Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 3 Chapter 1

The Sports Festival and Narika's Melancholy

"The sports festival is in three weeks."

Fukushima-sensei, Class A's homeroom teacher, told us.

"Please check the handbook you've been given for the events. Everyone must participate, so please decide what you're joining this week and register with me."

I flipped through my handbook while listening. This is really... an elaborate event. Even after the first class started, my mind was temporarily filled with thoughts of the sports festival.

◆

Then, it was lunch break. As usual, I was eating lunch with Hinako on the roof of the old student council building.

"A sports festival, huh..."

I muttered while eating a thick tamagoyaki.

"Your old high school... didn't have this...?"

"It did, but not on this scale."

I picked up some smoked duck with my chopsticks. And brought it to Hinako's mouth.

"Mmm... delicious."

She smiled sweetly, her eyes crinkling. If the chef heard that, they'd be ecstatic. I wanted to discuss it with Hinako, so I'd brought the sports festival handbook. I flipped through it on the floor.

"This school's field alone is huge, but they use even more facilities for the sports festival... Golf, equestrian, even ice skating."

Meaning, the campus has a golf course, a ranch, and an ice rink. And surprisingly, they aren't rented; they're school property. Just how much land does this school own...

"Itsuki, I want something sweet next..."

"Alright, alright."

I took a bite first to check. The shredded egg and pumpkin were sweet and good, but the sweetened black beans were especially delicious. I picked one up and brought it to Hinako's mouth.

"Mph~... delicious."

"Just eat the beans yourself."

"Nooo~..."

Feeding them one by one takes too much time. I thought, and then noticed a spoon next to the bento box. Since there's a spoon, I'll use it.

"I don't think... you need to worry so much."

Hinako said, chewing on the black beans.

"What do you mean?"

"Because the sports festival is pretty casual... a lot of people don't take it seriously."

Is that so. No, looking at the handbook, it does feel relaxed. It doesn't affect grades, so it's more about enjoying the atmosphere than winning. That made me relax a bit. Even with the festival, the school atmosphere probably won't change much.

"So you'll just take it easy too?"

"I'd like to... but I have to win."

Hearing that, my eyes widened.

"An order from Kagen-san?"

"Yeah... So laaazy~..."

Hinako flopped over, dejected. No matter how casual the event, winning must be tough.

"By the way, what about last time?"

"I won... It was exhausting."

She said, chewing on the shredded egg. I was shocked. I sometimes forget, but she really is a prodigy. Even among the elites at this school, her talent is exceptional.

(I can't completely deny Kagen-san's orders...)

She has so much talent, it would be a waste not to use it. I can understand a parent's feelings. Still, I'm on Hinako's side. I want to lighten her burden if I can.

"Which event are you doing?"

"Same as last year, tennis... It has a lot of participants, so winning gets more attention."

True, tennis probably has more entrants than golf or skating.

"Then I'll do tennis too."

"...Can you play?"

"I used to practice with a friend."

I was invited by a certain childhood friend and played a lot. That girl joined the tennis club, so I was sometimes forced to practice with her after school. Casually hitting the ball back and forth in the park under the setting sun... those were nostalgic days. It was a small park, so we couldn't run freely, and the ball always flew into the bushes, which was a pain. Now, if I play with Hinako and the others, we'll use a much bigger, cleaner facility. It's definitely convenient, and my past self would have been jealous, but the fact that my daily life has changed so completely also makes me a bit nostalgic.

Just then, I heard a vibration.

"Hinako, you have a call."

"...You're right."

Hinako took her phone from her skirt pocket. She answered and immediately put it on speaker.

"'Ojou-sama, do you have a moment?'

"Mhm."

Hinako nodded. The caller was Shizune-san.

'About the sports festival, we planned to hire a tennis coach as usual, but he sprained his ankle and can't work. We're looking for a replacement. Depending on the situation, you may need to enter a different event.'

Talk about timing, but it wasn't good news.

"Is there any chance I can skip...?"

"'No chance.'

"Ehh~..."

"'The sports festival is a perfect chance to show you excel at both academics and sports. I doubt Kagen-sama will compromise.'

Even if it doesn't affect grades, it's clearly an important event. If she wins, Hinako's "perfect ojou-sama" image will be even more solid.

"'Besides, getting some exercise is good for you. You've been enjoying your meals with Itsuki-kun so much lately, you seem to have put on a little weight—'

"Mmph!?"

Hinako suddenly made a weird noise. Because of that, I couldn't hear the rest of Shizune-san's sentence... What are they talking about? Hinako turned bright red and moved the phone away from me.

"'Ojou-sama?'

"I-Itsuki is here... so please don't talk about that..."

"'I see. In that case, you have even more reason to exercise.'

"Ngh, mmh... mph..."

She had a very complicated expression.

"'Itsuki-kun, are you there?'

Shizune-san called for me. Hinako handed me the phone.

"This is Itsuki."

"'Which event are you planning to enter?'

"I was planning to match Hinako..."

"'Understood. Please be careful not to overdo it and blow your cover.'

"...Right. I'll be careful."

I remembered what happened last month. My true identity was just discovered by Tennouji-san. Lots of students will be at the sports festival. If I act rashly in front of everyone, I could cause trouble for the Konohana family... for Hinako.

"'That said, your reflexes are good, so a normal sport should be fine. Just avoid things like equestrian.'

Even if you didn't say it, I would never join the equestrian event. I'm a little curious, but there's no need to try it at the sports festival. I ended the call with Shizune-san and gave Hinako her phone back.

"Hinako, what do you want to do?"

About the event, the coach, and so on. My question was about the festival arrangements, but for some reason, she was anxiously rubbing her stomach. She pinched the flesh at her waist, breaking out in a cold sweat.

"...Itsuki."

"Hm?"

"Lately... how do I look?"

I didn't understand what she was asking. So I just tilted my head, confused.

"Do I look... a little... rounder?"

Rounder? ...Oh, she means her figure.

"Now that you mention it, maybe a little fleshier."

"!"

But Hinako was so thin to begin with, this is just right... I thought, but Hinako looked devastated.

"...I'm going to win."

She said, clenching her fists.

"I... will win...!!"

"O-Okay."

I didn't get Hinako's sudden motivation, but motivation is a good thing. We finished lunch, packed the bento boxes, and headed back to the school building.

"Hinako, wait. You have a rice kernel on your mouth."

"Mngh..."

I wiped her mouth with my handkerchief. Hinako's "perfect ojou-sama" image nearly slipped. We started walking back.

(Still, the problem is which event to join. If Hinako has to win, tennis is her best bet...)

In that case, I'll join tennis too. I'm worried about what Shizune-san said, but I'd also rather do a sport I know. Can we find a replacement coach somehow?

"I-Itsuki...!!"

I was walking down the connecting corridor when someone suddenly called out. I turned my head and saw—

"Narika?"

A girl with her long, dark hair tied back was walking over.

"What's wrong? You look frantic."

"...Itsuki, did you hear about the sports festival?"

"Yeah, during homeroom this morning..."

At my answer, Narika grabbed my shoulders, her eyes teary.

"Itsuki, please!—Help me!"



◆

"You're afraid of the sports festival?"

I repeated Narika's words back to her. That's weird. In terms of pure athletic ability, she's on par with Hinako... No, Narika is without a doubt number one at Kiou Academy. But she's afraid of the sports festival.

"But, I was under the impression that Miyakojima-san was very athletic."

"Ah, n-yes, y-yes... that's true..."

Hinako voiced the same question I had. Narika nodded nervously.

"We've had tea parties and study sessions together. You don't need to be that nervous, do you?"

"Th-That part, I think I'm the normal one! Usually, everyone is this nervous in front of Konohana-san!"

She has a point. Since I know the real Hinako, I just can't get nervous.

"...Back to the topic."

Narika cleared her throat.

"Last year, I joined the kendo event at the sports festival."

Kendo, huh. Then she must have—

"You won, right? You're a martial arts expert."

"...Yeah. I won."

That should be something to be proud of, but she looked hesitant. Narika's family is Japan's largest sporting goods manufacturer, and she's been proficient in all kinds of sports since she was little, especially martial arts. Her family runs a dojo, so she's been taught various styles since she was a child. She's at a level where she wouldn't lose to anyone her age.

"I won... but it caused problems."

Narika lowered her gaze and explained.

"I guess I won too overwhelmingly, and it made everyone scared of me... Looking back, I feel like that victory was the trigger that turned me into a loner."

I see... No wonder she looked so glum about it.

"Well, I doubt that was the trigger. You've been a loner since way back."

"Th-Th-That's not true! I might have had... one or two friends...!"

That sounds like a "zero."

"A-Anyway, for me, the sports festival is a nightmare! That's why I'm scared... I just wanted to have fun with everyone. Why did it turn out like this...!"

Narika held her head. She seems really troubled.

(Still, even if she asks me to help...)

What can I even do?

"Anyway, why don't you just join something other than kendo this year?"

"...No. I have to do kendo this year, too. It was decided unanimously in homeroom... or, uh, unanimously by everyone except me."

She'd been crushed by peer pressure.

(So that's what this is about...)

Hearing about the peer pressure, I understood. The problem is that Narika doesn't have any close friends. If she were in our class, we could help... but that alone wouldn't solve the real issue. Thinking about the future, she needs to build connections beyond just us.

"...Alright."

I've known about Narika's troubles. I've been an attendant for almost three months. I have a little leeway. I want to help her.

"Narika, let's make you some friends before the sports festival. I'll help."

"R-Really!?"

Narika's eyes went wide. I nodded. "Really."

"In exchange, can you be mine and Konohana-san's tennis coach?"

She froze at my proposal.

◆

After school, I immediately told Shizune-san about hiring Narika as a coach.

"I see. That's an excellent idea."

Shizune-san agreed easily. She seems to acknowledge Narika's athletic ability. Her gym grades are famous even within Kiou Academy, so her reputation must have spread outside the school, too.

"Will Kagen-san allow it?"

"I don't think it will be a problem, though his feelings may be... complicated."

Complicated...?

"Because in the field of athletics, Narika Miyakojima-sama is far superior to the Ojou-sama. To build the 'perfect ojou-sama' image, she is a powerful rival who could stand in the Ojou-sama's way."

"...I see."

So, she's Hinako's rival. Tennouji-san is a rival in status and academics. Narika is a rival in sports.

(Narika is seen as a threat by Kagen-san... If she heard that, she'd probably faint.)

It's a compliment, in a way, but Narika would just be confused. In any case, it's official: Narika will be our coach. That said, Hinako won the tennis event last year, so she wasn't planning on spending much time practicing anyway. The coach is just to get her back into the swing of things. So, we decided to tackle Narika's problem first.

...The next day. During homeroom, Hinako and I reported our chosen events.

"Tomonari-kun and Konohana-san for tennis. Got it."

Fukushima-sensei checked our forms. Tennis has singles and doubles, but they're separated by gender. I can't team up with Hinako. So, we both chose singles. I don't have anyone to team up with, and Hinako probably finds singles less mentally taxing than doubles.

"Oh, Tomonari, you're doing tennis?"

Someone said from behind. Taisho and Asahi-san were standing there.

"Konohana-san did tennis last year, too."

"Yes."

Hinako replied to Asahi-san's comment with an elegant nod.

"What did you two pick?"

"I'm doing skiing."

"I'm doing dance."

They showed us their forms. Sure enough, "Skiing" and "Dance" were written on them.

"Guess I'm the only one in a different location."

Taisho said, sounding a bit disappointed. Tennis and dance are held on campus, but skiing apparently takes place far away in the mountains.

"By the way, can you ski this time of year?"

"It's a 'summer slope.' They lay down an artificial mat to ski on. It hurts when you fall, so you can't go too fast."

They have things like that...

"I'll be performing in the opening ceremony. If you have time, come watch!"

"I'm looking forward to it."

I heard the dance group performs at the opening ceremony. According to the handbook, they liven up the event every year with a "gorgeous and elegant" performance. Besides that, they also compete in teams. It sounds like a lot of work. The two of them went to submit their forms. After saying goodbye, we headed out of the classroom.

"Alright, let's go find Narika."

I usually go straight home, but from today, I'll be spending time with Narika after school. She should be in Class B, next door. I was about to head over... but first, I looked at Hinako.

"What about you? Are you heading home?"

"...I'll go too... I don't want a repeat of what happened with Tennouji-san..."

What happened with Tennouji-san? I tilted my head, but Hinako didn't elaborate.

"Especially... I have to be careful with Miyakojima-san."

"Careful? I don't think Narika is a threat to you..."

"...You're... different around her."

"Different?"

At my question, Hinako gave a mixed "Mhm." "You seem... natural."

"I don't really feel it... but I've known her since I was a kid, so it's easy to be around her."

Objectively, it wasn't an "easy" situation, but my state of mind was. Back then, I didn't think her family was a big deal, and I didn't really understand my own family's situation. Thinking back, it's kind of terrifying. In a way, I was pretty bold as a kid.

"..................Unfair."

Hinako whispered. I saw her pout, which only confused me more.

"My, Tomonari-kun and Konohana-san."

A girl with golden ringlets greeted us from the hallway.

"Tennouji-san, hello."

"Yes, hello."

Tennouji-san smiled gently. I feel like her expression is softer than it used to be. Her confidence is still there, but it's mixed with a new friendliness.

"Have you two decided on your events?"

She asked. The sports festival really is the hot topic.

"We're doing tennis. What about you?"

"I am competing in polo!"

She declared magnificently.

"Polo... that's the one on horseback, right?"

"Yes! To put it simply, it's like hockey on horseback."

That explanation was very easy to understand. The handbook also had a description. The polo shirt gets its name from the sport. You ride a horse, hit a ball with a mallet, and try to score goals.

"Polo is very intense. You run all over a huge field, so the players and the horses get tired. If you use the same horse, it gets overworked, so you have to switch horses mid-game."

"That sounds rough."

"Yes. And that's exactly what makes it a challenge."

Tennouji-san's eyes were burning with fighting spirit. She still loves to compete.

"What do you two say? It's a rare chance. Why not join me in polo? There's still time to change."

"...I appreciate the offer, but I've never even ridden a horse."

This is exactly the kind of thing Shizune-san warned me about.

I politely declined. She looked a little shy.

"In that case... um... I-I could... graciously teach you!"

She said, a faint blush on her cheeks.

"You're a positive person, so you can learn anything. A little horseback riding... I... I will teach you, h-hand-in-hand!"

It would probably be just like when she taught me to dance. Or when she taught me table manners. She'd be incredibly thorough. It would... actually be a fulfilling way to spend my days. For a second, I forgot my objective and just imagined it. But—

"I'm afraid we must decline."

Hinako refused politely on my behalf. Tennouji-san's eyes widened, then she nodded.

"I see. Well, even if it's just Tomonari-kun—"

"I'm afraid we must decline."

Hinako cut her off, her voice firm. She hadn't just refused for herself. She refused for me, too. A vein throbbed on Tennouji-san's temple.

"Konohana-san, I was asking Tomonari-kun..."

"Because Tomonari-kun is doing tennis with me."

Hinako said, smiling elegantly. That made Tennouji-san's expression stiffen.

"With you?"

"Yes, with me. We decided together."

Hinako maintained her high-class smile the entire time. Her acting was perfect; not a ripple of emotion showed. But... why did it feel like she was trying to "check" Tennouji-san?

"Hehe, hehehe... It seems I have yet another thing to defeat you in...!!"

Tennouji-san said, veins popping. But, in the end, her reason won out.

"...I'll let you go this time. I have a duty to lead my polo team to victory."

She said, frustrated. Are there too many people around me obsessed with winning...?

"By the way, where are you two headed?"

"Uh, Narika needed to talk about something..."

It's personal, so I kept it vague.

"If you have a problem, you can come to me, you know."

She said, hand on her chest in an elegant pose.

"I'd like to... but you're probably not suited for this."

"Not suited?"

Tennouji-san's eyebrow twitched.

"There is nothing in this world I am not suited for!"

"...Okay, for example. If someone was having trouble making friends, what would you advise?"

"That's simple! You just ask them to be your friend!"

"...Uh, we'll be going now."

"Tomonari-kun!?"

Tennouji-san stared as I left, as if to say, "Why!?" Her communication skills are off the charts, which is a strength, but it makes it hard for her to sympathize with Narika's problem.

I walked with Hinako to Class B.

"It's... Konohana-san..."

"What's she doing in our class...?"

The class started murmuring. Hinako doesn't usually visit Class B, so they were surprised. If we stay long, we'll be surrounded. I spotted Narika packing her textbook in a corner and waved silently.

"Itsuki!"

Narika's eyes lit up, and she walked over.

"Miyakojima-san... is talking to someone!?"

"And who's Itsuki...?"

This made the class even more confused. She's so isolated that just talking to someone is a shock... Anyway, we'd successfully met up. We left immediately. I was getting uncomfortable from all the stares, probably because she'd called me by my first name. Hinako gave the class a slight bow, which seemed to stun them into silence.

"Alright, let's start."

We gathered at a garden table in a quiet area. It was July. The weather was starting to get hot. We weren't planning to talk long, so I hadn't prepared tea, but it was hotter than I expected. Just as I was thinking that, drinks were placed on our table. I looked over and saw a staff member from the school cafe.

"Uh, we didn't order..."

"It's on the house."

The service here is like a high-end resort. Before I knew it, utensils were set down, and the staffer neatly arranged a few cookies. We thanked him as he left. Kiou Academy never ceases to amaze me. I moistened my throat with the iced tea and let out a breath.

"Then, let's officially begin—"

I looked at the two of them and announced:

"Operation: Make Narika Not a Loner."

"O-Oh~!"

Narika clenched her fists, full of spirit. Hinako, next to her, just smiled softly.

"You're supposed to say 'Oh~,' fufu."

She said shyly, making a tiny, tentative fist.

 


The gap was incredible. Narika and I both froze for a second, hit by the unexpected cuteness. What was that adorable gesture?

"Ngh...!? So this is the power of the most popular girl in school...!"

Narika muttered, looking utterly defeated by the pinnacle of the school hierarchy. Honestly, I was pretty taken aback, too. Hinako can play the "perfect ojou-sama" and be elegant, but she can also read the room and be approachable. She's never stuck-up. That's why she's loved by everyone.

"First, let's assess your situation... Can you tell us?"

"O-Okay. But I think I've told you everything... there's not much else..."

Narika paused, then began.

"First, besides you... you two... I have no friends."

She stated the sad truth. She hesitated because she was wondering if she could count Hinako, but figured it would be rude not to.

"Next, when I try to talk to people, they keep their distance."

An even sadder truth.

"Not only that, even if I do nothing, I scare people. I was just walking normally, and when people noticed me, they parted like the Red Sea..."

"Okay, okay... Narika, that's enough..."

"Uu... uwahhhh."

She looked like she was about to cry.

"Why is this happening... You're not being bullied, are you?"

"I-I don't think so... but I feel like I'm deeply misunderstood."

Well, if she says she's not, we'll believe her for now. Since that was subjective, I looked to Hinako.

"Konohana-san, what's your impression of Narika?"

I had to be careful with my words, since Narika was right here. Hinako, in ojou-sama mode, thought for a moment.

"Let's see..."

"She's in the next class, so I don't know the details... but I have heard rumors that Miyakojima-san is scary."

"Ngh."

Narika looked crushed. When I first saw her at this school, her expression was really stiff. The problem is definitely her expression.

"Narika, can you try to smile?"

Come to think of it, she rarely smiles in front of people. She smiles at me sometimes... If others saw it, their impression would change. I suggested it—

"L-Like this?"

She produced an extremely awkward smile. It looked like a final boss glaring at me.

"That's terrifying."

"Don't say that—!! If you're saying it, I'm doomed!!"

I couldn't help but be honest. Narika held her head.

"You've got bad luck, but you're also part of the problem... We have to fix this habit of your face getting scary when you're nervous."

"Uu... but how...?"

If I knew that, I wouldn't be struggling. In the end, she just needs to make friends she can relax around, like us. When she's with strangers, she tenses up. So, if we reduce the number of "strangers," she should feel more at ease.

"Let's brainstorm some ways to get to know people. For example—"

We all offered ideas. I gave some, and Hinako gave some. We picked a few that Narika seemed suited for.

"...Okay, we have a few options."

We settled on three plans. They weren't "plans" so much as "things that require courage." But they were all worth a shot.

"Let's start tomorrow."

"T-Tomorrow!? W-Wait! I'm not mentally prepared...!"

"We don't have much time before the sports festival. You can't hesitate."

She couldn't argue. She must be worried. I get it—I'm not perfect, either. When I first became Hinako's attendant, I was a wreck. Back then... what would have made me feel better?

"...Narika."

I said, trying to empathize with her anxiety.

"We'll do this together."

"............Together."

She repeated my word.

"...Right. I... have you with me."

She said, as if convincing herself. And then—

"I'll do my best...!!"

Narika's resolve was set.

◆

The next day, after school. The three of us met near Class B.

"Just to be safe, let's review the plan."

Narika and Hinako nodded. The setting sun was dyeing the town orange. It was 30 minutes after school, and the building was emptying. With fewer people, it should be less pressure.

"Plan 1: Host, or join, a study group."

I explained yesterday's plan.

"A lot of people come to study groups, so it's good for meeting people. And we just had one, so it should be easy for you to picture."

Narika nodded. She should be able to handle it. I made friends with Tennouji-san, Asahi-san, and Taisho at that study group. It's a proven method.

"But hosting is hard, so this time, just join one. Lucky for you, your class already has one, right?"

"Yeah. I think there are three people who stay after school to study."

Class B is serious, too.

"You're surprisingly observant."

"............Because I was jealous they were hanging out."

"............I see."

The more I ask, the sadder it gets. I'll invite her to the tea party later.

"Okay, all you have to do is join them."

"I-I'm getting nervous..."

"Don't. Your face gets scary."

"W-Wait... let me calm down...!!"

Narika took deep breaths. Her trembling subsided a bit.

"I-I'm going...!!"

She stepped into the classroom. Hinako and I peeked in from the hall. Narika is bad at conversation, but Kiou Academy students are diligent. As long as she shows she's serious about studying, they should connect. Three students were at desks pushed together in a corner. Narika walked over—

"U-Um!!"

She completely fumbled her words. She was also way too loud. The three students jumped. I couldn't see Narika's face, but from the side... she looked tense.

(She messed up and got nervous...)

Her ears were red, but her expression was ferocious. A bad start.

"M-Miyakojima-san...? Wh-What is it?"

"Th-That is..."

Narika tried to answer the girl. But she was struggling.

"Ah!? I-Is this your seat...!?"

"Eek!? S-S-Sorry! We'll move!"

The students scrambled to stand up.

"N-No! That's not it!"

Narika waved her hands frantically. Right, good.

"Um, are you guys studying?"

"Eh?... Y-Yes, we are..."

"C-Can I... join you?"

Nice—! I pumped my fist. I'm starting to feel like a dad at his kid's sports day. The three students conferred.

"Wh-What do we do...? Miyakojima-san wants to study with us. Is that okay?"

"If she's here, she could probably teach us a lot..."

"True..."

It seemed like they were going to accept her. However—

"Ah, n-no, um... My grades... aren't good enough to teach..."

"Huh?"

The three students stared at Narika, dumbfounded.

"Uh, er, we're kind of... studying to get a high rank on the next test..."

They didn't mean any harm by it. If she was motivated, it should be fine. They just meant they weren't here to slack off. So, all she had to do was show she was serious.

"I............ I'll be going!"

Narika fled the classroom, sweating. She met my eyes in the hallway.

"Itsuki~...!!"

She pleaded.

"Why... Why does everyone think I'm smart...?"

"I feel like that's better than them thinking you're dumb... but this is unexpected."

Even if she pretended, they'd find out immediately. Just asking had taken all her courage. She didn't have the capacity to clear up the misunderstanding.

(...Come to think of it, we didn't know her grades were average at first, either.)

At our first study session, everyone else was surprised, too. People have this preconceived notion of her, so no one knows the real Narika.

"Don't worry. We'll try the next plan tomorrow."

I consoled the teary-eyed Narika.

Plan 1—Failure.

◆

The next day, we met on campus again. This time, in the morning, before class.

"Plan 2: The Image Makeover."

A simple plan. Narika nodded.

(This was an idea I got from watching Hinako, though...)

I glanced at Hinako. Our eyes met.

"What is it?"

"...Nothing."

Ojou-sama-mode Hinako tilted her head cutely. If even Hinako, who's so lazy in private, can become the school idol, this should work. Hinako is a master of the image change.

"The goal is to reduce your 'keep away' aura. To do that, we need to aim for the opposite of 'strict' or 'serious.'"

"I get the logic..."

Narika looked troubled.

"...This is late, but am I really that scary?"

"Hmm... You're natural around us."

Honestly, I don't really feel it. I know objectively her face is scary, but I've known her since we were kids, so I'm not afraid of her.

"Let's run an experiment."

"Experiment?"

Narika asked. I nodded.

"We have time. Let's step off campus."

I said, and the three of us left the school grounds. The Konohana servants are always nearby on the commute, so we can't go far. I saw some elementary school kids at a crosswalk.

(...They'll do.)

I approached them.

"Hey, can I ask you something?"

The kids turned.

"What~?"

"Hey, aren't we supposed to not talk to strangers...?"

"Ah, I know! That uniform is from that super-rich school!"

"Kiou Academy!"

It seems Kiou Academy is famous even among kids.

"I have a question for you."

I crouched down to their eye level.

"This big sister here..."

I pointed to Narika, then pulled a photo from my pocket.

"Compared to this yakuza boss... who's scarier?"

"H-Hey, Itsuki, why do you have a photo of a yakuza!?"

"He caused some trouble for the Konohana Group a while back. He was in the files."

The photo was of a grim-faced man with a scar. Normally, the yakuza boss should be scarier. The kids looked back and forth.

"...Narika, smile a little."

We need to compare her to how she'd be at school. Narika forced an awkward smile.

"Heh... hehe..."

When the kids saw it, their faces went pale.

""The big sister is scarier!!""

"Uwaaah...! I'm just going to go die...!!"

The kids ran away. Narika collapsed to the ground.

"Do you see the importance of a makeover now?"

"...Yes. Just do whatever you want."

She was still in shock.

"Then, I'll leave it to Konohana-san."

"Understood."

Hinako nodded. This involves more than just hair, so having a girl help is best.

"Narika, you wanted to wear your uniform loosely, like Asahi-san, right?"

"Y-Yeah. I've always admired that. My family is strict, so it looks so fresh... Asahi-san has a lot of friends, so I wanted to copy her."

Narika said, embarrassed. Kiou Academy has almost no dress code. The school trusts its students. Asahi-san is a rare case, but she's not breaking any rules. She just wears a colored shirt or small accessories.

"But going too flashy will just scare people more. Let's just change it a little."

"R-Right. I agree."

We went back to school. Narika and Hinako went into a changing room. After ten minutes, they came out.

"H-How... is it...?"

Narika asked, showing me her new look. Her blazer was unbuttoned. Her skirt was a little shorter. Her shirt was untucked, with the top and bottom buttons undone. She had a pink bracelet on. The color didn't really suit her, but that was part of the makeover. It was an elegant design, so it wasn't too loud.

"...It's amazing how much a few small changes make."

She looked like a low-key gyaru. Her hair was just tied back a little more loosely. This shouldn't look "delinquent."

"Narika, how do you feel?"

"I-My heart's pounding... but I can handle this."

It seemed to be within her "embarrassment" limit.

"But, is it okay for my chest to be this open? I feel like I might flash..."

Narika tugged at her collar.

"Hey—"

I got a glimpse of her underwear and quickly looked away. She has no sense of guard...

"...Button the top button."

"Eh?... Ah!?"

Narika realized and quickly covered her chest. Awkward... As she fumbled with the button—

"Ouch!?"

Hinako suddenly kicked me in the shin.

"Um, Konohana-san...?"

"Sorry. My foot slipped."

"R-Right..."

The ojou-sama is furious. That smile is terrifying.

"O-Okay! Now I just have to go to class...!"

Narika was fired up.

"We can't go with you. You're on your own."

"R-Right! I'll make it work this time!"

She headed to class. It's not far. In a few minutes, everyone would see her new look.

"...Itsuki."

Hinako asked.

"Do you... like that look?"

"Huh?"

I wasn't sure what she meant.

"I don't... dislike it... For me, who went to a normal school, I'm just more used to that relaxed style."

"...Oh~"

At Kiou Academy, everyone buttons their top button. That was rare at my old school. As I was reminiscing—

"...I'll try that next time."

"Huh."

I don't know what sparked it, but Hinako muttered that. Kagen-san would probably yell... but I kind of want to see it. We headed to class. I was halfway through copying notes when the bell rang.

(Class is over... Let's check on Narika.)

I glanced at Hinako. Our eyes met. We slipped out and peeked into Class B. Narika was...

"...Huh? She's not here."

I couldn't see her. I had no choice but to ask a student.

"Excuse me, is Miyakojima-san here?"

"Miyakojima-san... uh, she... got called to the guidance office."

"...Guidance office?"

I had a bad feeling. We hurried over. I was wondering if I should knock, but the door opened. Narika was on the other side.

"N-Narika, what happened to you...?"

She looked... different. Her hair was a mess, and her shirt was wrinkled. And... she had scrapes on her arms and knees. When did that happen?

"...After I left you, I was so nervous I tripped on my way to class. I didn't realize... but I ended up looking like this."

So the scrapes are from falling...

(She looks exactly like a delinquent after a fight...)

I should have walked her all the way to the door. I put my hand to my forehead. No wonder she was called in.

"The teacher asked me... who I got in a fight with."

Narika said, tearing up.

"He said that 'extortion' is a crime in this country."

"..."

"He asked me what injuries I gave the other person so he could... estimate their medical bills."

"..."

"And even if I did fight... why did they assume I won...?"

Because you look like you could take on the world...

"...Let's move on to the next plan."

Plan 2—Failure.

◆

The next morning. We met again before homeroom.

"Plan 3: The 'Commoner' Vibe. Show you're approachable."

We were meeting in a shady, inconspicuous corner.

"Basically, we need to show you're a normal person. The 'militant' and 'cold' labels are stuck to you."

"But... we didn't really plan this one..."

"Yeah. We just need to soften your image..."

Unlike 1 and 2, Plan 3 had no concrete steps. I tried to think. This time, we'd use actions, not looks.

"Something easy to understand is best. Reading manga in class, or talking about a TV show..."

"...I don't really read manga or watch TV."

Okay, something else. Even if she faked it and made friends, she couldn't maintain it.

"...Snacks."

Hinako whispered.

"Eating snacks? I guess that's approachable."

"...I see."

That's a good idea. It's not "delinquent," but it softens her sharp aura.

"Itsuki, I have a great idea!"

Narika suddenly said.

"Great idea?"

"Junk food!"

She said, confidently.

"I told you before, I kept going to the dagashi shop even after we parted ways! When it comes to junk food, I'm more confident than most!"

She was motivated. I have to admire her spirit.

"...Come to think of it, there's a dagashi shop near the school."

I remembered the shop I saw on the way. The customers are local kids, not Kiou students, but we could use it.

"After school, what if I eat snacks on the way home? Someone might talk to me!"

"Just eating snacks... and someone will talk to you..."

I doubted it, but then reconsidered.

"No... if there's someone else like you, they might."

A Kiou student and junk food. It's a rare combo. But there must be one or two. Because it's a rare hobby, the bond is stronger.

(Well, even if no one talks to her, it makes her look more approachable.)

If it goes well, she could make a good friend. If not, it might at least change her image a little. It's worth a try.

"Let's try it."

"Okay! Let's meet after school!"

Narika marched off, full of "this time I'll succeed" spirit.

"Hinako, thanks for the idea."

"...Mhm."

Hinako nodded. This is the first time I've done something with ojou-sama-mode Hinako. She usually just wants to go home.

"Sorry to drag you into this. You don't have to stay."

"...It's fine. I'll help."

She shook her head.

"It's fun being with you. And..."

"...And?"

She hesitated.

"...You're... surprisingly... a flirt... so I have to watch you."

"What."

I feel like I'm being misunderstood. But Hinako wouldn't explain.

◆

School ended.

"F-Finally. The plan starts."

Narika said nervously.

"We'll watch from here."

"R-Right... I'm off!"

Narika walked stiffly toward the dagashi shop. We have an hour. It would be great if she made some progress... Narika bought her snacks and started eating on the sidewalk.

(This... looks super weird...)

A high school girl, eating junk food alone after school. I was worried she'd look like a delinquent, but she was holding an Umaibo with both hands and nibbling it like a hamster. Definitely not delinquent. Kiou Academy students started to notice her. Most students are picked up by car, but parking is limited... Hinako and Tennouji-san get to park by the gate, but other students... (myself included, technically) ...walk a bit. Narika was spotted, but...

"No one... is talking to her."

"You're right."

Just as Hinako said. Just silently eating snacks isn't enough to bridge the gap. Still, I wasn't that disappointed.

(If the goal is to change her image, this is fine... Just being seen is a success, right?)

To kids who know her, this must be a rare sight. Bit by bit, her image should change. No need to rush.

(Is that a Chupa Chups... I haven't had one of those in ages.)

Narika must have gotten tired of salty snacks, because she was licking a lollipop. She held the white stick, eagerly waiting. Let's just watch. As I was thinking that—

"M-Miyakojima-san...?"

A passing female student saw Narika, and her bag dropped to the ground. Narika turned, confused. The student was panicking.

"Is that... a c-cigarette...?"

"Huh?"

The student pointed at the white stick in Narika's mouth.

"W-Wait! No! It's not a cigarette!"

Narika took the lollipop out.

"It's a Chupa Chups!"

"E-Even if you tell me the brand name, I wouldn't know..."

"No, I said it's not a cigarette!!"

"Not a cigarette...? Then... is it... drugs...!?"

What a leap in logic. This school has some weird ojou-samas... I thought, escaping reality.

"It's candy!"

"Candy... is that code? I-I didn't hear anything!"

"Ah!? Wait!!"

The student scrambled away.

(Come to think of it, there's a rumor her family is yakuza...)

That must be it. In any case—this is bad. Narika is going to be mistaken for a drug dealer selling "candy."

"...I'll go clear this up."

I ran after the student. Because she was running, I had to run. She thought I was attacking her and ran faster. I finally caught her, explained, and cleared up the misunderstanding. When I got back, Narika was squatting on the ground, defeated.

"........................Is it... my fault?"

I didn't know what to say.

"...Honestly, I underestimated this."

I said, catching my breath.

"I didn't realize your image was this bad..."

"Don't say it..."

She groaned, holding her head. This... is tougher than I thought.

◆

We left the scene. The three of us went back to campus, the mood heavy.

"Conclusion: all three plans failed..."

I sighed.

"...What do we do?"

What do we do? I'm not out of ideas, but this was a disaster. I was stumped.

"It's weird for me to say this, since I'm the one who asked... but don't worry about it. I'm not that bothered."

I looked at Narika, surprised.

"...You're surprisingly positive."

"Heh. I'm used to failure. Hehe... hehehe."

She's clearly forcing it.

"Honestly, if it could be solved in a few days, I wouldn't have been this worried. So, I'm sad, but this is... within my expectations."

I see. That's how she's staying positive.

"...If you're not upset, then I don't need to be, either."

If she's motivated, I shouldn't mope.

"Failure is the mother of success. Today is Friday. Let's all come up with new ideas for Monday."

Narika and Hinako nodded.

"By the way, Itsuki, when should I coach you in tennis?"

"Whenever you're free..."

I said, glancing at Hinako. She nodded. We'd discussed this. But Narika wouldn't have it.

"I want to repay you."

"Repay us... for what? We haven't gotten any results."

"No. If it were just me, I'd be stuck. You've already helped me plenty."

She said, smiling brightly. ...If only she could smile like that for other people. It's such a waste. Narika is such a genuine girl.

"Tomorrow's a holiday. Are you free? If you are, I can teach you."

I met Hinako's eyes. She shouldn't have any plans.

"Then, please."

"Okay!"

Narika puffed out her chest.

"This time, it's my area of expertise! You can look forward to it!!"

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