"...Ah, that was delicious."

"...I’m so full, nyan."

"...I can’t move."

"...I’m completely stuffed."

"...Totally satisfied."

One hour later, five people were sprawled out in the living room, lying like starfish.

I had also tried the dragon cutlet, and it was absolutely satisfying. While the grilled meat with salt and pepper, golden sauce, and grated sauce was great, the cutlet with sauce was undeniably a winner!

The beastkin also seemed thoroughly pleased, and we managed to go through quite a bit of the dragon meat. Still, the sheer volume of meat we obtained in the first place was insane, so there’s plenty left.

"My bad, man. I didn’t think it’d be this good. We ate way too much of that precious dragon meat."

"No worries. Watching you all enjoy it so much makes me really happy."

For someone who enjoys cooking, seeing others relish their food is a reward in itself. On top of that, I got to enjoy the dragon meat as well, so I have no complaints.

"...Hey, Big bro Masayoshi. How about joining our party? I’m not just saying this because of the cooking, but you’re strong, and you’d fit in with us so well."

"That’s a great idea! I wouldn’t even hesitate to give up my spot as leader. What do you say? Want to go on adventures with us?"

"I agree, Master Masayoshi! Wouldn’t you consider it?"

"Big brother, come on adventures with us, nyan!"

"…………"

The sudden invitation to join their party caught me off guard. It hasn’t been that long since we met, but they’re inviting me to join their team already—it’s flattering.

"...I’m truly honored by the offer, but, for a certain reason, I can’t stay in this city permanently. I’m very sorry..."

As much as I’d love to, I have a life back in my original world. Becoming an adventurer would mean going on expeditions for days at a time, but since I can only come to this world after school or on weekends, it’s just not feasible.

There’s no way I’m ready to abandon my life back home and live here entirely.

"Ah, I see. That’s a shame. But if you ever change your mind, just let us know! You’re always welcome here!"

"Thank you! Oh, but I am interested in adventurer work, so if it’s alright, can I join you on a quest sometime?"

"Of course, nyan!"

"You’re always welcome to join us!"

Though joining their party isn’t possible, participating in quests and getting a taste of adventurer life might be fun.

Afterward, we relaxed as they shared tales of their past adventures. As expected of young A-rank adventurers, their stories were fascinating, and I had a great time.

"Well then, I had a wonderful time. I’ll visit again when I have the chance!"

"Yeah, come by anytime!"

"We’ll be waiting for you!"

"See you later, big brother!"

Nena latched onto me again. She seems to have a habit of being clingy—not just with me, but also with Lilith and the others. Since she mentioned being an orphan, she might be quite a bit younger than the rest of them.

"Alright, I’ll visit again soon!"

"Funyanaa!"

I patted Nena’s head, her fluffy cat ears included. She looked so content it warmed my heart. Having a little sister might feel like this. But whoa, better not get carried away.

"Well then, I’ll be off now."

"...Masayoshi."

"...Huh? W-whoa!?"

Hug.

"M-MS. Lilith!?"

Suddenly, Lilith hugged me! The soft sensation unique to a woman was palpable even through her armor, and her sweet scent wafted into my nose.

"...Ah, sorry. I might’ve had a bit too much to drink and lost my balance. But seriously, thank you for everything! You’re welcome here anytime."

With that, she let go as if nothing happened.

"Ah, y-yes! Thank you for having me. I’ll see you again soon!"

Feeling flustered, I quickly made my way out of their house.

Man, my heart’s racing! My face is probably beet red right now. Lilith’s usually so tomboyish, but she really is a beautiful woman.

That scent... And her slightly flushed face from the alcohol made her look so cute. For a moment, I even felt like patting her cat ears too, but somehow managed to hold back.

...She said she stumbled because of the alcohol, but was that really it? Damn it, I have no clue about women’s feelings! Ugh, I’ll be overthinking this all night!

Back in the house:

"...Lilith."

"...That’s not fair."

"...Not fair, nyan!"

"What?! You guys were all over him earlier today, so it’s fine if I got a turn!"

"Honestly, no one can let their guard down around you."

"...Still, it’s a shame. It would’ve been great if Master Masayoshi joined our party."

"Big bro Masayoshi probably has a lot on his plate. For all we know, he might even be handling kingdom-level missions."

"He said he’d visit again, so let’s just be happy with that for now."

"You’re right. He’s helped us so much already. Next time, we should repay the favor and support him however we can."

"I can’t wait to see him again, nyan!"