I Went to Tell My Idol, "I Found a Girlfriend", and the Next Day, News of Her Marriage Came Out — Part 1

Childhood Friend vs. My Favorite Idol (???)

“I, Shougo Akatsuki, am just an ordinary guy attending college.”

On the side, I’m also a bit of an otaku. I enjoy anime, manga, and light novels, but recently, I’ve been really into a particular idol group.

A seven-member idol group, Shiny＊Crusher.

They’re incredibly popular, known for their good looks and performances that don’t disappoint, as well as their charm. They’re practically a national sensation that everyone knows about.

Among them, my favorite is Shirayuki Yukino.

With her silky, two-sided-up white hair and big, light blue eyes, she’s the epitome of purity, gentle in her demeanor. But on stage, her powerful singing voice captivates the audience, and she consistently ranks first in the group’s popularity polls. She’s also a top pick on “celebrities people want as a wife,” a true beauty.

Today, she’s holding an exclusive live performance.

I’m tying my shoes, feeling all excited, when I hear the soft “pat, pat, pat” of slippers coming closer.

“You’re really going to the concert, huh?”

My childhood friend and girlfriend, Yuki Konami, says this as she approaches, licking a lollipop. Since our houses are next to each other, and our parents are on their honeymoon, we decided to spend the three-day weekend together.

“Oh, what’s this? Is my girlfriend jealous that her boyfriend is off to see his idol?”

“Not really…”

She says this, still licking her lollipop, not sounding jealous at all.

I only got tickets to this exclusive concert because they were a bonus item in Shirayuki’s solo CD. I’d saved my allowance and bought plenty, but it was Yuki’s ticket that actually won us entry. So really, it’s thanks to her that I’m able to go to this concert.

“I just thought, wow, he’s choosing his idol over some quality time with his girlfriend…”

“That sounds like jealousy! But hey, idols are kind of special…”

“Is it really, though? And I won the ticket, you know.”

“For that, I am very, very grateful! I’ll do anything to show my appreciation—just name it.”

“Hmmm, anything, huh? Okay, I’ll think about it while you’re gone.”

“Please don’t make it something weird, alright?”

With that, I open the door.

“If you need anything, call me. I’ll be there in a flash.”

“What about the concert?”

“I’ll just sneak out, of course. My girlfriend is more important to me.”

“Hmmm, you say that, but your actions don’t match…”

“An idol’s concert is different, alright? Anyway, I’m off. Don’t forget to lock up.”

“Yeah, yeah. Have fun!”

With a thought of maybe picking up a cake on my way back, I head out.

The basement floor of the building. Down the stairs lies the live house. It holds about 100 people. The stage is raised about three steps, giving the audience a clear view.

Today, there are only 31 people in the audience, but plenty of cameras around. This exclusive concert will be available to fan club members in a week.

“Now, I’ll be singing my solo song, ‘Love Has Already Fallen.’”

“Wooooo!!”

In the midst of cheers and excitement, she performs confidently in a dazzling frilled outfit. Yes, that girl is none other than Shirayuki Yukino.

Today is Shirayuki’s birthday concert. This small live house is where the national idol made her debut.

Her long, well-kept white hair is tied in a ponytail instead of her usual two-sided-up style, and her sharp, blue eyes are stunning.

Ah, my favorite idol is as magnificent as ever…

Following the beat of the music, we cheer, wave our glow sticks and fans.

An idol’s concert always feels like it’s over in the blink of an eye…

“Thank you, everyone, for coming to the concert today!!”

Out of breath after the last song, Shirayuki clutches her chest as she thanks us. We’re all calling for an encore, but the host comes onstage to let us know the concert is really over.

“Now, we’d like to announce a special surprise for today—a handshake event!”

A joyful uproar erupts from the crowd. 

A handshake event typically allows only a few seconds per person. But this time, each fan would get a full minute. Isn’t that amazing? A whole minute to shake hands and chat with such a popular idol!

“To avoid any chaos, please proceed in order of your numbers!”

By the way, my number was 31—the very last. It’d be about 30 minutes before I’d get to shake hands with Shirayuki. After each fan's turn, they had to leave, so by the time my turn came, there’d be no fans left. The staff would likely be cleaning up, too. Could this be a chance to chat for more than a minute…?

Watching the fans line up and take turns shaking hands with Shirayuki, I sent Yuki a message: “I’ll be home soon.”

“Hm, no read receipt yet.”

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