloud had a somewhat cute ring to it.
While waiting for my food, I observed her movements. Her interactions with other customers were equally polite, yet carried a slight clumsiness. Almost dropping a glass, nearly mixing up an order. But those flaws served as her charm points. The surrounding customers seemed to look upon her with tolerant eyes.
"Thank you for waiting~ Here is your pasta set and blended coffee~"
Ayaka stood before me again, holding a tray. As she placed the meal on the table, she glanced up at my face.
"Um, excuse me, Professor... are you a university professor?"
Surprised by the sudden question, I hadn't expected my occupation to be guessed from my casual clothes.
"Ah, yes. I teach at the nearby university."
"Wow... That's amazing~ You must be really smart."
Her eyes filled with genuine respect. That reaction didn't seem staged.
"I wonder about that. I'm not particularly good at anything outside my field."
"Really...? I'm terrible at studying~ That's why I respect smart people so much."
She blushed and averted her eyes. That gesture, like that of a girl in her prime, tickled my heart. I never thought I would feel such emotions at my age.
"Do you like working at this shop, Ayaka-san?"
"Yes! The customers are kind, and I love the atmosphere~ Though the pay is a bit..."
She laughed with a slight look of trouble. Behind her words, a hint of realistic worry peeked through.
"I see. That must be tough."
Without prying further, I took a sip of my coffee. Offering one last "Please call me if you need anything~," she returned to the counter.
Afterward, my eyes naturally drifted back to Ayaka. Every time she smiled, the atmosphere in the cafe softened. When she seemed slightly flustered, I found myself watching over her. This was no longer mere interest as a customer. It was a clear, masculine interest. I was aware of her to a degree that surprised even myself.
When I finished paying and prepared to leave, Ayaka called out to me.
"Professor, please come again~!"
Her smile was warmer than the spring sunlight, leaving a deep impression on my heart.
"Yeah, I'll be back."
Saying so, I left the shop. On the way home, I tried to sort through my feelings. A 58-year-old man, moved by a 27-year-old woman. The age gap was overwhelming. Furthermore, while I was unmarried, imagining a future with her was hardly realistic. Yet, this fluttering in my chest was not easily suppressed.
The next day, I visited "Hirahira Cafe" again. The moment Ayaka saw me, a full smile burst across her face.
"Professor, welcome~! I've been waiting for you~"
My heart leaped at those words. She had remembered me.
"I came back. I'll take today's recommendation again."
I sat at my usual seat and ordered without looking at the menu. Ayaka nodded happily and passed the order to the kitchen.
"Professor, how was your lecture today?"
She spoke to me while serving. I was inwardly surprised by her proactive approach.
"Hmm, well, the usual. A few sleepy students here and there."
"Fufu, if it were your class, Professor, I don't think I'd fall asleep at all~"
She teased with a giggle. Unlike her pure expression from the other day, this look contained a hint of mischievousness. Was this perhaps... a game of push-and-pull?
"Ahaha, I'm flattered to hear that."
I stared into her eyes, trying to fathom her intent. Her eyes darted for a split second, but her smile returned immediately.
"So, Professor, what kind of research do you do?"
"Well, my specialty is urban sociology."
"Aww-some! I really don't understand society stuff~ I don't think I like difficult topics."
She stuck out her tongue and shook her head playfully. Yet, that gesture felt meticulously calculated. She was using her "youth" and "innocence" as weapons, testing me.
"It's not all difficult topics. For example, why this cafe is located in this specific spot—I talk about things like that, too."
"Huh, really? If it's that, I might want to hear it."
Her eyes sparkled with curiosity. Was it genuine, or an act? I couldn't tell. This psychological game drew me in even further.
Over the next few weeks, I became a regular at "Hirahira Cafe." My conversations with Ayaka gradually shifted to more personal topics—her family, her hobbies, her dreams for the future. Bit by bit, yet steadily, she revealed herself to me. She was the type who wanted to be doted on and desired a cozy, domestic romance. At the same time, she possessed a "tsundere" side that liked to test her partner. That complexity drove me wild.
On one rainy day, when I visited the cafe, Ayaka was alone, gazing out the window at the rain. There were no other customers inside.
"Ayaka-san, is everything alright? No customers because of the rain?"
I called out and stood beside her.
"Ah, Professor... Yeah, I was just feeling a little lonely~"
She smiled wistfully. Her expression held a vulnerability I had never seen before.
"Didn't you bring an umbrella?"
"No, I forgot it... I was thinking of waiting for the rain to stop."
At her words, the response slipped out of me naturally.
"Then shall I give you a ride? In my car."
Her eyes widened in surprise.
"Eh, but..."
"It's fine. It's on my way."
I took her by the hand and led her out of the shop. Though slightly bewildered, she followed me. Out in the rain, I helped her into the passenger seat of my car. At that moment, her perfume drifted through the interior—a sweet, somewhat nostalgic scent.
"Thank you, Professor..."
She thanked me in a small voice. Unlike her earlier loneliness, her tone carried a shade of relief.
The car stopped in front of her apartment.
"This is fine right here."
"But..."
"It's alright. The rain has let up a bit."
I smiled at her. She hesitated for a moment before finally nodding.
"Well then, please come in..."
Getting out of the car, she turned back toward me. Her eyes, glistening from the rain, looked even more tearful.
"See you."
With those words, she disappeared into the apartment building. Watching her retreat, I let out a deep breath. My heart was still pounding wildly.
The next afternoon, I visited the cafe again. Seeing me, Ayaka's cheeks flushed red.
"Professor... thank you for yesterday."
"No, don't worry about it."
I sat in my usual seat. Just then, Ayaka timidly approached me.
"Um, Professor... if it's alright with you, would you like to go somewhere with me next time?"
Those words were beyond my expectations—to be asked out by her.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes... I wanted to talk to you more, Professor..."
She spoke shyly, looking down. She was in a state of complete "dere." All the calculated games from before seemed to melt away in an instant.
"Alright. How about next Saturday?"
"Yes! Anywhere is fine with me~!"
Her face lit up with pure joy. Seeing that genuine delight, I knew my decision was the right one.
On Saturday, as promised, I parked my car in front of Ayaka's apartment. Instead of her usual uniform, she wore a white dress. Though simple, it beautifully framed her slender silhouette.
"Did I keep you waiting?"
"No, I just got here. You look beautiful."
When I complimented her honestly, she offered a bashful smile.
For our date, we decided to go to the zoo. Every time Ayaka saw an animal, she delighted in it like a child. Especially at the small animal section, her eyes sparkled as she squealed with joy. Watching her innocent demeanor warmed my heart.
"Professor, that squirrel is so cute~!"
Taking my hand, she pulled me toward the squirrel cage. The warmth of her hand transmitted directly to my heart.
"Ah, you're right. It kind of looks like you, Ayaka-san."
"Eh, really? I'm not as fast as a squirrel~"
She giggled. We naturally walked around the zoo holding hands. The feel of her hand felt more precious than anything else.
After leaving the zoo, we headed to a slightly upscale restaurant for dinner. Ayaka looked at the menu with a tense expression.
"What would you like?"
"Hmm, I like meat~ But I've never had expensive meat before..."
I smiled at her words.
"Order whatever you like. It's my treat today."
"Really? Thank you so much!"
Delighted, she ordered a steak. When the food arrived, her eyes widened, and she let out a gasp at its splendor.
"Is it good?"
"Yes! It's so tender and delicious~!"
She ate with satisfaction. She looked utterly adorable and happy.
After dinner, I offered to drive her home, and after a brief hesitation, she agreed. Inside the car, we talked more deeply about each other—her views on love, her thoughts on family. I sensed strongly that she sought a stable affection, and I felt a powerful desire to give her that love.
When I parked in front of her apartment, silence enveloped us.
"Thank you for today. I had so much fun."
Ayaka softly grasped my hand.
"I had fun, too. I want to see you again."
I peered slowly into her face. Her eyes flickered with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. I gently overlapped my lips onto hers. She closed her eyes in surprise, but quickly wrapped her arms around my neck, responding deeply.
When our lips parted, she looked down, her ears turning bright red.
"Professor..."
"Ayaka..."
Calling her name, I pulled her into a tight embrace once more. Her body was small and warm, and that warmth seemed to heal my loneliness.
"I want to go to your room..."
I whispered into her ear. Her body tensed for just a moment, but soon she gave a small nod. That single nod decisively altered our relationship.
Her room was decorated with cute accessories that reflected her personality—stuffed animals, floral curtains, a pale-colored bed. It was a dreamlike space, entirely different from my own room.
"Shall I make some tea?"
Ayaka spoke, looking somewhat unsettled.
"No, more importantly..."
I took her hand and brought her to stand before the bed. Then, slowly, my fingers slid the shoulder strap of her dress aside. Her skin was smooth and white as porcelain. From her shoulder down to her chest, the dress slipped away. At that moment, her small chest met my eyes. Even over her clothes, I knew she had a modest bust, but seeing it in reality, its delicate nature took my breath away.
"Professor..."
Overcome with shyness, she closed her eyes. I gently placed my hand over her small bosom. Against my palm, I could feel the soft, warm rhythm of her heartbeat—a pulse that resonated through my hand and into my own chest.
"You're beautiful, Ayaka."
I whispered into her ear and softly pressed my lips against her breast. Her body gave a sudden start. I gently licked upward over her nipple; she let out a soft gasp and clutched at my hair.
"Ah..."
That sound stoked the fires of my desire. I laid her gently onto the bed and removed the rest of her dress. Her slender body was flawless, without a single blemish—it felt almost divine. I caressed every inch of her with my lips: her stomach, her waist, her thighs. Her skin began to heat up, responding to my touch.
"Professor... your clothes, too..."
She reached for the buttons of my shirt. Understanding her wish, I undressed myself. I felt a moment's hesitation about exposing my aging body to her, but her eyes held no disgust or disappointment—only pure curiosity and affection.
"Professor... you look so handsome..."
She placed her hand on my chest and stroked it slowly, as if savoring the sensation. Her touch was so endearing that I pulled her into a tight embrace.
"Ayaka... I love you."
I pressed my lips to hers once more—this time, deeper and more passionately. Her tongue entwined with mine, and our saliva mingled. It was a sacred ritual, a moment for our bodies and souls to become one.
I reached out toward the most intimate part of her. Her panties were already damp with her juices. Sensing that moisture with my fingertips, I gently slid my fingers inside.
"Ah... mmm..."
Ayaka let out a sweet moan and writhed her body. That reaction beckoned my fingers deeper. I slowly explored her, finding the spot where she felt the most pleasure, and continued to stimulate it—gently, yet persistently.
"Professor, no... I'm going to cum..."
Her voice took on a desperate, yearning tone. I whispered into her ear,
"It's okay... go ahead and come."
At that moment, her body shuddered violently, and she reached her climax. Her expression was so unguarded, so full of bliss, that I found myself captivated.
Waiting for her to settle down a bit, I stripped off my own underwear and slid my body between her legs. Then, I gently pressed myself against her wet entrance.
"I'm going inside, Ayaka."
"Yes... please... give me yours..."
At her words, I slowly thrust my hips forward. Her body was hot and tight, clamping down around me. The sensation sent a jolt of pleasure straight to my brain.
"Aah... Ayaka... it's amazing..."
Calling her name, I began to move slowly. She moved her hips in sync with mine, hungrily savoring the pleasure. I found it utterly endearing to see her small body trying so hard to take me all in.
"Professor... more... harder..."
Ayaka wrapped her arms around my back and pleaded. Answering her wish, I gradually quickened my pace. The bed creaked, and her moans echoed through the room. Craving one another, we became as one. "Ayaka... I'm coming..."
"I'm... coming... too..."
Mustering the last of my strength, I released myself deep within her. She reached her peak at the same moment, and our bodies continued to tremble violently. For an instant, it felt as though time had stood still; nothing existed but the undeniable warmth of each other's bodies.
After a while, I gently lifted myself off her. Her hair, damp with sweat, clung to her forehead, and a look of satisfied contentment played upon her lips. She was breathtakingly beautiful—a sight beyond compare.
"Professor..."
Clinging to my arm, she whispered my name.
"Hmm?"
"I'm so happy."
Those words sent a wave of warmth through my heart. I held her close in a tight embrace.
"I'm happy too, Ayaka."
Outside the window, the night deepened, yet this room remained bathed in the warm glow of our love. What would become of this relationship in the future? What would others think of the age gap? None of that mattered right now. All that mattered was the sheer happiness of holding this cherished person in my arms at this very moment.
We slowly drifted off to sleep just like that. And when the morning sun rose, we would reaffirm our love for one another once more—again and again. Just imagining the colors this miraculous encounter would bring to our lives made my heart race. Ayaka Sai—she was the one who transformed my ordinary, mundane days into a story worth telling.
