Chapter 33

Taking My Girlfriend to Meet My Parents, Part 2. 2007/01/04 20:14 At the end of the year. At a time when a certain major djinshi event was being held in a certain convention center. I was nowhere to be found at that center; I was at the airport. —Taking my girlfriend to America so that I could show her to my parents. Y-ko stood at my side, nervously clutching her passport. As this was her first trip out of the country, she was slightly spooked about the ordeal. … To be honest, I felt much the same way on my first trip overseas, so I could understand her anxiety. Y-ko stared fiercely at the sample statements she had printed up from the Internet. Aww, isn’t that cute? Actually, it seems like she’s more nervous about the immigration check upon landing than about meeting my parents… Well, I understand how she feels. Plus, it’s not like she has anything to be anxious about with my folks. Ooh, what a glare. … In fact, I might be forgiven for thinking it was a dead serious glare. Two hours later. We filed into an airplane with an American airline company’s name painted in gaudy colors on its outside and searched through the spacious cabin for our seats. … Ah, there they are. Yes, good old economy class. Compact? Cozy? Let’s call it out for what it is—cramped. We stored our bags in the overhead bins and sat down. Baby, when you hesitantly ask me to do something like that, well… It gives me a nervous thrill completely different from the kind you usually send running down my spine. —I felt a squeeze. She had grabbed my left hand. This is so unfair! Plus, that was so not a “step”! That was a kick! Not to mention, how did it take me this long to realize that she really likes stomping on me? Suddenly, an announcement in English rang through the cabin, drowning out our silly bickering. Looks like the flight is about to begin. At my side, Y-ko affixed her seat belt, looking determined and serious. … A little too grave, my dear. I understand how you’re feeling, though. The voice in English spoke up again, announcing the expected arrival time. … Whoa. This time she pleaded with tears in her eyes. … It was such a rare sight, I felt a tug at my heart. Wow! Y-ko acting honest and straightforward for once! What’s gotten into her? … Aww, hell! Why does she keep acting so timid and helpless?! It’s so different from normal! I don’t get it, but it sure is cute! … I thought, as the plane sped up. And then, the moment of liftoff. —Squeeze. The pressure on my left hand grew even firmer. … Come on. —Really, what’s the big deal? Are you trying to moe me to death?