Artist's commentary
The next day, getting out of bed and eating breakfast as usual
I told Futo-chan that Youmu would be coming over to cook some food. "Oh, the Yo... Lady Youmu that you introduced the other day?" she asked. "Yep, that Youmu." "I see, I see. It sounds enjoyable. I wish to converse with my lord's friends," she boasted cheerfully. It seems she had accepted Youmu. That's good. That night, Youmu and I met along our usual route. Youmu was holding a big bag in each of her hands. They appeared to contain many ingredients and utensils. That was just like her. When she wants to make a feast, she really goes all out. It seems this time was no different... though I would have been satisfied with much less. I began to apologize, to which she replied, "No, cooking is somewhat of a hobby for me. It makes me really happy when people eat something I've put a lot of effort in to," she explained with a smile. I thanked her and took one of her bags (I offered to take the other, but she declined). "I hope you look forward to the meal," she giggled as we walked back to my house, shoulders in line.
"Welcome home, my lord. Is Lady Youmu with you as well? Please, come in," Futo-chan greeted us as soon as we walked in. "...Yes. Pardon my intrusion," she said, thanking us both as she entered. Looking around, she said, "Wow, this place is pretty tidy." "Yeah, Futo-chan cleans up while I'm gone." "I am only doing the obvious thing to do," Futo-chan added in with a smug grin and a triumphant puff of air. "Ehh, is that so? Ehhh..." Youmu uttered in an air-headed tone while looking around my room. Then, Futo-chan's stomach let out a growl. "Ah... I apologize. After hearing that Lady Youmu was coming to cook a meal, I held out on lunch..." she said with a red face. "It doesn't take long, so I'll make it now," Youmu giggled. "I'll just borrow your kitchen for a bit. You two stay here and take it easy," as she left for the kitchen. "Oh, Lady Youmu. I shall help however I can," Futo-chan called out as she went in after her. I heard their voices coming from the kitchen: "My lady..." "I'm fine. Go back and wait with him." "...Well, can you manage the preparations?" "Leave it to me!" They sounded like they were getting along. It seems it was a good thing that I introduced her to Youmu... to be continued