My Eccentric Harem

Reaching the halfway point in Albedo's affection level felt like a milestone for Aoyama. She was no longer the cold, disdainful being she had been when she first arrived. Her walls were coming down, little by little, revealing someone searching for meaning in a world that wasn't her own. But he knew there was still a long way to go.

---

One evening, Aoyama found Albedo standing in front of the painting she had created days ago, her golden eyes fixed on the swirling storm she had captured on the canvas. She seemed lost in thought, her expression unreadable.

"Still thinking about it?" Aoyama asked, stepping into the room.

Albedo glanced at him, her gaze softening slightly. "This painting... it feels incomplete."

Aoyama tilted his head. "What do you mean? It looks great to me."

"It's not about how it looks," Albedo said quietly. "It's about what it means. The storm... that's me. But the light breaking through it? I'm not sure what that is yet."

Aoyama felt a lump form in his throat. "Maybe it's hope," he suggested. "Or... a new beginning."

Albedo turned to him, her golden eyes searching his face. "Hope," she repeated, almost as if testing the word. "It's a strange concept."

"It's not easy to hold onto," Aoyama admitted. "But it's worth it."

For a moment, they stood in silence, the weight of their unspoken thoughts filling the space. Then Albedo smiled faintly—a small, fragile smile that made Aoyama's chest tighten.

"Perhaps you're right," she said softly.

---

The next day, Aqua decided it was time to "lighten the mood" in their strange household. She dragged Aoyama and Albedo to a nearby festival, claiming it would be "good for bonding."

"This is ridiculous," Albedo muttered as they walked through the bustling streets lined with colorful stalls. Her wings were hidden, as usual, thanks to the system's magical disguise.

"Come on," Aqua said, grinning as she grabbed a stick of cotton candy. "Don't tell me you're too proud to enjoy this."

"I am not 'too proud,'" Albedo retorted, her eyes narrowing. "I simply fail to see the appeal."

"Then try something," Aoyama said, handing her a small skewer of grilled chicken from one of the food stalls.

Albedo hesitated, her pride clearly at war with her curiosity. Finally, she took a cautious bite—and her golden eyes widened in surprise.

"It's... good," she admitted grudgingly.

Aoyama smirked. "See? Told you."

Aqua burst out laughing. "Who knew grilled chicken could humble the great Albedo?"

"Do not test me, goddess," Albedo said, though her tone lacked its usual edge.

---

As the evening went on, they found themselves standing near a game booth where people were trying—and failing—to win stuffed animals. Aqua immediately challenged Aoyama to a contest.

"I'll win that dolphin plush for you," Aqua declared, pointing at a prize on the top shelf.

"I don't need another dolphin," Aoyama said, rolling his eyes. "But knock yourself out."

Aqua tried—and failed—repeatedly, much to Aoyama's amusement. Finally, Albedo stepped forward, her golden eyes gleaming with determination.

"Allow me," she said, taking the ring from the booth attendant.

Aoyama and Aqua watched in surprise as Albedo threw the ring with perfect precision, landing it on the target in one smooth motion. The attendant handed her the top prize—a large, fluffy lion plush.

"Impressive," Aoyama said, genuinely impressed. "Who's it for?"

Albedo hesitated, then handed the plush to Aoyama. "For you."

Aoyama blinked, stunned. "Me?"

"You deserve something for putting up with us," Albedo said, her voice quiet but sincere.

Aoyama smiled, his chest warming. "Thanks, Albedo."

---

That night, as they walked home, the air between them felt lighter. Aqua was still teasing Albedo about her unexpected skill at carnival games, but even Albedo seemed amused.

"You're not so bad," Aqua said, smirking. "For a 'mere NPC.'"

"And you're tolerable," Albedo replied, though there was a faint smile on her lips.

Aoyama chuckled, glancing at the two of them. For the first time, it felt like they were more than just a collection of personalities thrown together by the system. They were starting to feel like... a team.

---

Later that night, the system updated.

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Name: Albedo

Affection Level: 65/100

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"Sixty-five," Aoyama murmured, staring at the screen. "We're really making progress."

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To Be Continued...