Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 4 Chapter 4

The Beach, the Ojou-samas, and the Childhood Friend

The next morning.

As I was getting breakfast in the hotel restaurant like usual, a small figure approached me.

"Itsuki, good morning!"

Someone grabbed my shoulders. I turned around and saw my childhood friend, Yuri. Hinako and the others also said "Good morning" to Yuri. I gave a quick "Morning" and stared at Yuri's face.

"You're in a weirdly good mood. Did something happen?"

"Nope— I was just thinking you're pretty impressive yourself."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

I tilted my head, confused, and noticed that Tennouji-san and Narika, sitting across from me, were both blushing slightly. I'd noticed Yuri being sneaky these past few days. I didn't think she'd cause trouble, but maybe she'd said something to Tennouji-san and the others.

"Ah, by the way, I made this salad. Savor it. Though I mostly just cut stuff up."

"Yeah, yeah."

Yuri pointed to the plate as she spoke, and I replied noncommittally. But then, I felt something was off.

"...Yuri?"

"What?"

"Are you... forcing it?"

There was a beat before she replied.

"Huh? I'm not forcing anything."

I couldn't tell if she was lying, but I knew Yuri is stubborn in these situations and wouldn't change her tune. I'd just have to trust her, I mused, and nodded.

"Do you have time to worry about others? You have your exam today, right?"

"Urk... R-Right."

Just as she said. Today was the summer lecture exam. I'd carefully prepared and reviewed every day except the first, so I'd kept up, but I had no idea what my score would be. Honestly... I'm not confident.

"Is it that big a deal?"

"No... If my score is too bad, I'll be subjected to Shizune-san's spartan training for the rest of summer break..."

"Shizune-san is that maid, right? What's wrong with that? One-on-one tutoring with a pretty lady? Any guy would be happy."

"You only say that because you don't know how spartan she is."

I said with a straight face. Yuri looked a bit scared and nodded, "I-I see."

"Are Konohana-san and the others ready?"

"Mhm. I believe I am prepared, as always."

Hinako answered Yuri's question and sipped her Assam tea. I'd heard Assam has caffeine, so she's been drinking it a lot during the lecture period.

"Hinako Konohana! For the record, I am more prepared than usual."

"You're very studious, Tennouji-san."

"Y-Yes, I always strive to... That's not it! We must settle the score this time!"

"Please, go easy on me."

Hinako's gotten the hang of dealing with Tennouji-san recently. Getting the hang of it, in other words, meant she understood her. Or rather, it stemmed from Tennouji-san's own change. She had started to respect her own feelings instead of just her family name, and she'd gradually become friendlier.

"What about Narika?"

"Mhm. I've already given up. I'll have a tutor come to my house after this is over."

Narika said, her eyes dead. I was one step away from her level, so I couldn't really treat this as someone else's problem.

"Well, nothing you can do now. Just brace yourself and take it. If your score is too bad, I'll make you that hamburg steak set again."

"...Yeah."

Just as Yuri said. All I could do now was brace myself.

"I'll take you up on that hamburg steak."

"Don't give up before you start!"

Yuri lightly tapped my head. ...She seems back to normal. She seemed to be forcing her smile earlier, but maybe I was just imagining things.

"By the way, what's everyone doing on our day off tomorrow?"

Tennouji-san asked, looking around after finishing her soup. The summer lecture ends today. Tomorrow is a day off for grading, and the results will be posted the day after.

"I don't have any plans."

"Me neither."

I didn't have anything scheduled, and Narika said the same.

"I haven't decided either... but this is a rare chance. It would be nice to go out and do something fun. I'd like to have at least one day to forget about studying and enjoy a break."

I completely agreed with Tennouji-san. We were in the middle of summer break but had been totally focused on studying. A little reward should be fine.

"In that case, why don't we go to the beach?"

Hinako suggested. We all tilted our heads, "The beach?" Hinako continued to explain:

"It's a two-hour drive from here to a beach on the Sea of Japan. It's not a private beach, so there will be other people..."

"Great! Summer means the beach! Count me in!"

"P-Please let me come, too!"

Tennouji-san and Narika immediately agreed. The lecture was so hard I'd completely forgotten, but we did talk about the beach on the way to Karuizawa. And, I was very surprised. (It's rare for Hinako to invite everyone out...) Or rather, it was rare for her to plan an activity at all. When no one was watching, she'd even drop her act. I'd figured she'd want to just laze around in her room on her rare day off...

"G-Going to the beach with friends...! Ah, this is what I've always dreamed of...!"

Narika was so moved she almost cried.

"Ah!? B-But I didn't bring a swimsuit!?"

"We can buy some on the way. There's a Konohana Group store near the beach. We can stop there first."

"I-I see. That's true."

I didn't bring one either, so I'd have to buy one.

"U-Um... Can I come, too?"

Yuri nervously raised her hand. Hinako smiled brightly and nodded.

"Of course."

"G-Great... You mentioned 'private beach,' so I thought a commoner like me wouldn't be invited."

"If time had allowed, I was planning to invite you to my family's private beach."

"O-Ooh... It's not 'rely on your parents,' it's 'rely on your rich ojou-sama friends'..."

Yuri dramatically placed a hand on her chest, looking delighted.

"But Yuri, what about your job?"

"It's fine, I have the day off tomorrow."

"I thought you'd be busy, but you're getting proper breaks."

"I'd planned to use this time for cooking research, so I asked for a lighter schedule. Besides, kitchen work is tough, so they make sure we get real days off."

I've been to Yuri's place enough to know kitchen work is heavy labor. In a high-class hotel kitchen, they can't afford to be sloppy. To make sure the staff stays focused, they probably schedule solid breaks.

"It's about time for class."

Tennouji-san said after checking the time.

"Good luck on the exam, everyone."

We left the restaurant, sent off by Yuri. As we all walked to class, I silently moved to the back and whispered to Hinako:

"Hinako, you've been thinking about the beach this whole time?"

"Mhm... Shizune and I discussed it."

So that's how she knew about the beach on the Sea of Japan side. It wasn't a spur-of-the-moment idea.

"But, is it okay to invite everyone? If other people are around, you'll have to keep up your act, right?"

"It's not a private beach anyway, so it'd be the same either way."

That's true.

"Besides... I thought this would make you happy."

Hinako looked right at me as she said it. She saw right through me... During the lecture, our group had been together constantly. It was a rare chance, and I did want to hang out with everyone.

"Thanks. It is a rare chance. I wanted to hang out, too."

"Mhm... Because I know you best."

Hinako said proudly. Just then, Tennouji-san, who was walking ahead, noticed we'd slowed down and turned.

"You two, is something wrong?"

"No, it's nothing."

Hinako instantly switched back to her act. I gave a wry smile... I'm still not used to that switch.

◆

The day after the exam.

It was 2 PM. We'd left the hotel in the morning, bought swimsuits at a department store on the way, had lunch, and finally arrived at our destination.

"...It's the beach."

I could only offer that extremely boring thought. It was, indeed, the beach. I'd been to the beach once in middle school for a school event called a "Nature Study," but my family was broke, so we couldn't afford the bus. I'd had to ask Yuri's family to drive me. I barely scraped together enough for lunch that day, but in exchange, I had to skip every meal except dinner for a month when I got home. That might have been the best meal of my middle school life. Just thinking about it makes my nose sting.

"You've changed."

I came out of the changing room after getting into my swimsuit and found Shizune-san waiting. She was in her usual maid uniform.

"You're not wearing a swimsuit."

"Did you want to see me in one?"

She asked with a mischievous smile. I realized I was blushing and looked down to hide it.

"You still have no resistance to this. You don't seem like someone who lives with Ojou-sama every day."

"...I try to be careful. Especially during bath time."

"Commendable."

By the way, the trick is to not really look, but to just let it register in your peripheral vision. That's how I barely manage to handle Hinako's revealing swimsuit.

"For everyone's safety, I'll be prioritizing work today. A private beach is one thing, but this is a public beach with many other people."

"Um, sorry. It seems like I'm the only one excited."

"Please don't be. Thanks to your consideration, I'm actually more relaxed than usual."

Shizune-san said gently. She really did seem to have gotten some rest.

"Besides, I've already arranged for one hundred Konohana guards at this beach. My personal burden isn't that heavy."

"I-I see."

As expected of the Konohana family. Swift and efficient. I casually looked around and saw familiar, muscular men in beach shorts walking the beach... It's like having a hundred lifeguards on duty.

"By the way, Itsuki-san, how was the exam?"

"...Well, I did my best."

Honestly, I don't know how I did. Many of the subjects were different from what we learn in school, so I was full of anxiety even after I finished.

"Very good. I'll look forward to the results."

"Yes."

That just felt like pressure to me.

"Sorry to keep you waiting—!!"

Just then, a loud voice came from the women's changing room. Yuri came over, waving, flanked by the three dazzling ojou-samas.

"The weather is lovely."

"Yes, it's almost dazzling."

"Yes... I'm experiencing... youth...!"

The three of them were already enjoying the change of scenery, looking ecstatic. My eyes drifted to the object Yuri was holding.

"Yuri, is that..."

"It's a beach ball! I bought it at the department store when we stopped."

I hadn't noticed. I'd stepped away from the girls when I was buying my swimsuit, so she must have bought it then.

"Also, Itsuki. Aren't you supposed to say something?"

"Ngh..."

I knew, in theory, what I was supposed to say. I looked again at the four girls. Narika and Tennouji-san looked uncharacteristically shy. Hinako was in Ojou-sama mode, but her cheeks were a bit red.

Hinako's was a two-piece white off-the-shoulder swimsuit. It had ruffles on the top and bottom, which hid her curves a bit, giving her an ethereal impression. It was incredibly pretty, with an innocent beauty that made you hesitate to even touch. Tennouji-san's was a blue bikini with a pareo tied around her waist. The material of the straps was special, reflecting the light like a necklace. The pareo also had a pattern. It was flashy yet elegant, very Tennouji-san. Narika's was a black bikini with white polka dots. It looked like it was designed not just for looks, but for ease of movement. She's always exercising, so her body was toned and fit, and she showed off her slender figure. Yuri's was an orange bikini top with beige hot pants. Yuri is small, and you couldn't say she was "well-developed" even as a compliment, but the whole look was energetic and suited her perfectly.

After looking them all over, my heart pounded as I said:

".........It suits all of you."

"You're useless."

Yuri whispered. My mental fortitude isn't high enough to wax poetic about girls' swimsuits. Just then, I noticed the ojou-samas were, for some reason, staring at me.

"Itsuki... um... you're very... fit."

Narika murmured.

"It's true... Have you put on muscle?"

"...Yeah. A lot's happened."

Shizune-san trained me half to death.

"By the way, I never knew public beaches were this lively."

Tennouji-san said, looking around.

"Do you usually go to private beaches?"

"Yes. That, or an indoor pool if I don't want a tan."

"It's hard to imagine you with a tan."

"Oh, I got tanned all the time as a child. I may not look it, but I was very active, you know."

I thought "That's surprising," but then again, maybe not. Tennouji-san is always elegant, but she has an energetic feel to her. If Tennouji-san got a tan... it might look good. As I was subconsciously imagining it, Yuri walked over.

"By the way, Itsuki, did you put on sunscreen?"

"Huh?... Ah, crap. I forgot."

"I knew it... You're hopeless."

Yuri sighed and pulled sunscreen from her bag.

"Here. Lie down."

"Huh... No, I'll do it myself."

"You can't reach your own back."

That's true... Resistance seemed futile, so I lay down on the beach mat.

"Hup!"

Yuri sat on my waist. She's light, so it's fine, but...

"Um, Yuri? This is a little close..."

"What are you shy about? We used to bathe together, didn't we?"

" "Bathe together!?" "

Tennouji-san and Narika were dumbfounded.

"You wore swimsuits, right?"

"Huh? No... Why swimsuits...?"

Hinako asked a weird question. I don't really get it, but it must mean she's surprised, too.

"I'm telling you, that was in elementary school."

After I added that with a sigh, Tennouji-san and Narika clutched their chests in relief. Hinako remained as calm as ever. I wish Yuri wouldn't say it in a way that implies we still do. ...I mean, I bathe with Hinako now, but I can absolutely never say that.

"Okay, done!"

"Ow!? Don't slap me!"

My back was suddenly slapped, making me jump.

"Ahaha! Left a perfect handprint!"

"You little...!"

Yuri ran toward the sea, and I immediately chased her. I kicked off my sandals and stepped right onto the sand. The heat made me jump, and I felt like I was really enjoying summer.

◆

"Here it comes!"

Yuri shouted, hitting the beach ball. It flew in an arc toward me.

"Whoa."

The ball went off course from the wind. I stuck out my right hand and knocked it up. The ball flew toward Hinako.

"Hup!"

"Watch out—!!"

Hinako hit it, and Tennouji-san hit it again, toward Narika.

"Take this!"

Narika quickly leaped to intercept the wind-blown ball and spiked it back toward Yuri. Her hit was the only one with real power. Narika's athletic skills are amazing, and she was just as impressive in the water.

"Not bad."

Yuri smiled fearlessly. I only just realized, but everyone here is athletic. Hinako and Tennouji-san are good at everything, I've been training, and Yuri is pretty athletic, too. Because of that, even a simple game of catch was getting serious.

"Just hitting a ball in the water is surprisingly deep."

"Yes. It trains your lower body. It's good exercise."

The ojou-samas have a weird focus. Have they noticed... they're the center of attention? A group of celestial beauties had gathered in one place, all wearing swimsuits. Everyone, young and old, was staring at us.

"...Itsuki. You have to put up with this all the time?"

"...I've only just gotten used to it."

Yuri and I were in the middle of it all and very nervous. I've realized recently that these ojou-samas are constantly aware of being watched, always thinking about how they should behave. So they must have noticed the stares. But to them, being the center of attention is normal, so they don't mind.

"But..."

"? What?"

I looked at Yuri while enduring the stares. The three ojou-samas are gorgeous, of course. But Yuri, standing with them... when I really looked, she wasn't bad either. Because she's my childhood friend, I know her normal past and her commoner values, but if I put those preconceptions aside, she fits right in.

"...You're cute, too."

"Wh-Whaaaat!? Are you an idiot!? You're an idiot!!"

"Ow, stop hitting me!"

Yuri frantically slapped me to hide her embarrassment. Just then, the beach ball came flying aggressively. I turned my head like a rusty fan and saw Hinako smiling brightly, watching me.

"Tomonari-kun. The ball."

"Y-Yes."

Better not provoke her. I immediately retrieved the ball and passed it to Tennouji-san. The beach ball went "boing!" high into the air, falling toward Narika. I expected her to spike it back... but the ball flew past her and plopped into the water.

"Miyakojima-san, what's wrong?"

"I-I think I'm tired! I-I'm taking a break!"

Narika looked stiff and backed away from us. As I was wondering what was wrong, she shot me a desperate, pleading look.

"I-Itsuki, come here."

She was secretly waving, so I subtly moved closer to her.

"What's up?"

"...My top... floated away."

"Huh?"

"I-I think I moved too much..."

Hearing that, her top— I instinctively went to look, then quickly looked away.

"Sorry! I'm taking a break, too!"

I used "taking a break" as an excuse to leave. I tried not to look at Narika as I walked over.

"By the way, instead of me, you should've called a girl..."

"......Y-Yeah."

Narika looked confused, "Why didn't I?" I'd like to know, too. Her top was black. I frantically scanned the crowd but couldn't find it.

"Maybe it's behind those rocks."

"W-Wait! Don't leave me!"

"No, but... Are you coming with me?"

"O-Okay. If I pretend to swim, I can manage..."

Narika hunched over and followed me. She was probably trying to cover her chest, so she was pressed against my back. I wish she'd realize how dangerous that is... but maybe it's cruel to say that to her when she's desperate...? We got behind the rocks, where there were fewer people. Narika sighed in relief. I looked closely, and a black swimsuit top was floating between the rocks.

"Found it!"

I picked it up and immediately tried to hand it to Narika, who was hiding.

"W-Wait! Don't look!"

"S-Sorry!"

I quickly looked away and handed it to her again.

"...Y-You can look now."

She gave permission, so I turned back. Narika had successfully put her top back on.

"That's a relief. Let's go back."

"Yeah... Um, thanks."

"Don't worry about it."

I don't know... if it's common, but bikinis must come off easily.

"You were moving so hard, no wonder it came off."

"Y-Yeah. I was trying to take it easy, but Hirano-san was better than I thought, so I got serious."

"She's athletic, too. We messaged yesterday, and she said she wanted to go all out."

"Messaged........."

Narika's head suddenly drooped. But she finally looked up, her expression determined.

"I-Itsuki! Um, can you come a little closer?"

"Huh? Sure, but why—"

The moment I started to ask "why?" Narika closed the distance in a flash and thrust her right hand at me.

"T-Take... this!"

"Wha!?"

The martial arts prodigy Narika Miyakojima's palm strike grazed my cheek. I've learned self-defense from Shizune-san, but I couldn't even react. A loud "THUD!" came from behind me. Narika's palm strike... had hit the rock behind me.

"Wh-Why... did you use a sumo palm thrust...?"

"A palm thrust!? No, no! Th-This is... a kabe-don!"

"Kabe-don?......... A kabe-don?"

I thought, "Oh, just a kabe-don." This just got weirder.

"I-I heard that if I did this... um... we could get closer."

Narika stammered out an explanation.

"...Who told you that?"

"...Hirano-san."

I thought, Of course. There's no way kabe-don culture reached the ojou-sama circle. I wouldn't have taught them. The culprit had to be Yuri.

"...A kabe-don isn't the all-powerful tool you think it is."

"I-Is that so?"

"Also, when you do that while dressed like that, I don't know where to look..."

I said, looking away. Narika froze for a second, then understood what I meant.

"—!?"

She scrambled away from me, covering her chest with her hands. Her embarrassment hit its limit, and she squatted down, holding her head.

"Aaaah... You've only seen my embarrassing side today..."

I chose not to say, "You're always like this."

"...So, what did you want?"

I asked, after she'd calmed down a bit. She stood up slowly, her eyes moist.

"...Itsuki. There's something I've wanted to ask for a long time."

She saw me nod slightly and continued:

"What... is your relationship with Konohana-san?"

Her voice was strangely serious. It had a strange power. It took me a few seconds to suppress my surprise.

"Even if you ask... it's like I explained. I work for her family."

"But... you call her by her first name, don't you?"

"!"

How did she know? Narika continued for me, as I was speechless:

"You might not have noticed, but you called her 'Hinako' in front of me once... You call each other by your first names, don't you?"

I hadn't realized. I'm usually so careful. Was it when I was new to the job? I thought I'd been so careful... No, stop. She heard me. It doesn't matter when. Excuses came to mind. For example, there are other servants at the estate with the same last name... It was flimsy, but plausible. But I resisted. I'm her employee. I can't cause trouble for the Konohana family. But I want to avoid lying as much as possible.

"Y-Yeah."

In the end, I admitted it.

"Working at the Konohana estate, Hinako and I got close... We're probably closer than you think."

Narika's eyes widened when I changed how I referred to her.

"But... if I called her that at school, it would attract the wrong kind of attention. We live in the same mansion... it's huge, but still. If bad rumors spread, it would be trouble for Hinako and the Konohana family. So I call her Konohana-san in public."

Narika seemed to understand, a look of realization on her face. This would be the only time I call Hinako "Hinako" in front of her. After this, I'd go back to normal. Since there are other Kiou Academy students in Karuizawa, they might even be at this beach.

"...That sounds like you. Always for others, not for yourself... If you say that, I can't argue."

Narika sighed heavily. She seemed to be trying to say, "It can't be helped"—

"But, come to think of it, we used to use first names, too, didn't we?"

"Ngh... Y-Yeah, we did..."

She seemed to be struggling to put her frustration into words. She raised a hand, composed herself, and said:

"But... But... I still want to be more special to you!"

Her awkwardness is also a weapon. Narika can sometimes be brutally direct with her feelings. I didn't know how to react. I tensed up and said nothing.

"S-So, Itsuki!"

"Y-Yes."

"W-Would you... exchange e-mail addresses with me!?"

"...What?"

How did she reach that conclusion? I was so confused my brain froze.

"I-I want to message you! Not just at school, but on days off, too!"

Oh, I see.

"...I see. We haven't exchanged contact info, have we."

I'm only just realizing this now. I rarely use my phone to contact anyone besides Yuri, so I'd completely forgotten to exchange info.

"Let's go get our phones... We'll exchange e-mail, but we use messaging apps more. Let's start with that."

"O-Okay. Teach me."

We walked over the uneven rocks and back toward the sand. As the small waves lapped at our feet on the way back, Narika suddenly said:

"Itsuki, is that a handprint from Hirano-san on your back?"

"Yeah. It's still there. It doesn't hurt, so don't worry about it."

"......"

She suddenly went quiet. The next second, "SLAP!" came a sound from my back.

"Ow!? Hey, why!?"

"...It's nothing."

Why did I get slapped? Confused, I walked up the beach. By the way, I don't see Hinako and the others... Are they all resting?

"You two, over here."

Yuri was sitting under a beach umbrella. She saw us and called out. Narika and I walked over. Hinako and Tennouji-san were nowhere to be seen.

"Just you?"

"Don't say it like I'm a loner. They went to reapply sunscreen. I'm guarding our stuff."

The real loner was right next to me, so I didn't mean it that way.

"So, where'd you two go?"

"We were looking for shade, but couldn't find a good spot."

"Oh, I see. It's hot even under the umbrella..."

Yuri fanned her face. Even I thought my quick excuse was pretty good. Yuri didn't suspect a thing. I got my phone from my bag under the umbrella.

"Narika, got your phone?"

"Y-Yes!"

Narika got her phone from her bag, and I helped her install the messaging app. I glimpsed her contact list. The tiny number of contacts was heartbreaking, but we could work on that. She can definitely make more friends now if she wants.

"And... you're added."

We exchanged IDs. Just then, I saw Hinako and the others coming back. As I was about to put my phone away, it buzzed.

"Hm?"

A message. From Narika.

Narika: I won't lose to anyonenya.

I couldn't help but look up at Narika. She shyly looked away. Her memorable first message had a typo. That's so her. She must not be used to her phone. I vaguely but clearly understood her real meaning. But... I still don't think she needs to compete over this. I replied immediately.

Itsuki: You have your own good pointsnya.

Narika received the message. At first, she looked like she was savoring the joy... then she noticed the "nya"... A moment later, she realized her own typo and let out an "Ah!?"

"I-Itsuki, you jerk.........!"

Right back at you. Don't just spring this on me and make me confused.

◆

We met up with Hinako and the others, who had reapplied their sunscreen, and the group played at the beach again. We chatted idly on the sand, and when we got hot, we went swimming again. This really feels like summer, I thought. What was I doing last year? I was working day and night, so my memory is a bit hazy. But I'll probably remember this summer for the rest of my life.

"I'm getting a little thirsty."

"Then I'll go buy drinks for everyone."

I had been tired from swimming and was relaxing on a float. I'd just recovered my strength, so I got out of the water and took my wallet from my bag.

"Tomonari-kun."

After I put on my sandals, someone spoke to me from behind.

"Huh? Tennouji-san?"

"It'll be hard for you to carry five drinks alone, right? Besides, I'm the one who said I was thirsty."

She said, putting on her own sandals. The two of us headed straight for the vending machines. The closest machine had a short line. Buying five drinks would take time, and it'd be rude to the others waiting. So we walked to a machine further away.

"Itsuki-kun."

When there were fewer people around, Tennouji-san changed how she addressed me.

"...There might be Kiou Academy students nearby."

"Even if there are, at this distance and volume, they won't hear."

Maybe she's right... I gave up and sighed lightly.

"You're pretty bold."

"Yes. I always try to live with a fearless spirit."

True, as far as I know, she's the person who fits that description best. However, even if people couldn't hear us, her appearance draws attention. The phrase "dripping golden drills" flashed in my mind. Her damp, golden hair was beautiful and dazzling, and her slender body was just as impressive as her gorgeous face. I probably shouldn't look directly at her. Even though I'm used to seeing Hinako in a swimsuit, I shouldn't stare.

"My? What's this..."

When we reached the vending machine, Tennouji-san tilted her head. I see. An ojou-sama from Kiou Academy has probably never used a vending machine.

"This is called a vending machine—"

"P-Please don't underestimate me! I know that much!"

"S-Sorry. Of course you'd know."

These days, you see them everywhere just walking down the street. Even just going to school, you see plenty. Thinking about it, it's impossible she wouldn't know. I debated what to drink and settled on a standard sports drink. I thought about picking something weird to mess with everyone, but I'll save that for next time. I handed two cans to Tennouji-san, and I held three. It would have been tough to carry them all. I'm glad she came.

"...?"

Tennouji-san looked confused, staring at the cans in her hands. After carefully examining the lid, side, and bottom, she suddenly had a realization:

"Do I need to buy a can opener separately?"

"Pfft—!!"

That was so unexpected I burst out laughing. She knew about vending machines, but not pull-tab cans.

"Y-You open it like this... hehe."

"—!! Don't laugh!! Stop laughing at me!!"

As I popped the tab and took a drink, Tennouji-san turned bright red. She pounded me with her fists, but it was cute and didn't hurt at all.

"W-We bought all five. Let's go back."

I was trying to hold back my laughter, so my voice was trembling. I started walking with Tennouji-san, who was puffing her cheeks, annoyed. Partway back, she suddenly stopped.

"Itsuki-kun, could we talk for a moment?"

"Talk?"

"Yes. Um... There's something I'd like your advice on."

Looking at her expression, it didn't seem like a light topic. I stopped and waited. She took a deep breath and began:

"This... Yes! It's just a hypothesis!"

It's clearly about her. She's a terrible liar.

"Suppose there is a girl with an i~ncredibly bright future!"

"I~ncredibly."

"Yes. I~ncredibly."

I didn't know how incredible, so I just pictured someone on Tennouji-san's level.

"That girl will one day become a national leader, or hold an equivalent position. But this girl isn't heartless. She secretly wishes for someone to lean on... someone she can rely on."

I nodded for her to continue.

"If... this girl told you she wanted you by her side... Itsuki-kun, what would you think?"

I thought about her question. What do I "think"? I couldn't quite grasp the meaning, so Tennouji-san added:

"To be with this girl, you would, of course, have to overcome many trials. You'd be busy with official duties, failure would not be an option, and you'd have to lead thousands of subordinates..."

Tennouji-san looked at me.

"...Would you feel... pressured?"

Her eyes wavered. Maybe it was the summer heat, but my brain was slow. I finally understood the full picture. She was worried. She knows she stands out. Because of that, she's seriously considered the feelings of the person by her side. It was a line of thinking I couldn't easily relate to. We commoners worry about similar things—that we aren't good enough, that we can't meet expectations, that we can't speak our minds... Kiou Academy students must feel that, too. But Tennouji-san was different.

She understands our hesitation and wants to be considerate of our feelings. And the person on the receiving end isn't an idiot. When someone keeps their distance or acts strangely formal, you notice— That it's not easy to be by their side. (I...) What about me? This person is an equal to Tennouji-san—exceptional, high-status, powerful, and respected. If someone like that asked me to be by their side...

"...I'd probably feel pressured."

That was my honest feeling. Hearing that, Tennouji-san lowered her eyes.

"But... I'd also feel honored."

I continued, and she looked up again. I tried to simulate the situation in my head. As it turned out, it wasn't just worry. Other feelings came up. It's embarrassing to admit... but she probably wouldn't laugh. I organized my thoughts as I spoke:

"As you know, ever since I enrolled at Kiou Academy, every day has been tough. But, strangely enough, I've also enjoyed it."

From the beginning until now, the future will probably be full of challenges, too. But the reason I can face it positively is—

"...It's probably... because I'm proud."

"Proud...?"

"Yes. It's hard, but more than that, I'm proud of my time at Kiou Academy. I'm in a privileged environment, competing with exceptional people... I'm reminded of my own shortcomings every day, but every time I overcome one, I feel a sense of fulfillment."

If I didn't have that, I would have broken down long ago.

"So, the answer to your question is the same."

I met Tennouji-san's gaze and answered:

"So, if I were asked to be by that girl's side... I'd be honored."

Pressure comes from responsibility. And being given responsibility comes from trust. If I were trusted by this "i~ncredibly" promising girl Tennouji-san described, I would definitely be proud.

"...I see."

Tennouji-san nodded calmly. She looked a little happy. I asked what I was wondering:

"Um, Tennouji-san, that girl is you, isn't it...?"

"...No. Because I'm not that promising. Yet."

The fact she said "yet" means she's working on it.

"However, hearing what you just said, I've made up my mind."

She continued, as if enjoying herself:

"I will aim even higher, so high that no one can catch me."

She said, with a fearless smile. Her eyes were burning with an unprecedented fighting spirit.

"Specifically, what are you going to do?"

"I haven't decided. But I think I'll change my approach."

"Approach?"

"I've always wanted to defeat Hinako Konohana... But, frustratingly, she's an ideal for me. A simple, clear goal. However, when we tied on that exam, I suddenly thought... just beating her in academics might not be a true victory."

She continued:

"I don't plan to change my goal of surpassing Hinako Konohana, but I'm thinking I don't need to be obsessed with doing it academically."

Of course, I don't plan on losing in academics, either, she added. She does see Hinako as a rival, but the specific field of competition has always been school exams... academics, grades, that sort of thing. When she tied with Hinako, she felt a sense of accomplishment, but also that something was off. Will I be satisfied if I keep going this way? She had charged forward, glimpsed the finish line, and now was starting to explore other paths.

"Well, I'll figure out what to do later... I want to refine a quality that I have, and she doesn't."

Tennouji-san seemed to be struggling, not having decided on a direction. I wondered if I could help. Her strengths, aside from academics...

"...You're very popular. People look up to you."

I said what came to mind.

"But, she is, too."

"No, it's... different from Konohana-san."

It was hard to express. But there was a clear difference between Hinako and Tennouji-san.

"...It's leadership. Charisma."

The difference between Tennouji-san and Hinako. The answer formed in my mind.

"I think you have charisma. The power to unite a group, or a quality that makes people want to follow you... I think that's a power Konohana-san doesn't have."

In reality, Hinako's personality isn't suited to actively facing crowds. She has the ability, but she finds being in the spotlight stressful. Therefore, the area where Tennouji-san can win is here. Because I know Hinako's true nature, I can say it with confidence. Tennouji-san might be able to shine even brighter than Hinako in her interactions with people.

"...I see."

She nodded at my words.

"Charisma... leading the masses... Yes. Hearing you say it, the path has become clear. Those are definitely my strong suits. Even against Hinako Konohana, I don't think I'd lose."

By putting the vague feeling into words, she clearly recognized her own conviction.

"And... since you're the one who said it, I'm even more confident."

Tennouji-san murmured, looking at me, the fire of determination in her eyes.

"Itsuki-kun, thank you. I've found what I must do."

She bowed to me. There was no longer any hesitation in her voice.

"For now, aiming for Student Council President seems like a good idea."

"Student Council President?"

"My, you didn't know? The school is holding student council elections the month after next. I was planning to sit it out because of my family's work... But I've decided. I'm running."

She seemed to have formed a concrete plan on the spot. Kiou Academy is full of talented people. It must take an incredible effort to become president. Tennouji-san will have her work cut out for her.

"If there's anything I can do, just let me know. I'll help."

"I will. When the time comes, I'll be sure to make you feel completely honored."

She sent me a look of trust. To live up to her expectations, I'd better start working hard, too.

"We should probably get back."

"Right."

We started walking back together.

"By the way, Itsuki-kun, is that red handprint on your back from Hirano-san?"

"Ah— no, Narika's is probably in there too. She slapped me for no reason earlier."

"..."

Hearing that, Tennouji-san looked a bit conflicted.

"...I'd like to sign my name, but I don't have a pen, so I'll let you off. Hup!"

"Ow!?"

She slapped my back. Seriously, why...?

◆

A few minutes after Itsuki and Mirei left for the vending machine. Yuri silently watched them walk back.

"We're back with the drinks."

Itsuki was holding three cans, Mirei two. One was already open; Itsuki must have been drinking it.

(Oho... Something must have happened.)

The distance between Itsuki and Mirei seemed a little closer than before. Mirei had come to Yuri for advice. She must have talked to Itsuki about it. From the looks of it, she got the answer she wanted.

(I pretended not to notice earlier, but it looked like something happened when he was alone with Miyakojima-san too... Both of them managed to take a step forward.)

Yuri had also noticed Itsuki and Narika walking behind the rocks. They'd gotten closer, too. Yuri was rooting for both of them, so this was a relief.

(...Hm?)

She suddenly noticed something was off about Hinako, who was next to her. Hinako always had a kind, approachable smile... but right now, it looked a bit pained.

"Konohana-san, what's wrong?"

"No, I'm fine."

Unlike her words, her expression was still stiff. Her gaze was fixed on the two... on Itsuki and Mirei, who seemed to have gotten closer. As if she were... jealous—

(Why is she making that face...? She doesn't even like Itsuki.)

Yuri tilted her head, confused.

◆

When I came to my senses, it was already dark. Summer days are long, and it's hard to tell when night begins. None of us had noticed evening pass. We'd been too busy having fun. The air got cooler, so we got out of the water. After showering and changing, we regrouped to find a barbecue set waiting for us.

"I've arranged for a barbecue."

Shizune-san said with a polite bow. There was a grill, charcoal, tongs, and a full spread of meat and vegetables. We could start right away.

"I haven't had a barbecue in Japan for a long time."

"In Japan?"

Tennouji-san's comment made me tilt my head.

"In countries like America where house parties are common, you have barbecues often. It's a social occasion."

"I see..."

What an international topic. But, thinking about it, that makes sense. The ojou-samas' influence isn't just domestic. Hinako must have traveled abroad extensively, too.

"By the way, do you grill the meat yourself at these parties?"

"My? Don't barbecue parties have professional chefs to do the grilling?"

"...For us common folk, we do it ourselves."

It wasn't a matter of right or wrong. As I expected, she just misunderstood. Just then, Tennouji-san looked like she was itching to try. Narika looked the same.

"...Should we try grilling it ourselves this time?"

"Y-Yes! I want to try!"

"I-I want to try, too...!"

These ojou-samas are full of curiosity. Not just Tennouji-san, but Narika seemed to have no experience grilling either.

"Then let's all do it together."

Yuri said, her expression determined. If Tennouji-san and Narika had no experience, Hinako probably didn't either. But with Yuri, who serves customers at a diner, we should be fine.

"Then, we will wait at a distance. Please let us know if you require anything."

Shizune-san bowed and left. The beach was connected to a park with a campsite. There was a washing area between them. We carried the ingredients over.

"Okay, first we have to wash the vegetables."

Yuri put her hands on her hips, fired up. Just then, a doubt crossed my mind.

"By the way, forget grilling. Does anyone... have any cooking experience...?"

The ojou-samas all shook their heads. I muttered, Of course... It seems ojou-samas have never cooked.

"...We'll have to work hard."

Yuri murmured after a short silence. She was kind enough not to say, "It's mostly on me." I don't have barbecue experience, but I've stir-fried vegetables in a cheap pan plenty of times. I should actively help. Hinako bowed apologetically to Yuri.

"We are in your hands."

"Okay. But barbecue is just cutting and grilling, it doesn't take much skill... Itsuki and I will handle the knives. Konohana-san and the others, you can do the simple prep. Specifically..."

Yuri quickly gave instructions. She glanced at the ingredients and the aluminum foil.

"...Let's make foil-wrapped potatoes, too. Can you peel those potatoes? And put the washed ones here."

"Okay."

Hinako and the other two ojou-samas picked up the potatoes and peelers. While they handled the potatoes, Yuri and I took care of the other vegetables.

"Yuri, slice the onions?"

"Yep. Ah, grab those king oyster mushrooms."

I handed Yuri the packaged mushrooms. It was a brand I'd never seen; the packaging itself was glittering gold.

"...I've never used ingredients of this quality."

"...Are they really that amazing?"

"Yeah. And the meat is all BMS12."

"BMS...?"

"Basically, the highest grade. There's Chateaubriand, too."

I only knew A5 and B4, but apparently, there are other standards. These onions must be expensive, too. Unlike the mushrooms, they were just in a net, so I couldn't see the brand, but I decided to be extra careful. I cut off the ends first. It makes them easier to peel.

"You're pretty skilled."

"I've done a lot of chores since I was a kid. Cooking and sewing were my jobs."

Come to think of it, Yuri's never seen me cook. When I've been her taste-tester, I offered to help, but she always refused and told me to relax. This felt a little new. I was impressed by Yuri's skill and enjoyed cooking with her.

"Your grades in home economics were always good. The teacher praised you a lot."

Yuri said, cutting vegetables. My memory is hazy, but I remember that, too.

"Come to think of it, Kiou Academy doesn't have home-ec."

"Oh~ 'Cause ojou-samas have maids to cook and sew."

"Right... Thinking about it, of course they can't cook."

I finished slicing the onions. Okay, how are the ojou-samas doing? I went to check, just in case.

"I've got it! You hold it like this!"

"No, from the angle of the blade... I believe you must hold it backhanded."

They hadn't even started peeling. Tennouji-san and Narika were debating how to hold the peeler. Hinako stood silently, tilting her head, sticking her finger through the hole in the handle and twirling it. She was maintaining her perfect ojou-sama image by saying nothing, but the other two clearly didn't know how to use it either.

"...Looks like I'll have to show you."

Tennouji-san's grip was especially dangerous. I glanced at Shizune-san in the distance and saw her anxiously watching us. It was a rare sight, unimaginable given her usual dignity, but if this continued, I'd probably get scolded. I quickly walked over.

"Tomonari-kun! Whose way is correct!?"

"You're all wrong. Hold it like this—"

Tennouji-san and Narika both seemed to think they were right and deflated with an audible "Gaang—!" sound, but I ignored it. I explained in detail how to use the peeler and how to dig out the potato eyes. To an outsider, this probably looked bleak, but I wasn't too worried. They are Kiou Academy ojou-samas. Once they have the correct knowledge, their sharp minds will absorb and apply it instantly. I watched Hinako and the others silently start the prep, then returned to my spot. I'd finished the onions, so I started on the shiitake mushrooms. I cut off the stems and scored the caps. I noticed Yuri staring at me.

"I'm surprised... you're very good at that."

"Good at it? I mean, I'm not as good as you, but I cook a little—"

"No."

Yuri stacked the sliced mushrooms on a plate.

"You're very used to teaching ojou-samas... They were listening so intently. Does this happen often?"

Yuri asked, washing a bell pepper.

"We've shared some pretty intense times. We've built up some trust."

"Whoa... Impressive. You've got Kiou Academy students relying on you."

She held the peppers under the running water.

"...Where did the Itsuki I used to take care of go?"

Yuri murmured, lowering her eyes. Her profile looked a little lonely.

◆

"Alright! The meat's ready!"

The meat, grilled with the vegetables, was finally done. When I approached with my plate, Yuri used the tongs to serve me.

"Delicious!"

"Yes, for some reason, this tastes exceptional!"

The various meats, seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and barbecue sauce, disappeared. The picky ojou-samas were extremely satisfied.

"It was worth the hard work."

"Yes! Konohana-san, that's right! This is the essence of cooking!"

Yuri, the chef, was overjoyed at Hinako's comment.

"Food you work hard on tastes good, right? But it's even better when you give it to someone and they say it's delicious."

Yuri insisted. Hearing this, Tennouji-san and Narika suddenly started grilling.

"Tomonari-kun, the meat is ready."

"Itsuki, the onions are done."

Meat and onions were piled onto my plate. For ojou-samas, just grilling must count as "cooking."

"Uh, they're both delicious."

The two ojou-samas beamed.

"The dishes Hirano-san brought are delicious, too."

"Thanks. It was worth asking for the good ingredients from work."

Hinako's plate held not just grilled meat, but several side dishes Yuri had prepared at the hotel. She thought the barbecue alone might not be enough and had "wanted to practice the skills she learned at work."

"I've keenly felt my own lack of skill, but I am confident in my palate... The ingredients are high quality, of course, but this deep, refined flavor could only come from long study. It conveys your sincerity toward cooking, Hirano-san."

"H-Hehe... Praise like that makes me blush."

Being praised by Tennouji-san, who seems like a real gourmet, made Yuri blush and beam.

"This hamburg steak is excellent, but this meat dish is also delicious. What is it called?"

"That's shogayaki, ginger pork. I'm glad you like it."

"This fried item is also wonderful! It... stimulates the appetite!"

"That's menchi-katsu... Do ojou-samas not eat shogayaki or menchi-katsu?"

Now that Yuri mentioned it, they don't serve those in the Kiou Academy cafeteria. So the ojou-samas might not know these "commoner" foods.

"Tomonari-kun, what do you usually order at Hirano-san's diner?"

"Hm? ...Hamburg steak, menchi-katsu, and shogayaki, I guess."

I answered, following my memory, after Hinako (in Ojou-sama mode) asked. Just then, the lively atmosphere froze. Tennouji-san glanced at Yuri's side dishes and spoke:

"...This is all Tomonari-kun's favorite food."

"Huh!? N-No... I-It's a coincidence! A coincidence!!"

Yuri explained frantically.

"I-I can't help it! He's my taste-tester, so of course my best dishes are the ones he likes!"

I thought that was probably it, but the three ojou-samas just said, "Ooh..." in feigned surprise.

"But this is truly... delicious."

Shizune-san, eating Yuri's food, murmured in admiration.

"With this flavor, I understand why your diner is so popular... The grilled meat is also tender. Miss Hirano, did you do something special?"

"Uh, I used a sauce injector to add apple juice. It was already good meat, so it was less about tenderizing and more about adding flavor."

Yuri said, showing a silver, syringe-like object. She'd explained before grilling. There's a technique to tenderize meat by marinating it, but with this, you can inject the juice into the meat, making it tender in a short time and flavoring thick cuts all the way through.

"...Miss Hirano, you came to Karuizawa to work part-time to hone your cooking skills, correct?"

"Yes..."

"If you are willing, would you consider working for the Konohana family?"

"What!?"

Yuri was dumbfounded. Shizune-san continued:

"You have school on weekdays, so just a few days on the weekend... Even once a week would be fine. If you're willing, please consider it."

Yuri froze at the sudden offer. She turned her stiff neck, almost audibly creaking, and looked at me.

"I-Itsuki... what do I do..."

"No, even if you ask me..."

This was a surprise to me, too. As we both reeled, Shizune-san spoke:

"You don't need to be so formal. For us, it means you have leverage over us. Consider it hush money."

"Leverage... ah, you mean Itsuki."

I was attending Kiou Academy under a false identity. I see. I was starting to understand Shizune-san's angle. Her desire to hire Yuri as a chef was genuine. But she also wanted to bring Yuri, who knows my secret, into the Konohana fold. It's a bad way to put it, but... to corral her. To keep her where she can be seen.

"...I still have my family's diner, so please give me some time to think."

"Understood. I await your reply."

Yuri answered seriously, and Shizune-san nodded. Yuri's family diner is busy. There's a lot to discuss. Still, for Yuri, who wants to improve her skills, it must be an attractive offer. Her eyes were burning with ambition.

After that, we continued eating, finishing all the barbecue and Yuri's dishes.

"Phew, I'm stuffed."

Tennouji-san rubbed her stomach, satisfied.

"Well then, the last event has to be this!"

Yuri said, pulling a large, flat bag from her pack. It was filled with long, thin cylinders. A fireworks set... She'd prepared fireworks at some point.

"Hirano-san, what are...?"

"Huh? You don't know? Fireworks."

"Fireworks are the things that go up in the sky, right? They come out of something this small?"

Hinako and Tennouji-san looked confused. I see. Ojou-samas don't know about normal fireworks.

"These are handheld fireworks... Watch."

Yuri lit the tip with a lighter. After a moment, it burst into yellow sparks.

"It's-It's on fire!? Water! Get water, quickly!!"

"It's fine. You're supposed to watch it like this."

Yuri calmly told the panicked Tennouji-san. Once the ojou-samas understood, they stared silently at the crackling, sputtering sparks.

"It's beautiful."

"...It is."

This must be their first time. Come to think of it, I used to stare at them just like that when I was a kid.

"Narika, you knew about these?"

"Yes. The snack shop I go to sells them in the summer. But this is my first time seeing one lit... It's so colorful and fun."

Narika was also mesmerized.

"There are plenty of others. Enjoy!"

Yuri introduced the various types. As we all lit them, the transparent barrier between commoner and high-society melted into the night. Hinako and the others watched with fascination, just as Yuri and I had as kids. We live in different worlds, but this proved we could share the same feelings.

"Everyone, I've prepared drinks."

Just as we were getting tired, Shizune-san called out.

"I was just getting thirsty."

"Me too. I think I breathed in some smoke."

We were almost out of fireworks. After this, we'd head back to Karuizawa. Even knowing it has to end, you want to stretch it out, to savor every last second. I understand that feeling. These ojou-samas are busy. They don't get many chances to just have fun all day. Their first time at a public beach, their first time grilling, their first time with handheld fireworks... This must have been a great experience for them.

"Huu..."

Hinako stood next to me and let out a long breath. I checked that no one was around and spoke to the "real" Hinako:

"Hinako, you're tired."

"...A little."

She was tired, but she looked fulfilled. She gets tired from acting the perfect ojou-sama, but today she was just tired from playing. We'd been at it all day. Not just Hinako; I was tired, too. I looked around again. Everyone else had gone to get drinks. No one could see us.

"Let's relax for a bit."

"Mhm."

Hinako and I squatted down on the sand.

"...I wanted to feed you, too."

Hinako said sadly. She couldn't be herself while acting. I sympathized with the burden she carries.

"Then, can you make me something when we get back?"

"...Mhm. You can look forward to it."

Hinako said, beaming. Even if it's instant ramen, if she makes it, I'll be happy.

"Were the fireworks fun?"

"Mhm. Fun."

She nodded brightly.

"Have... you done this before?"

"Yeah. But not many times. I never had the time or money."

So, for me, too, it's been a while. I'd forgotten they were this color, I thought.

"But I've played with sparklers a lot."

"Sparklers...?"

"Yeah, wait a sec, I'll get them."

I got a few sparklers from Yuri's bag. I went back to Hinako and lit one.

"You light the tip... and then hold it pointing down."

The fire first spread out like a small flower, then immediately gathered into an orange ball of light. Sparks shot out from the gently swaying orb.

"Ooh..."

"Pretty, right?"

"Mhm. It's a little different from the others... I want to try."

"I figured you'd say that, so I grabbed a bunch. I'll light it."

Letting Hinako light one in this state seemed like a bad idea. "Ooooh..." Hinako stared at the sparkler, her eyes wide.

"Why have you played with these so much?"

"...Well. They're cheap."

I said, a bit vaguely, not wanting to kill the mood. But Hinako didn't seem to mind.

"Sparklers are cheap, and they last longer than other fireworks, so my parents would actually buy them... It was one of my few forms of entertainment, so I'd make one last all day. I'd try to make it last, or shake it to change the shape... That's why they've always been my favorite."

On a side note, my family once tried to use sparklers as candles. It didn't work. We were all depressed. If it had, we could have saved on food money. Including that story, sparklers are part of my memories. As I watched the crackling orb, good memories and bad memories resurfaced. Compared to the past, my life is definitely better now. I don't want to go back. But... I also feel a sense of nostalgia. I want to accept those feelings, even if my past wasn't happy.

"Are these... fireworks full of memories for you?"

Hinako asked, staring at the sparkler.

"...Yeah. I guess so."

They're one of the few memories I have.

"Then I..."

Hinako murmured, staring at her own sparkler. Her beautiful face, illuminated by the orange light, slowly turned to me. She smiled.

"I... love this one the most, too."

Hinako said with a gentle smile. Her face—was somehow sweeter than usual. The sound of the tide and the crackling of the sparkler suddenly faded away. All I could see was Hinako's ethereal, soft smile, lit by the flickering flame. My heartbeat was calm. But I couldn't think straight. I wanted to keep looking at her face. The nostalgic melancholy I'd been feeling was replaced by a warmer, gentler emotion.

"You two—! The drinks are getting warm—!!"

Tennouji-san's loud voice snapped me back. Hinako was already completely back to normal. I was thirsty, too, so I decided to join the others.

"Let's go."

"Mhm... Hug."

"Someone might see. Not now."

"Tch..."

Hinako tries to get affection at every opportunity. I gave a wry smile. In that atmosphere, I'd almost given in. We started walking together. On the way, I almost subconsciously covered my back with my hands.

"...Itsuki?"

"Ah, no. My back's been slapped a lot today. I don't know why, but where Yuri hit me, Narika and Tennouji-san also..."

"Ooh..."

Because it kept happening, I was reflexively protecting myself. Hinako seemed to think for a moment, then said:

"...The swimsuit you're wearing. Which store did you buy it from?"

"A Konohana Group brand store, I think..."

I replied, thinking back to the store we'd stopped at.

"Where do you usually live?"

"The Konohana mansion."

"Who do you usually work alongside?"

"You, of course."

What's she asking? I wondered. She nodded, satisfied.

"It's my complete victory... No need to worry."

"?"

I didn't get it, but it seemed like she didn't want to hit my back. Oh well. The others didn't hit hard, so it's fine... No, Narika's was kind of painful.

"Itsuki... How do you see Hirano-san?"

Hinako suddenly asked.

"Even if you ask, she's my childhood friend. That's all."

When I answered, she made a strange face. She didn't like my answer... or rather, she looked frustrated that she couldn't ask what she really wanted to.

"...Do you want to see your old friends?"

She asked again. The meaning was a little different.

"Well... sometimes."

"...I see."

This time, Hinako seemed satisfied and said no more. We were getting close to the others, so Hinako switched on her Ojou-sama mode. I watched her straightened back and tilted my head, confused. What was that all about?

◆

Yuri held the drink in her mouth. It seemed to be a homemade sports drink, with a refreshing citrus aroma and light sweetness. The drink prepared by the Konohana maid, Shizune, was in what looked like an expensive glass. Not a plastic bottle or paper cup. It showed the unique, unhurried elegance of the upper class.

"Huh? Where'd Itsuki and Konohana-san go?"

After a sip, Yuri realized they weren't nearby.

"...Come to think of it, I don't see them."

"I'll go find them."

Yuri took two glasses and went to find them. When the fireworks started, it wasn't this dark. But now, the night was so deep you could only see a few meters. Clouds were blocking the moon. But, guided by the light of the fireworks, she found them easily. The sparklers illuminated their faces. They didn't notice Yuri approaching. They were lit by the sparks, but Yuri was hidden by the night. They couldn't see her. Yuri was about to bring them the drinks, but when she saw their profiles—she stopped.

(...Ah.)

Hinako's face, lit by the sparks, was calmer than Yuri had ever seen. It wasn't just a kind face. It was loving, savoring the moment, with a serenity like someone half-asleep... Yuri had only just met her, but she knew this was a special expression. In that instant, she knew.

(I see... Konohana-san, too.)

She realized Hinako's true feelings. The feet that had been walking toward them now turned away. She felt it was better not to approach.

"...Huh?"

She suddenly felt her feet grow heavy. The sea breeze felt colder than before. The sticky feeling on her skin was unpleasant. Itsuki certainly had qualities that made girls like him. But... that so many girls were attracted to him... she hadn't expected this.

(What... is this feeling?)

Her heart ached.

The Itsuki she knew was a boy who still had a touch of awkwardness.

The Itsuki she knew got more nervous when talking to girls.

His body, too.

The Itsuki she knew wasn't this fit.

Looking closely, his posture was strange.

The Itsuki she knew didn't stand up that straight.

A few days ago, when she'd fed him in her room, she thought he was the same as ever—but as they spent time together, she saw, bit by bit, that he wasn't. The Itsuki she knew and the Itsuki in reality wouldn't overlap. The real Itsuki seemed to have no flaws left—

"...No."

That can't be right. She forced herself to merge the Itsuki in her mind and the Itsuki in reality. Itsuki is a 'good person.' He's undeniably likable. But he has to have flaws.

If he doesn't... then I—

The reason for Yuri Hirano's existence is—

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