Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 3 Chapter 2

A Day for Tennis

The next day at noon. I, Hinako, and Shizune-san left the mansion. After an hour's drive, we arrived at a large lodging facility in the mountains.

"It's huge."

Five minutes after getting out of the car, I saw a large number of tennis courts. There were twelve courts in total: two clay, two hard, and the remaining eight artificial grass.

"This is one of the lodging facilities owned by the Konohana Group. It's currently closed for renovations, but the courts aren't affected and are usable."

Since it was under renovation, there were no other guests. We had the entire spacious area to ourselves.

"Miyakojima-san has arrived."

A black car pulled into the parking lot. Narika and her family's servant got out. She noticed us immediately and walked over.

"Narika, we're counting on you today."

"Right! Please take care of me!"

Narika was full of confidence today. She had a tennis bag on her back and was carrying bags in both hands.

"You have a lot of luggage."

"Since Konohana-san arranged the court, I brought the equipment. Rackets, balls, and just in case, grip tape and strings. It's all our latest merchandise, so I'm confident in the performance... I brought uniforms and shoes, too!"

She said, pulling three sets of tennis uniforms from her bag. Narika's family is Japan's largest sporting goods manufacturer. Their product quality is trustworthy. I decided to use the gear Narika provided.

"The changing room is over there."

Shizune-san guided us. I immediately changed into the uniform Narika gave me.

"Whoa... it's so light."

Kiou Academy's gym uniform is high quality, but this uniform from Narika was even more high-end. In summer, you really notice breathability, and the comfort was outstanding. The shoes were also light and easy to move in.

"Itsuki-san, are you finished changing?"

Just as I finished, Shizune-san's voice came from the entrance. I was a bit surprised, but replied, "Yes."

When I came out of the changing room, she was waiting.

"Your collar is crooked."

"Ah, sorry..."

I was so impressed by the comfort that I'd forgotten to check my appearance. I reflected internally as Shizune-san fixed my collar.

"By the way, Itsuki-san, do you know the level of the sports festival?"

She asked suddenly.

"I heard it's a pretty casual event."

"Yes, but that's just the students' subjective opinion."

What does that mean?

"Kiou Academy students focus on sports, not just studies. Many of their families sponsor corporate teams, so they're proficient in sports from a young age, not just business. I hear many of them practice with those corporate teams."

It means that if your family owns a corporate team, you have more opportunities to learn and play. I've come to understand something recently. Kiou Academy students aren't talented just because they're diligent; it's because they have more opportunities to actively engage with academics and sports. They have more chances to meet respected figures in society—presidents, secretaries, artisans, or corporate athletes. They don't lack for role models. The students of Kiou Academy grow up in a treasure trove of self-improvement. And Hinako and Narika are at the very top of that group. I realized again just how amazing they both are.

"It may be 'casual,' but it's probably far more competitive than you imagine... I think keeping up with those two will be hard, but please do your best."

"...Yes."

I tensed my nerves. It's fine. I've been at Kiou Academy for almost three months. I'm used to making up for my shortcomings with effort.

(They... aren't here yet.)

I got to the court first. I waited for them, checking the feel of the racket.

"Sorry to keep you waiting."

A moment later, Hinako and Narika arrived. They were both in their tennis uniforms. Hinako wore a white top and a pink tennis skirt. Narika wore a blue top and a grey tennis skirt. They both looked so refreshingly different that it left me speechless.

Should I say "it suits you"? But it's a uniform, not casual clothes. It might sound like harassment. As I was worrying—

"Tomonari-kun, what's wrong?"

Hinako asked.

"Uh... the uniform looks good on you."

Hearing that, Hinako smiled sweetly.

"Itsuki! What about me!? What about me!?"

Narika chimed in.

"It looks good on you, too."

"...That felt a little half-hearted."

"You're imagining things."

What do you want? It's embarrassing to say it seriously.

"But Konohana-san looks stylish in everything..."

"Thank you."

Hinako accepted Narika's compliment, clearly used to them. Besides the uniform, Hinako also had her hair up in a high ponytail. This simple change had a charm completely different from her usual look. She's a natural beauty, after all.

After that, we stretched and warmed up. Hinako and Narika are both heiresses. Not only are their attendants sensitive to injuries, but the girls themselves are very careful, so they warmed up thoroughly.

"Konohana-san won last year, but Itsuki, what's your level?"

Narika asked after we finished.

"I can just rally a bit."

My old high school was supposed to start tennis in our second year, but I was forced to transfer here before that, so I've never had formal lessons.

"Then let's start with a three-person rally. After that, we'll practice serves and returns."

Narika said, moving to the other side of the court. Hinako and I (three balls each) rallied with Narika. She handled both of us at the same time calmly.

"Itsuki! You can hit it a little harder!"

"Okay!"

I followed the instructions from Narika on the other side. But when I tried to hit harder, the ball went out or hit the net.

"Hinako, your turn."

"...Mhm."

Narika was too far away to hear us, so I spoke to Hinako in my normal tone.

"I'm going to... show you my cool side today."

Hinako said, and began rallying with Narika.

(They're both... amazing.)

Putting Narika aside, Hinako was also incredibly skilled. I couldn't understand how her tiny body could produce such fast shots. She must be hitting the sweet spot perfectly. She didn't win last year's tournament for nothing.

"Itsuki... your turn."

My turn. I took the ball from Hinako and asked something that popped into my head.

"I think this in PE sometimes, but you're really good at sports, aren't you."

"It's tiring, so I don't really like it..."

She said, like a true prodigy.

"But right now... I need to cut fat..."

"Huh?"

"...Nothing."

I felt like she said something, but she clammed up. We continued rallying for about thirty minutes.

"Ah, it hit the net."

The ball was stuck. There was a basket, but it's a pain to get a new ball every time. I walked up to get it. Narika must have had the same idea and approached the net.

"You're better than I expected."

She said, picking up the ball.

"At this rate, you should be in good shape by the tournament."

"That's good... Is there anything I need to fix?"

"I'll give you feedback after we're done. It's more efficient to assess everything first before deciding what to fix."

Her advice was so sound I was impressed.

(...She's so reliable.)

I remembered when I first met Narika at age ten. That day, I, who was living at the Miyakojima house, ran into her in the dojo as she was swinging a bamboo sword. I've never told Narika this... but I was mesmerized. I had never seen anyone so completely absorbed in something. When Narika focuses on sports, she's imposing and incredibly cool. More than five years have passed... and here she was, sweating in front of me, radiating that same clear, intense aura.

"...By the way, Narika, are we not using the dirt courts over there?"

I asked, trying to cover my slight agitation.

"Right. The sports festival only uses artificial grass, so I'm not planning to use them."

We looked at the other courts.

"By the way, the dirt court is called a clay court. The surface is uneven, so the ball takes irregular bounces. Conversely, the hard court next to it is flat and predictable. And this artificial grass we're on has sand mixed in. It's predictable, but a little slippery."

"Oh..."

I nodded along to her easy-to-understand explanation. I lightly scraped the ground. The artificial grass was indeed flat, soft, and a bit slippery. My old high school had an artificial grass field; it felt like that. The hard court was probably like a gym floor. Predictable, but seems rough on the legs.

"You know a lot. As expected of the sporting goods store daughter."

"R-Really? You can ask me anything!"

Narika puffed out her chest, proud.

"Next is serve-and-return practice, then volleys, and after that I'll give you some simple advice."

"Okay, thank you."

◆

After another hour of practice.

"Let's take a small break."

Narika came over, racket in hand. After an hour and a half, she also looked tired. But I was sweating far more than she was.

"Itsuki, are you okay?"

"Yeah... barely."

The sweat wouldn't stop. I've been building my stamina since becoming Hinako's attendant... but I still can't match Narika.

"Itsuki, your weakness is shot placement. You unconsciously hit it to the center. You need to spread it to the corners... The reason you're so tired is because I'm hitting to the corners. Conversely, the reason I'm not is because you keep hitting it right back to me."

"...I see. I'm hitting it right where it's easy for you to return."

"Exactly."

It wasn't just a difference in stamina. I'll remember her advice.

"Konohana-san, honestly, you're so good I have nothing to teach you."

"I'm not as good as you, Miyakojima-san."

"No need to be modest. Your returns are stable, you can volley, your game is flawless. Very 'you'."

Narika praised Hinako.

"However, your high-point shots are a bit unstable, especially your backhand. You know you're good at volleying, so you try to move up, but that just gets you pinned at the baseline by topspin."

"Should I use a slice to endure it?"

"No, just return it normally if you can. You don't need power, just control. If a slow ball comes, you can hit a cross-court winner with your forehand."

I could mostly understand, but for a beginner, it was high-level talk. Hinako, however, understood perfectly, nodding seriously.

"I'm so sweaty. I'm going to get a drink."

Narika said, and walked toward the water fountain. Hinako and I watched her go.

"...Narika is really amazing when it comes to sports."

"Mhm... Good thing Miyakojima-san isn't in the tennis event..."

It's rare for Hinako to praise someone so directly. If Narika were in the event, Hinako would have to practice like crazy to win.

(She's probably unaware, but she's speaking so naturally to Hinako... She must relax when she's in her element.)

Narika can't be tense all the time. In front of friends, or in her area of expertise, she can be at ease. I need to learn more about Narika. This seems like a hint for helping her make friends.

"Kyaa!?"

Just then, we heard Narika's scream.

"Narika, are you okay?"

"U-Uu... Itsuki..."

I ran over. Narika was on the ground. Water was spraying violently from the faucet she'd been using. The water pressure was clearly too high.

"The faucet's broken."

"Yeah... I'm soaked."

Narika was drenched from head to shoulders. The Konohana staff saw and rushed over.

"Apologies! This is our poor management—"

"N-No, it's fine! It's actually cooling me down!"

Narika said, looking guilty as the staff bowed deeply. Well... she is cooler. After exercising this much, if there was a pool, I'd jump in.

"Wait here, I'll get a towel."

Still, she can't practice soaked. I went to get a towel.

"Itsuki... dry me..."

"Alright, alright."

Narika was more startled by the sudden spray than she was wet. Her imposing aura from before was gone. She was like a sad, dejected puppy. I rubbed her hair with the towel.

(...It's a different feel from Hinako's hair.)

The length and texture are different. When I'm pampering Hinako, she just melts, but Narika keeps subconsciously leaning in, like a big dog wanting affection.

"...Hehe."

Narika suddenly laughed.

"You've dried my hair like this before."

"Huh? I have?"

"One time, after it rained, I was running in the yard and I fell. My hair was full of mud, and you wiped it."

Oh yeah, that did happen. It's a childhood memory, so it's fuzzy, but she seems to remember it better.

"So nostalgic... When you did this, it always felt so safe."

She beamed. Being told that... it feels nice.

"—What are you two doing?"

Hinako had approached without me noticing.

"Uh... the faucet broke, Narika got wet, so I'm drying her hair."

"...I see."

I explained, a bit surprised. Hinako seemed to understand. I feel like I'm being glared at... is it my imagination? Hinako must have come for water, too. She approached the water fountain, turned the handle—and got sprayed right in the face.

"Sorry, I messed up."

"Why!?"

I just said this faucet was broken!

"B-But Konohana-san can be clumsy, too..."

Narika said, surprised. Is this 'clumsy'...? Hinako, just as soaked as Narika, approached me.

"Please dry me."

"...Got it."

I was confused, but I nodded. I'd brought an extra towel just in case, so I used that.

"I-Is this okay...?"

"Yes... Hehe, so gentle."

This was completely different from our normal routine. I'm nervously drying her hair.

(I can't believe I'm taking care of ojou-sama-mode Hinako...)

She's so different from how she is at home. Still, the soft feel of her hair and the faint sweet scent were the same. I was reminded that this revered ojou-sama and that sleepy girl are the same person.

"...Mph."

Narika saw this and pouted.

"Tomonari-kun, can you help me stretch?"

Hinako asked.

"Huh?... Okay."

Hinako sat on the ground. I gently pressed on her shoulders. Our faces naturally got close.

"K-Konohana-san! That's... t-too close!?"

Narika shouted.

"Is it?"

I think Narika has a point. But Hinako didn't seem to mind.

"Tomonari-kun, like this, like you're leaning on me..."

"L-Like this?"

"Yes... ah."

Hinako let out a small voice.

"...You're surprisingly toned."

She said, slightly embarrassed. Is this—is this an act?

"L-Let's practice! Practice!! Right now!!"

Narika shouted. Honestly, she saved me. If I'd stayed like that, my mind would have gone to weird places.

"What's next?"

"Right. We should practice returns... but I'd like to play a match first."

Narika said, thinking.

"By the way, who's stronger, Narika or Konohana-san?"

Hearing "match," I finally asked. Narika and Hinako looked at each other.

"Well... we've never played, so I don't know."

"Right. We haven't done tennis in PE yet..."

They both said "I don't know," but they must be curious.

"...If you're willing, Konohana-san, would you like to play a match?"

Narika proposed. Hinako thought for a moment—

"Okay. Please take care of me." —and nodded.

I'd been so focused on myself, I forgot: Hinako needs to practice, too. She's aiming to win.

(...Competition is good for practice.)

I had a feeling this wouldn't be a simple match.

"...Since it's a match, want to bet something?"

"Bet?"

They both tilted their heads.

"Like, the winner gets to ask the loser for one thing."

As I said it, I realized my mistake. These two are ojou-samas from Japan's biggest companies. For us, a punishment is "buy lunch," but they don't need money. If they have nothing to ask, the bet is pointless. I was about to retract it when...

"Th-Then... how about the winner... gets to go shopping with Itsuki?"

Narika proposed nervously.

"Huh, me?"

I didn't expect to be the prize.

"Fine."

Hinako nodded, her eyes serious. They walked to the court.

(...Well, with my current position, I can't just hang out with Narika.)

We're relatives, and we have a lot to talk about. But I work for the Konohana family now. I can't just take time off. This "right" to hang out must be what Narika wants. Well... Shizune-san will probably give me permission. Honestly, I was just interested in the match.

"One set, tie-break. How's that?"

"No problem."

Hinako agreed.

"Itsuki, can you be the umpire?"

"Sure."

I sat in the umpire's chair. Alright... the school's #1 "perfect ojou-sama" versus the "undefeated athletic" ojou-sama. Who will win? This is going to be good. Classmates would pay to see this.

They spun the racket. Narika won the serve. Her fast ball landed in the corner. Hinako didn't even touch it.

"Fifteen-love."

One-oh. Narika served again.

"Thirty-love."

Another point. Hinako returned it, but it hit the net.

(Is this too much for Hinako...?)

Two points in a row. Can even the "perfect ojou-sama" not beat Narika...? Narika's advantage continued, and she won the first game.

◆

After the first game. They had to change sides. Hinako and Narika started to move. On the way... Hinako asked Narika:

"Why do you want to go out with Tomonari-kun?"

She kept her voice low, so I couldn't hear. Narika was flustered.

"W-Why? Well..."

"Never mind, I get it. It's comfortable being with him, isn't it?"

Hinako said, picking up a ball by the net. Narika's eyes widened. The Kiou Academy #1 ojou-sama... feels that way about a boy? She knew they were close. But hearing it from Hinako herself was shocking.

"Y-You think so too...?"

"Yes."

Hinako nodded.

"We had so much fun when we went out together—"

"O-Out together!?"

The Konohana-san, the school's untouchable idol... On a date with a boy? Hinako ignored Narika's shock, smiled softly, and continued:

"Besides, Itsuki-kun—"

Narika's jaw dropped.

"—Sorry, Tomonari-kun... he..."

"What did you just say!? What!?"

Hinako just tilted her head, as if to say, "What do you mean?" It was Hinako's serve. Narika handed her the ball and walked to her side.

(Nngh...!! I knew it...! Itsuki calls Konohana-san Hinako...!!)

Narika gripped her racket. She glared at Hinako.

(What is your relationship!!?)

◆

Game two. Hinako's serve. Her shots weren't as powerful, but they were precise. She used short angles and drop shots. As Narika said, her game was flawless.

"Thirty-fifteen."

Hinako was up. Tennis is a server's game. It's easier to score. Of course, it depends on skill... but in the pros, the server usually wins. ...A "break" is a big deal. So Hinako has the advantage—

"Forty-fifteen."

Another point. Hinako was one point from winning the game. But I felt something was wrong.

(...Huh? Narika's performance dropped.)

She just wasn't playing as well. What's wrong? Before I knew it, Hinako had won the second game. It was Narika's serve. But... Hinako won the third game—a break. Narika was still in a slump. They changed sides.

◆

Narika picked up a ball near the net. She was near Hinako.

"...By the way, you let Itsuki dry your hair earlier."

Narika said, too quietly for me to hear.

"? Yes. Is something wrong...?"

"Don't tell me he... does your hair normally?"

Hinako hesitated. But she eventually gave her usual elegant smile.

"Well... occasionally... he helps me..."

She vaguely confirmed it. Narika's lips twitched.

"He's good at it, right? It's not his first time."

"...What do you mean?"

"When I was little... he said, 'That's hard to move in,' and tied my hair. He did it a lot... He might not remember, but my current hairstyle was his idea."

Narika proudly showed off her ponytail. Even Hinako, who was used to praise, had to admit Narika's hair was beautiful. They changed sides. Hinako's serve.

(...I'm not the first.)

She thought, tossing the ball.

(Hmph—...)

In her peripheral vision, she saw me, the umpire.

(............Hmph—)

◆

Game four. Just when Hinako was in the lead, the tide turned.

"Double fault... Love-forty."

Hinako was making service errors. Narika was one point from winning. Hinako had zero.

(...Now Hinako's performance dropped.)

As her attendant, I have to watch her condition. Is she sick? ...No, she's running fine. It's mental, not physical. I feel like she's glaring at me... why? Hinako tossed the ball to serve.

"—Whoa!?"

The ball grazed my nose. A serve should never cross the umpire's chair. Especially not from Hinako.

"Double fault..."

Game four went to Narika. They both went to pick up balls. On the way, they both looked at me.

"...Tomonari-kun."

"...I have words for you later."

Why are they both glaring at me?

◆

In the end, Narika won. It was back-and-forth, but Narika's athleticism won out. In the second half, she got serious, and her skill was overwhelming.

"Itsuki! We have a promise! We're going out!"

"Y-Yeah, I know."

Oh yeah, the bet.

"Hehe... I did it...!"

Narika was ecstatic. Hinako, on the other hand, looked frustrated, but slowly calmed down.

"Well, Tomonari-kun is busy. Who knows when that will ever happen."

"Wha!? Konohana-san, that's dirty!"

"We didn't set a date."

Hinako flashed a perfect, unreadable smile. Narika just growled.

(They've gotten closer...)

They'd formed a bond. Like boys who fight and make up. It happens to ojou-samas too, apparently.

We took a break, then resumed practice. Narika gave advice, and her feedback was instant, so it was easy to learn. Just as I was getting the hang of it, we finished. The sky was turning orange. It would be dark soon. We'd been at it all day.

We showered, changed, and said our goodbyes.

"Narika, thank you. That was great practice."

"I'm glad to hear it."

She nodded, satisfied.

"You're hitting with purpose, but sometimes your body isn't keeping up. That just takes practice... Ideally, you read your opponent, but for now, you should focus on drilling the shots you want, one by one."

"...I see."

That was exactly what I'd been feeling. In the second half, I'd been trying to react... but that was beyond my skill.

"If you want stable hits, a practice wall is good. But be careful; it can mess up your form."

"Got it."

I'll ask Shizune-san about a wall. Narika turned to Hinako.

"Konohana-san, you're a natural. You've already fixed the problem I mentioned. Just drill it."

"Thank you."

Hinako nodded. The rivalry was gone; they were back to normal.

"Konohana-san, can I see your racket?"

"? Of course..."

Narika looked at the grip. She pulled a new grip tape from her bag.

"You're a control player, so this thinner tape might be better. I think it'll help you feel the ball."

"I see... Please, let me use it."

Hinako accepted it. I was impressed by Narika's detailed advice.

"You're a good teacher."

"R-Really? I don't have much experience... that's the first time I've been praised."

Narika smiled, happy and shy. She might have a knack for teaching.

"...Monday, it's my turn to work hard."

She said, looking at the sky. Her confidence was gone, replaced by worry. I couldn't help but say:

"This might be bad to say, but if you really hate it, you can skip the sports festival. Konohana-san skips school sometimes. It's allowed."

"That's true..."

Kiou Academy students have... unique circumstances. Hinako herself skips when she's exhausted from acting. Skipping isn't impossible. If the trauma is that bad, I think it's a valid reason. But Narika gently shook her head.

"...I want to try and overcome my weakness. Running away won't change anything."

She said. That sounded incredibly strong.

"You're... strong."

"Strong?"

"Yeah. Facing your weakness like this isn't easy."

Hearing that, Narika's eyes widened. But she just smiled wryly.

"I'm not strong at all... but someone taught me once that admitting your weakness is the first step to being strong."

Narika continued:

"You two know this, but I'm clumsy. And honestly, my 'one strong point,' sports... I wasn't good at it, at first. It's the result of grueling training since I was old enough to remember."

"Huh?"

Is that true...? When I met her, she was already a master. But it wasn't talent; it was hard work.

"I failed a lot, worked till I passed out, and got calluses on my hands from swinging a sword... Even then, I didn't always get results."

She looked at her hands. I could see the calluses. She's still training.

"...Because I've struggled so much, I'm... actually really good at accepting my own weaknesses."

Narika smiled shyly. But it wasn't shameful at all.

(I see... That's why she's a good teacher.)

I realized. Because she accepts her own weakness, she can empathize with others' weaknesses. That's why her advice is so detailed. She understands what it's like to struggle.

(...I wish people knew this about her.)

I wished more people knew this side of Narika. She's flawed, but she's admirable. As I was thinking that, I realized she was staring at me.

"What's wrong?"

"...Nothing."

Narika sighed for some reason. We said our goodbyes and headed home.

◆

I, Hinako, and Shizune-san were in the car.

"Today was tiring."

"Mhm... I can't move."

Hinako, who had been the perfect ojou-sama until just a moment ago, was completely drained. I was exhausted too. I wanted to collapse.

"Shizune-san, is there a practice wall at the mansion?"

"There is a gym by the dojo, the size of a basketball court. The wall material might not be right..."

"Thanks. I'll check."

I'll practice like Narika said. I don't need to win, just... get good results. Narika had motivated me.

"We need to help Narika, too."

She'd "repaid" us, but now I felt indebted. I wondered what plan to try on Monday...

"...I'll think too."

Hinako muttered.

"You're being very proactive."

Honestly, it's surprising. Hinako isn't cold, but she is lazy.

"...Because I understand her feelings. A little."

She said, sleepily.

"For both of us... people's impression... is different from who we really are."

"...Now that you mention it, that's true."

"Mhm. So... I know it's hard for her."

One is mistaken for a yakuza, but is actually a coward. The other is a "perfect ojou-sama," but is actually a slob. Hinako is forced to play a part. She understands the pressure.

"By the way... Itsuki."

She stared at my face.

"I heard... you designed Miyakojima-san's hairstyle. Is that true?"

Her big, watery eyes looked severe. How did she know... I didn't tell her.

"...Yeah. But that was a long time ago, okay?"

"Ngh..."

Hinako looked displeased.

"...Think of one... for me too."

She wants me to style her hair? I was at a loss, seeing her get competitive over such a strange thing.

"Even if you ask, I don't have hair ties..."

"I prepared these, just in case."

Shizune-san, in the front seat, turned and handed me two hair ties. She's too prepared...

"...Shizune-san, you're being very gentle with Hinako lately."

"I am Ojou-sama's maid... I am just, as a maid, supporting her."

She turned back around. She used to be the one reining Hinako in... has she changed? Or has Hinako changed?

Hinako turned her back to me. I looked at the hair ties. (A ponytail is Narika's. Drills are Tennouji's...) They misunderstand... I don't know anything about hair. I'll just do something different. She usually wears it down. She had a ponytail today. So...

"...Okay, like this."

I tied her hair into two tails. Twintails. As I expected, it looked good. Hinako is cute in any style. It's rare for a high schooler, but it's not as wild as golden drills.

"Whoa..."

Hinako looked at her reflection in the window, moved.

"...So? How is it?"

"Mhm... I'm satisfied."

It was random, but she seems happy. She lay down, putting her head on my lap. The twintails brushed my arm.

"I understand Miyakojima-san's feelings... but I won't give you up."

Hinako whispered.

"I don't want... you taking care of... anyone but me."

She said, and closed her eyes.

...Don't worry. You're the only one who needs this much care. A moment later, her breathing evened out. She used a lot of energy today. She must be tired. Honestly, I want to sleep too.

"We're here."

The car stopped. Shizune-san announced our arrival. I gently patted Hinako's head.

"We're here."

Hinako sat up, yawning. Shizune-san got out.

"Kagen-sama."

She bowed, surprised. I looked. Kagen-san's car had arrived at the same time.

"You're back. Do you have business?"

"I'm just stopping by. My next meeting is nearby."

I got out of the car. Our eyes met. I bowed nervously. Hinako got out.

"Mmh... Father?"

"Hinako, you're back—"

Kagen-san stopped mid-sentence. His eyes widened. He looked stunned.

"...What is with that hair?"

He said, staring at Hinako's twintails. Oh, crap. A cold sweat ran down my back.

"...Itsuki did it."

Hinako answered honestly. Kagen-san looked at me, dead serious.

"Itsuki-kun."

"Y-Yes."

"Is this your... hobby?"

"No!!"

I mean, I'm not sure, but I definitely didn't do it for that reason. It's fine, it's just for now, I'm not ruining her image... I thought, bowing my head.

"Aww... it's not...?"

Hinako looked disappointed. Hinako, please! Not now!

◆

Monday, after school. We met on the staircase landing.

"About the plan... Konohana-san and I discussed it. How about... talking to people about the sports festival?"

Narika froze. I explained:

"On Saturday, you were so much more natural. You were talking to Konohana-san normally."

"N-Now that you mention it, yeah."

Narika realized. She was relaxed.

"We thought, if it's your area of expertise, it should be easier. Why don't you talk to the other people in the kendo event?"

"B-But, Itsuki, the sports festival is the reason I'm in this mess. Isn't that dangerous?"

She said, worried.

"You have a point..." I hesitated.

"...Honestly, the rumors about you are already everywhere. I don't think you need to worry about that anymore."

"Ngh... I hate to admit it, but you're probably right..."

The rumors are just... rumors.

"I think people who are serious about sports, like kendo, will be easier to clear up misunderstandings with. They might relate to you."

"That... might be true."

Narika looked convinced.

"...Okay. I'll try."

She nodded.

"Do you know who else is in kendo?"

"I know the people from Class B... I'll talk to them when I see them."

Narika swallowed, nervous. Hinako and I moved away to watch. Just then, a girl walked down the hall.

"O-Okay, here I go..."

Narika whispered. This must be one of the kendo girls.

"Y-You there!"

"Yes!?"

That sounded like a police officer... A bad start. Can she recover?

"Y-You did kendo last year, right?"

"Y-Yes..."

The girl already looked like she was about to cry.

"You're... doing it again... this year?"

"Y-Yes..."

She trembled. Narika gave her what she thought was a smile, but looked like a demon king.

"I... won't lose this year either."

"Eek... I-I forfeit...!"

The girl ran away, crying. A victory without fighting... but that's not the point! Narika stood there, stunned. I walked over.

"What was that, threatening her?"

"Ah, ow."

I lightly karate-chopped her head. She's so clumsy...

"Should we rethink the plan?"

"...No."

She thought, then shook her head.

"You and Konohana-san are helping me. I have to try harder."

"...Right."

Her strength: admitting her weakness. She doesn't give up easily.

"But... I just get so nervous."

Motivation is high, results are zero. She's too tense.

"...Can't you just talk to them like you talk to me?"

"I-I don't think... that's possible."

Narika looked troubled. Yeah, if it were that easy...

"Then find someone like me. Maybe you can talk to them."

It's a good idea... But in this school? There's no one "like me." ...Still, Narika looked troubled.

"No... I probably can't."

"It's not about being 'like' you... For me, you're special."

She said it so simply, so seriously. It hit me with destructive force.

"I-I see..."

I could feel her trust. It made me happy, and embarrassed.

"—Did you decide on a plan?"

"Waah!?"

Hinako had snuck up behind Narika. Narika jumped.

"I-It's been a while since someone snuck up on me... Konohana-san, you have talent as an assassin..."

You're one to talk...

"Conclusion: we have to just push through."

There are no shortcuts. She just has to be patient.

"...Okay, try this. Talk to me, and if someone comes by, maybe you can just... transition the conversation."

"O-Okay. I'll try."

Narika nodded. What to talk about...? I decided to just ask what was on my mind.

"By the way, you said you kept going to the dagashi shop. Your family was okay with that?"

"Oh, they nagged me. 'It's unhealthy,' 'What if you get kidnapped,' all that."

Hinako wouldn't be allowed.

"But... the snacks were a memory of you, so I kept eating them... Then one day, Dad got an idea, 'Sports and snacks?' He tried putting them by the registers... it got popular with kids, sales went up, we got on TV, and our stock prices shot up—"

"Wait, wait, wait... that's such a huge story, I forgot what I was asking."

I just wanted small talk... So that's why her parents can't stop her. And that's why she's more "free" than Hinako or Tennouji-san. She'd brought her family unexpected success.

"O-Okay, how about this topic? Um... a-about our date... we should set a time—"

"Ah, someone's coming."

"Eeeeh!? Right now!?"

Narika panicked. A male student was walking down the hall.

"He's in my class... but I don't think he's in kendo..."

"Then let him pass."

"Ah, b-but I think he did kendo last year..."

"Then go talk to him."

Narika winced. Honesty is a virtue. If he did kendo, they have common ground.

"E-Excuse me!"

Narika said, steeling herself.

"You... did kendo last year, right?"

"...Yeah."

"Wh-What kind of armor do you use!?"

Narika asked, gathering her courage. That's a good question. It's easy to answer. However, the boy—

"...Does it matter?"

He replied, clearly annoyed.

"M-Maybe not..."

Narika didn't know what to say. I watched from a distance, confused. This was different.

"Sorry, I'm in a hurry."

The boy said, and walked away. Hinako and I approached the dejected Narika.

"Problem is my face...? Was my expression bad...?"

She blamed herself, as usual. But—Narika might not have noticed. This was different.

"...Narika, wait here."

I went after the boy.

(That... was his fault.)

Before, it was Narika's attitude. Not this time. That boy clearly dislikes Narika. He was dismissive... Anyone would be hurt by that. I found the boy... he wasn't in a hurry. He was looking at the cafe menu.

"Can I have a word?"

I said.

"...What?" He turned, annoyed.

I'm angry. Why does everyone misunderstand Narika?

"I saw that... that attitude wasn't cool."

I said, trying to stay calm.

"It's none of your business."

"No, it is. I'm Narika's friend."

I retorted, calming myself. Not everyone has to like her. But... his attitude was too much.

"...She isn't who you think... you don't have to be cold."

The boy looked troubled.

"What if she is scary, like the rumors?"

He scowled.

"My parents always tell me not to upset rich families. If I piss her off, my family will be crushed."

Hearing that, my mind stopped. That—was completely unexpected. I never thought... what other people's parents tell them about Narika, the Miyakojima heiress. As I stood frozen, he continued:

"...You're Tomonari from Class A. I know you."

I stared. He glared at me.

"Not all of us are good at sucking up like you."

He said, and left.

"S-Sucking up...?"

I whispered. I couldn't stop him. That hit me hard.

(That's... how people see me...?)

I never imagined. That's how they see me... and Narika...

(...Wait a second.)

Things just changed. A cold sweat ran down my back.

(This... isn't just about Narika. I'm in trouble, too.)

◆

I returned to the mansion, ate dinner, and finished my bath. I sat in my chair, pulling myself together.

"...Alright."

I finished my prep and review. Now, for the homework I brought from school. —I have to think. About what that boy said.

(I'm in no position to be helping Narika... I need to look at myself.)

What is my position at school? Objectively. I'm a transfer student. A commoner. My cover is a "mid-level" company. Tennouji-san knows, but others don't. I've only been here three months. I'm not rich, I'm not top of the class. But I hang out with Hinako. And Tennouji-san. And Narika.

"It looks like sucking up."

That boy wasn't even in my class. That means everyone is noticing.

(It's because... I'm not 'accepted' yet.)

If it were natural for me to be with them, no one would say anything. Why isn't it? ...Because I keep my distance from Hinako. I have to, to protect her image. We hide our lunches. I "happen" to be there when she's in trouble. We're trying to look like "just classmates." I thought that was working. It's not. Keeping my distance... just makes the minimum contact we do have... stand out.

(And it's not 'minimum'...)

Tea parties. Study sessions. Helping Narika. From the outside, it must look weird. The quiet guy... suddenly hanging with the top ojou-samas. "Super-sycophant" isn't wrong.

(But... should I not be with them?)

Should I really keep my distance? I hesitate. Hinako... she's faking it at school. To others, she's elegant. To me, she looks strained. But when she's with me... she smiles. That... is my job, isn't it? Can I deny her that?

"...Itsuki."

"Whoa!?"

Someone called my name from behind.

"H-Hinako... when did you get here...?"

"A while ago..."

I didn't even notice. I was deep in thought.

"You came by yourself?"

"Shizune brought me partway..."

Of course. Hinako peered at my face, worried.

"You look... troubled."

"...Something's bothering me."

I can't tell her. So, I asked the most basic question:

"...Hey, Hinako. Do you want to be with me at school?"

She tilted her head.

"We have lunch...?"

"No, besides that... Like, in the classroom, during breaks. Do you want to be with me?"

Hinako nodded immediately.

"Of course... I want to be with Itsuki all the time."

"All the time, huh."

That's... nice to hear.

"Okay... I'll work on it."

I've made my decision. Thanks to Hinako... no, I'd have reached this conclusion anyway.

(...I feel the same way.)

This isn't about being an attendant. It's not my job. It's what I want.

(I... want to be with Hinako. And Tennouji-san. And Narika.)

Right now, people don't think I'm worthy of being by their side. I have to change that. Otherwise, I'll cause trouble for them.

"...I have to make more people accept me."

This is a first for me. But I've decided. I won't back down.

◆

After Itsuki walked her back, Hinako was rolling around on her bed, hugging a pillow.

"Pardon me."

Shizune-san entered. She approached the bed and looked at her files.

"Ojou-sama, about the dinner party next week—"

Shizune-san stopped.

"Ehehe~..."

Hinako was not her usual self. She was giggling, rolling back and forth.

"Ehehehe..."

"...Ojou-sama, what's wrong?"

Shizune-san asked the blissfully happy Hinako.

"Itsuki said he'd work hard so we can be together in class..."

"In the classroom?"

Shizune-san tilted her head. Hinako nodded.

"I'm so happy... ehehe."

Hinako was smiling like a fool.

"Did Itsuki-san say how he would accomplish this?"

"That... I don't know."

Hinako thought back.

"He said... he has to make more people accept him."

Itsuki had muttered that. She didn't get it, but he looked serious.

"...I see. That will be a difficult path."

Shizune-san whispered.

"Kagen-sama has sent the details for next week..."

Shizune-san relayed the message. It was a small gathering. Hinako just "mhm"-ed, already sleepy.

"Well, I'll take my leave."

Shizune-san finished her report and bowed.

"...Shizune, you're in a hurry...?"

Hinako asked, rubbing her eyes. The report seemed faster than usual.

"My apologies. I'm going to see Itsuki-san now."

"See Itsuki...? Then I'll..."

"You just went. Please rest for today."

"Mph..." Hinako pouted, but obeyed. She burrowed into her covers and was asleep instantly.

◆

I was back in my room, thinking. I need to be someone worthy of Hinako at school. But how?

(I can't ask them for help... that would just make it worse.)

...Taisho and Asahi-san... they fit in. They're the class clowns, popular. They talk to everyone. That's the difference...

"Pardon me."

A knock.

"Shizune-san...?"

"You seem troubled."

She said, looking at my face.

"I heard from Ojou-sama... You want to stand by her side at Kiou Academy, openly?"

"...Yes."

I didn't tell Hinako that much. Shizune-san is sharp.

"So you're seriously thinking about your social standing."

I nodded. She let out a long, slow breath. Not a sigh. It was... admiration.

"...The previous attendants... all quit within a month."

Shizune-san said suddenly.

"So, no attendant has ever worried about their school relationships. They didn't last long enough to have any."

That makes sense. I didn't have these worries in my first month either. I was just trying to survive.

"Meaning, you are the first attendant to ever face this problem."

She stared at me.

"You will struggle with many things... but let me say this."

Shizune-san spoke slowly, with genuine sincerity.

"—You've done well to make it this far."

She looked right at me. It was as if she was happy I was facing this. Her reaction confirmed it. I was right to worry about this. I could have backed off. But I chose to step forward. And Shizune-san, who has cared for Hinako the longest, just backed my play. I felt... encouraged.

"Itsuki-san, let's think together."

She said, in a gentler voice than I'd ever heard.

"Let's think about what it takes... to become a true student of Kiou Academy."

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