After that somewhat eventful encounter, here we are now…
"Huff… huff… huff…"
Behind me, I could hear heavy, ragged breathing, and at the same time, I felt hands scrubbing my back vigorously.
In other words…
I'm naked in a mixed-gender hot spring, having my back washed. Wait, how did this even happen…?
---
A Little Earlier
After deciding on the name "Hisui Umino" for myself, Misago said, "I need to call my family real quick." She stepped away to make the call.
"...Make sure to reserve the best room for us!" she shouted loudly enough for me to hear.
I couldn't help but think it was a bit over the top. As a single, middle-aged man, I felt like I had little to offer in return for such generosity. The thought of repaying her kindness already gave me a headache.
Thinking about how I'll repay her kindness is already giving me a headache.
"Well, I'm used to working hard, so I'll figure something out eventually," I thought, trying to stay optimistic.
---
And so, after climbing up a ridiculously steep and winding slope and walking a fair distance down the road, we finally arrived at a white mini-truck parked nearby.
Along the way, Misago offered me her shoes, saying, "Here, wear these," and even asked, "Do you want me to carry you on my back?" There were some strange exchanges like that, but I declined, saying walking barefoot wasn't that big of a deal.
I wish she'd stop looking so shocked every time I refuse. I'm already going to be indebted to her, so that's more than enough.
When we got to the mini-truck, she started saying things like, "This probably isn't good enough for you," but I just told her to let me in and climbed into the passenger seat.
---
After passing through a somewhat rundown town and a hot spring district, we arrived at a large, impressive hot spring inn located at the very end of the street.
"Miss, where did you pick up this boy?!"
The staff had some rather questionable exchanges with her.
"I'm actually an adult, you know?"
I cut to the chase and clarified that I'm in my 30s, but…
"A legal shotacon?!"
…I got some bizarre reactions like that. Sure, I'm aware that I have a baby face and I'm short, but am I really that small?
I do remember being asked for ID when buying alcohol sometimes, but it's not like I'm that young-looking…
"Sorry for the trouble. I'll be in your care."
I bowed my head politely, and the room fell silent, making things a bit awkward.
---
After being shown to the room, Misago guided me to the hot spring at the very back. There was a sign warning that it was a mixed-gender bath. Without thinking, I blurted out, "Since we're here, why not go in together?"—a line that, coming from a middle-aged man, would normally be an instant sexual harassment strike.
But to my surprise, she responded with, "Are you sure?!"
And before I knew it, here we are now.
I couldn't help but feel like I was being treated too well. Maybe the world wasn't such a bad place after all.
---
There were no towels, as dipping them in the water was considered bad manners, and exfoliating towels were said to be harsh on the skin. So, we were completely naked.
Weirdly enough, my body feels slightly smaller than I remember. Looking in the mirror, it's definitely me, and the face is the one I'm used to seeing.
Honestly, though, I'm more distracted by Misago's soft skin reflected in the mirror behind me than by any discomfort with my own appearance. Her youthful skin, tanned limbs with a healthy complexion, and the contrast of her pale skin under her clothes—it's clear she's been staying active, with a toned and fit body.
To put it bluntly, she's exactly my type—an incredibly attractive body.
Since I've started growing some stubble, I grabbed a free razor provided for guests and am desperately trying to calm my nerves while shaving.
Behind me, Misago is breathing heavily for some reason, taking her time to finish washing my back. Her hands are slowly moving sideways, and while I'm trying to stay still because it's ticklish and dangerous, she doesn't seem to want to let go even after she's done.
Also, I think I felt two soft yet firm bumps pressing against my back. Not that I'm in any position to react—my imagination is running wild, and I'm trying to figure out how to play it cool. Should I just go with the flow?
In my mind, I'm spinning all sorts of fantasies. Honestly, I don't have much experience with this kind of thing. Hiding it or pretending it didn't happen won't make it any less exciting. At my age, being a virgin with no romantic experience is a bit of a sad reality. I genuinely don't know how to approach relationships or flirt.
That's a depressing thought.
Anyway, I've finished shaving, so I wash my face again and check for any missed spots. All good.
"Phew…"
I let out a sigh and relax.
But wait, do I look younger?
I'm feeling a strange sense of dissonance, but for now, I'll focus on the task at hand.
"Thank you. Would you like me to wash your back in return?"
I try to counter with a half-joking offer. As a man, I can't just let her do all the work.
"…Hya! …Please do!"
After a brief pause, she agrees with surprising enthusiasm. My body is already on high alert, but I'll try to play it cool with my positioning and movements. If she notices, that's that. Alright, let's do this.
---
This novel has been lovingly translated by https://www.patreon.com/Jenuinez_translation