Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 5 Chapter 2

The Man Who Can Read Minds

Dawnlight streamed through the gap in the curtains. When I woke up, at first, something felt off. The texture beneath my body was different from my usual bed.

"...Right."

This isn't the Konohana mansion. By the time I came to my senses, I realized that my "daily life" was no longer this house, but had instead shifted to my days at the mansion. I wavered between a sense of unfamiliarity and familiarity as my brain slowly woke up. Although this room had been cleaned and repaired a little, the view from lying down was almost just as I remembered. Before me was the ceiling I had seen thousands of times since childhood.

"You're up."

Someone spoke to me as I headed to the sink to wash my face and brush my teeth. I turned my head and saw Shizune-san, dressed in home clothes, looking at me.

"Good morning. You're up early."

"It's habit. I'd say you're the one who's early."

The time was 7 AM. If I didn't have any plans, I could sleep in a little more, but I had also woken up out of habit. Ever since I started high school and began working, I'd often wake up at this time, mainly for my paper route.

"Shizune-san, do you have work today, too?"

"Yes, but starting in the afternoon."

It seemed she could rest this morning. That's good. She'll be able to relieve some stress today.

"Should I wake Hinako?"

"...Let's let her sleep in today. She seemed to work hard yesterday."

I felt the same way. I walked slowly to the sink, minimizing the creaking of the floor. After I washed my face, I looked at Shizune-san again and couldn't help but freeze up a little.

"What is it?"

"Nothing. It's just... it's a fresh sight."

Basically, Shizune-san is always in her maid uniform, so seeing her in other clothes is quite rare. Hinako likes sweet, frilly loungewear, but Shizune-san was different, wearing a simple knit sweater.

"...Please don't stare."

Her reaction was also quite fresh, which made me curious, but I felt she'd get angry if I kept looking, so I averted my gaze. Shizune-san slightly adjusted the partition, widening the shared living space.

"Alright, I'll go make breakfast."

"Ah, I already made something simple."

"Oh?"

"I made it yesterday while the curry was cooking. But it's really simple."

I said, opening the refrigerator. I took out the plate I had prepared.

"It's sandwiches. Tuna and fried egg."

I had made them while looking up a recipe on my phone as the curry simmered.

"Thank you."

I had made three servings, so I sat down across from Shizune-san and started eating, too. There was a serving for Hinako, but she'd probably sleep until noon. I'll just eat it. I may be patting myself on the back, but the sandwiches tasted pretty good. It was mostly thanks to the ingredients, though. There was high-grade canned tuna and high-grade bread, so I just used them.

"You're going to see the school today, right?"

"That's the plan."

"If you run into your classmates, have you thought about how you'll explain this situation?"

I hadn't thought about it at all. After all, I transferred at an awkward time. If I ran into them, they'd definitely ask what I've been up to. I have to think of an explanation... If my first priority is not causing trouble for the Konohana family, maybe it's better not to meet them. After all, no matter what I say, there's always a chance I'll slip up.

"...Would it be better if we didn't go?"

"If we are being extremely cautious, that would be best. But if we were to enforce that principle, you'd have to cut ties with everyone you've ever known. That's too much to bear, which is why Master Kagen approved it."

Even if it's for the Konohana family, the idea of having to cut off all my old friends... I'd definitely resist.

"You can tell them you're attending Kiou Academy. But your relationship with Ojou-sama is just that of a normal classmate."

"Then what's my reason for attending Kiou Academy?"

"Just say you were adopted."

The cover story about being adopted by the president of a mid-level IT company seems to be useful here, too.

"We've both gotten used to it, haven't we."

I gave a wry smile at her words. I feel like I've become a swindler. I glanced at Shizune-san and saw she had stopped eating. Did it taste bad? I thought it was fine, but compared to the meals at the mansion, it's obviously inferior.

"I'm sorry, did it not suit your taste?"

"Not at all... I was just thinking that a breakfast like this is nice, once in a while."

She said, a faint smile appearing. Shizune-san ate the sandwich slowly, chewing carefully. It didn't seem like she was lying.

"What was your life like before you became a maid?"

"Very normal. My family was reasonably well-off, and I went to a decent school, but my standard of living was the same as any other family's... So I'm very used to breakfasts like this."

That was the first I'd heard of it. Then again, I don't really get many chances to talk with Shizune-san one-on-one. There's still a lot I don't know about her.

"Thank you for the meal. It was delicious."

Shizune-san finished her breakfast with an elegance that rivaled Hinako's ojou-sama act, and silently pushed back her chair. She stood up, stacking my empty plate onto her own.

"Let me at least wash the dishes."

"I'll help."

"It's only two plates. I can handle it."

She moved deftly into the kitchen. She immediately dried the washed plates with a clean cloth and put them in the cabinet. I picked up one of the plates to look at it.

"...It's sparkling clean."

Amazing. Depending on your skill, even washing dishes can be completely different.

"I won't lose to you just yet."

"...I don't think I'll ever be able to beat you."

"That's right. I don't plan on losing."

I said it half-jokingly, but Shizune-san affirmed it as a matter of course. But her expression seemed faintly amused.

I focused on studying until after noon. I'd check on Hinako occasionally, but since she didn't get up, she must be sound asleep. I thought she might have trouble sleeping on a futon so different from her fluffy bed at the mansion, but then again, she's the type who can fall asleep anywhere, anytime, so it's probably fine. Shizune-san said she had work in the afternoon, but she'd left in the morning to consult with the bodyguards and hadn't been back for about three hours... Was she perhaps being considerate, letting me have time alone? Thanks to them, I was able to study in peace. I finished half of my review and prep. I'll do the other half tonight—

◆

At 4 PM. Hinako and I headed to the high school I used to attend.

"We're here."

Just walking the route to school filled me with nostalgia, but standing in front of the gate, an indescribable emotion washed over me.

"This is the school you used to...?"

"Yeah."

The gate was painted green. Behind it were the sports field and the school building. The high school I attended for one year was right in front of me. Compared to the elementary and middle schools I'd attended for three years, I was only here for one. But seeing it in person, a surprising number of memories came flooding back. Cramming for exams, fighting off sleep... the sports festival where I'd pushed myself to the limit... Come to think of it, those were all things I experienced here in my first year.

"What do you think of a 'normal' school?"

I asked Hinako, who was beside me. Hinako stared blankly at the school and replied:

"...It's small."

"...This is a normal size."

It's Kiou Academy that's way too big. Compared to Kiou Academy, this school is naturally small. To be frank, it's also a little dirty. Why are school signs and crosswalks always so worn out? The paint on the gate is peeling, too. Private schools might be different, but most public schools look like this.

"Is middle school... like this, too?"

"Yeah. Middle school and elementary school mostly have this kind of atmosphere."

Compared to Kiou Academy, any other school would be about the same. It really makes me appreciate how unique that school is.

"It looks small, but it's surprisingly big enough. This school doesn't have a cafeteria or an ornamental garden."

Kiou Academy has all sorts of facilities that normal schools don't. Not only that, but its library and gymnasium are huge. That's because, compared to a normal school, Kiou offers a wider range of subjects and sports, so the campus has to be vast. However, for a normal student, this much space is sufficient. When I attended this school, as a student, I never felt inconvenienced. The learning environment was all there, the atmosphere wasn't bad, and it allowed a poor student like me to live a stable, everyday life.

"You... went to school here."

As I was lost in nostalgia, Hinako murmured beside me, sounding a little sad. Her slender hand gently touched the bars of the school gate.

"Has school... started already?"

"Not yet, it's still summer break. The people here now are probably students here for club activities."

Just from what I could see on the field, the track, handball, and baseball clubs were practicing. If you listened closely, you could hear brass instruments, so the wind ensemble must be practicing in the school building.

"Were you in a club?"

"No, I was in the Go-Home Club."

"Go-Home Club?"

"It means I didn't join any clubs."

"...It's called a club, but it's not a club?"

Hinako tilted her head, completely confused. It seems "go-home club" isn't in an ojou-sama's vocabulary.

"...Itsuki?"

Just then, someone spoke to me. I think I know that voice, I thought, turning my head—

"Oh, it's Itsuki!"

"Hey, no way!? Long time no see!"

Four people—two guys and two girls—had approached us. Seeing their faces, I recognized them immediately. They were my former classmates—from my old class.

"...Long time no see. What are you guys up to?"

"We were just chilling in the park, playing games. We just ate and were heading home, but figured we'd stop by the school."

"We were studying in the library. We ran into them on the way back."

It seems they'd just met up, too. That explains why the guys are in casual clothes and the girls are in uniform.

"Anyway! Where the hell did you go!?"

"Yeah! You just vanished when second year started! It freaked me out!"

The four of them crowded me with questions.

"Hahaha, sorry..."

It turned into this, just as I thought. I wanted to brush it off, but it doesn't seem like it'll be that simple. Oh well, it can't be helped. If our positions were reversed, I'd definitely be asking questions.

"By the way, this girl is...?"

Hinako's presence made the four of them temporarily calm down. One of the girls asked, and the other three also looked at Hinako. Hinako activated her ojou-sama mode and smiled brightly.

"Hello, everyone. My name is Hinako Konohana."

The guys made strange noises. It wasn't just the guys. The girls were also mesmerized by Hinako's elegant and lovely demeanor. Even Kiou students see Hinako as a "flower on a high peak" [an unreachable goddess]. So for us commoners, her every move was beautiful enough to make you lose your senses for a moment.

"I-Itsuki, get over here!"

The guys, regaining their senses, grabbed my arm.

"Dude! Who is that super hot girl!?"

"Where'd you meet her!? Tell us! And introduce me!"

They really haven't changed...

"Guys are the worst."

"...Well, I get it, though."

The girls looked at the boys, who were captivated by Hinako's beauty, with disdain. Even so, they also acknowledged Hinako's exceptional aura. I thought, Now's the time to explain, and spoke to the four of them:

"Actually, I go to Kiou Academy now."

"You mean the Kiou Academy!? That super-elite school!?"

"The one only rich kids can go to!?"

I nodded. Like me, Kiou Academy's reputation was known to everyone.

"I'm sure you guys know my family situation wasn't great, so I was supposed to drop out. But someone asked me if I wanted to be adopted by a company president. Because of that, I ended up at Kiou."

"Adopted... That stuff really happens."

Mine was fake, but Tennouji-san's case proved it was real.

"And this is Konohana-san. She's my classmate at Kiou."

Hinako nodded silently. Anyway, that should answer all their questions.

"Are you really just classmates~?"

"Really, just classmates. We ran into each other by chance, and I figured it was a rare opportunity, so I'm showing her my old neighborhood."

I'm not going to mention we're living together. I've gotten used to hiding the truth. I said it without batting an eye. In response, my former classmates said, "Ooh~" and looked back and forth between me and Hinako, half-convinced.

"Kiou Academy, huh... Well, that's way better than the worst-case scenario we imagined."

"Worst-case scenario?"

I tilted my head, confused. The guys nodded, "Yeah."

"You left without a trace, so the rumors got wild. That you'd gone to work on a tuna boat, or were living off the land in the Amazon."

"What is that..."

No, wait. When I met Yuri at the summer lecture, she said the same thing. There was even a weird rumor I'd been sold at a slave auction.

"It's hard to talk here. I'm heading to this guy's house. You wanna come?"

"No, you come. It's been forever. I'll treat you."

The guys invited me. Meanwhile, the girls approached Hinako.

"You're Konohana-san, right? Hey, if it's okay, you wanna grab a bite with us!?"

"Yeah, yeah! We have so many questions!"

"Uh, um. I..."

Setting me aside, Hinako was in her ojou-sama mode, making it hard to refuse. Unlike the elegant students at Kiou, these normal high school students, for better or worse, don't have those reservations. It's normal for me, but to Hinako, it must feel very aggressive.

"Hey—!"

Just then, a high-pitched voice called from a distance. I turned toward the sound and saw a bean-sized figure. The figure approaching was a girl I knew well.

"Oh, it's Hirano!"

"Yuri! Long time no see~!"

"Yeah, yeah, long time—"

My former classmates greeted Yuri before I could. Come to think of it, it's summer break. This might be a reunion for them, too. Yuri immediately stepped between us and my former classmates.

"You're crowding them. They're going to feel awkward. Setting Itsuki aside, Konohana-san isn't used to this."

That "Setting Itsuki aside" was unnecessary.

"Huh? Yuri, you know Konohana-san?"

"I met her by chance at my part-time job."

"Oh~ Karuizawa, right? I guess it's not weird for an ojou-sama to be there."

Everyone seemed to know Yuri had worked at a resort.

"Anyway, these two are coming to my place later. Let's hang out next time."

"Eeh~! Don't hog them~!"

Yuri waved her hand, shooing my classmates away. On their way out, the two guys secretly came over and pulled me aside.

"Itsuki, Hirano-san acts like that, but she's actually really lonely."

"...Seems so."

I vaguely sensed that when we reunited at the summer lecture. Yuri seemed to treasure her time with me more than I thought.

"If you're too cold to her, I'm gonna snatch her up~"

"I'm already reflecting on it, so stop joking like that."

This guy's still talking nonsense, I thought, sighing. For some reason, they both widened their eyes. As if to say my reaction was strange.

"Just so you know, Hirano-san is really popular."

"Huh?"

What did you say...?

"Don't 'huh' me. She's easy-going with everyone, she really listens when you talk to her, and she's good at breaking up situations like just now. Of course she's popular."

"Yeah. And she's super cute, too."

The other guy nodded in agreement.

"Is that so..."

Now that they mention it, Yuri might just be a bundle of factors that make her popular with guys. In addition to what they said, she's a great cook, reliable, and has high 'girl power.' I knew she was liked by everyone, guys and girls, but I never thought about it in a romantic sense.

"Itsuki, what are you doing?"

"N-Nothing!"

Yuri called. I brushed her off and walked over. I purposefully ignored the sly grins my bad friends gave me as they left.

"...Phew. Now we can relax."

Once we were alone, Yuri said.

"Yuri, thanks. But why are you here—"

"What do you mean 'why'!? Today was my first day of work at the Konohana house, so I was really looking forward to it! But when I got there, you were gone!!"

Oh... right. Come to think of it, that was the plan. For Yuri, today was her memorable first day. Since it was a special occasion, we'd promised to go back with her and stop by her place.

"...Huh? Didn't I tell you to meet at your house instead?"

"Hey, no way."

Yuri hurriedly pulled out her phone.

"...I was too excited and missed it."

"You..."

I also took out my phone, just in case. Looking closely, she hadn't read it. Maybe I should have messaged her again when she didn't respond?

"W-Well, anyway! After I finished, I asked Shizune-san where you were, and... you're staying at your old house."

"Yeah, temporarily."

"I see~ You can tell me the details later."

Yuri and I both live within walking distance of the school, so we've hung out in this area since elementary school. I chose this high school to save on transport fees. Luckily, its academic rank wasn't bad, so Yuri chose it, too. We walked, looking at the familiar townscape.

"That cafe wasn't there before, was it?"

"It moved. It used to be in the station shopping center."

"Oh, that one. What's in its old spot?"

"A bakery. There's a huge line in the evening."

It's right by the station, so people probably stop by on their way home from work or school. Even though it's only been a few months, this area is changing. It was probably like this before I went to Kiou Academy, too. I just didn't notice because I was in the middle of it. It's only when you step away and look back that you notice the differences.

"Okay, we're almost there."

We passed through yesterday's shopping street and walked a bit past the station. I saw a familiar shop.

"Welcome to Hiramaru Diner!!"

Yuri welcomed us energetically. It was 5 PM. The diner wasn't full, so we relaxed for a bit, waiting until after sunset to eat. I was getting hungry, too. The smells from the kitchen stimulated my empty stomach. It's been a while since I've been in this atmosphere, smelled these smells.

"Two ginger pork sets, coming up."

We waited a few minutes, and Yuri—wearing an apron with the diner's name over her casual clothes—brought our food.

"Thanks."

"Itsuki, you're not having the hamburg steak?"

"I had it at the summer lecture. I want something else today."

Yuri also brought ginger pork to the barbecue, but the ojou-samas ate it all. I didn't get a single bite.

"Let's eat."

I clasped my hands and started my meal. I put the sauce-covered pork on top of the white rice and shoveled it into my mouth.

"Mhm. Still delicious. Did you make this, Yuri?"

"I only made the soup. Dad made almost everything else."

In that case, I'll try the soup. The soup at Hiramaru Diner varies, but the ginger pork set came with a simple soup with green onions and wakame. Since the pork is strong, it's paired with a light soup. It was easy to drink and stimulated my appetite.

"This is delicious."

"You don't have to praise me... but I'm happy."

She seemed secretly pleased. It was genuinely good, which made me want to compliment her. It wasn't just flattery.

"Konohana-san? I hope it suits your taste."

"It's very delicious. This is... truly delicious... so good."

Crap. It was so good, Hinako's true self is showing. Luckily, Yuri didn't notice Hinako's change and just said "Great!" in relief.

"I'll eat, too... Dad, one fried oyster set!"

"Got it!"

Yuri's father called back from the kitchen.

"Yuri, how was work today?"

"Tough. In many ways... Shizune-san is super strict when it comes to work."

"Yeah... she is."

Finally, someone who understands that strictness... I nodded deeply, filled with emotion.

"But! I learned a tooooon!"

Yuri's eyes sparkled.

"I've never cooked in a kitchen that high-class. I got a taste of it at the resort, but the Konohana house has its own standards. The spices are all precisely calculated. They know the ingredients like scientists... They even change the temperature of the plates. I knew about the technique, but it's the first time I've seen anyone actually do it."

She seemed to have had a good experience. Yuri is a perfectionist when it comes to cooking. She's greedy for knowledge. It's rare to see her this excited.

"Here you go, one fried oyster set!"

"Thanks."

Yuri gave a simple 'thanks' to her father. Then, her father looked at my plate.

"Itsuki, that's not enough! Here, extra meat! Eat, eat!"

"Th-Thank you..."

I looked at the ginger pork piling up on my plate, feeling anxious. Can I finish this...?

"Dad, you're bothering him."

"Shut up. A man's gotta eat enough to feel a little bothered."

Yuri's father said, then stared at my face.

"But, Itsuki, you've gotten stronger."

"Have I?"

"Yeah. You've got more muscle. And your eyes have more spirit."

"My eyes...?"

I asked. Yuri's father nodded firmly.

"I was worried when you vanished, but it looks like you're living a fulfilling life."

He finished, looking relieved. I put down my chopsticks and bowed.

"Yes... I'm sorry for making you worry."

Yuri's father is old-fashioned, but he's kind. I respect him. If he's giving me this much pork, I'll eat it all... even if it's too much. He'd do this for any high school boy, not just me. He's not the type to play favorites in his own shop. That's why Yuri grew up to be so cheerful and kind. They accepted my family, even with my problematic parents. I'm so grateful to them.

"Well, I wasn't that worried. But Yuri..."

"Yes... I apologized to her properly."

"She was so down when she couldn't see you. I'd peek into her room, and she'd be squatting in the corner, muttering, 'Did I say something weird?' 'Is he avoiding me?'..."

"Waaaaaaaaaaaaah! Dad!! Shut up!!"

"Whoops, rice is ready."

Yuri's father, faced with his blushing, angry daughter, skillfully escaped. Yuri just glared at me silently. I bowed deeply.

"Um... I'm really sorry for making you worry."

"...It's fine. You already apologized at the summer lecture. Sheesh, my dad... he just runs his mouth..."

Yuri sighed. Seeing her, I couldn't help but smile.

"It's been a while since I saw you two bicker."

"...Yeah. I'm glad we can bicker like this again."

Yuri's mood seemed to lift, and she smiled faintly. Just then, I glanced at Hinako... and saw her expression was a little lonely.

"Konohana-san?"

"...Yes? What is it?"

Hearing me, Hinako turned, her usual elegant smile in place. I felt a little melancholy from her, but maybe I was imagining it. "Nothing," I said, shaking my head. Across from me, Yuri was staring intently at Hinako.

◆

After finishing her meal, Yuri went back to the kitchen to help. Itsuki and Hinako were in a back booth, chatting and laughing happily. Itsuki kept rubbing his stomach. That's definitely 'cause Dad gave him too much, Yuri thought. Probably better to let him rest.

Yuri's father, on his break, suddenly walked over to the two. Itsuki and her father struck up a lively conversation about the past. Hinako sat beside them, smiling gently, not interrupting.

(...Itsuki reeeeeeally doesn't deserve her.)

Hinako was cute, elegant, and graceful. Like an unreachable goddess. Yuri thought this every time she saw her. But, it seems their relationship hasn't progressed at all since the summer lecture. Hinako seems like she can do anything, but she's average at expressing herself.

"Konohana-san, come over here."

Yuri beckoned to Hinako. Hinako tilted her head, confused, but still walked over.

"What is it?"

"Once those two start talking, they don't stop. Wanna chat with me?"

"Chat?"

"Yeah. Girl talk."

Yuri called out, "I'm taking a break—!" and took off her apron. A hearty "Sure—!" came from the kitchen. It was the new part-time woman. She was reliable.

"Follow me."

Yuri led Hinako to the back of the diner. Up the stairs, there were two doors. Yuri opened the one on the left and invited Hinako into her room.

"Sorry, it's messy. I was trying to figure out what to wear to your house this morning and tore my closet apart."

"No, it's fine."

Hinako said, looking around, fascinated. Yuri had just seared the Konohana mansion's interior into her memory, but this was a world apart. For a commoner, it was a normal room, but for an ojou-sama...

"This photo..."

Hinako suddenly stared at a photo on the desk. In it, Yuri and Itsuki were in gym clothes, wearing headbands.

"That's from our elementary school sports festival... I was still faster than him back then."

"Is that so?"

"Itsuki only got good at sports in the upper grades. Before that, he was pretty clumsy."

Hinako listened with interest. Just then, Yuri made an offer:

"Want to see? Itsuki's photo."

"Since it's such a rare opportunity, I'd be delighted to."

Does she think saying 'rare opportunity' hides how she really feels...? Yuri thought, but she was also excited—Finally, a chance to show off my secret 'Itsuki Collection' (aka photo album)!—and opened her desk drawer. She took an album from the top drawer. When she opened it, Hinako stared intently.

"This is..."

"Parent-Teacher Visit Day in middle school."

"Parent-Teacher Visit Day?"

"Does Kiou Academy not have it? It's when parents come to see their kids in class..."

"No. Our parents are usually busy."

I see. That makes sense, Yuri thought. Itsuki's parents never came, either. But it definitely wasn't because they were "busy."

"Tomonari-kun at this time... how do I put it..."

Hinako looked at the photo, puzzled.

"His eyes look... kind of sharp, don't they?"

"Y-Yes."

"Looking back, he was so frustrated and depressed then. Once you get to middle school, you're forced to see the difference between your family's finances and everyone else's."

Whether it was visiting day or sports festivals, Itsuki had many chances to see other kids' parents. Even if he didn't care in elementary school, as a sensitive middle schooler, it was different.

"But look, he'd make this cute face sometimes."

"That... is cute."

"I made him a cake for his birthday. He was happier than I ever imagined."

It was a photo of Itsuki, grinning, his mouth stuffed with cake. At first, Yuri and her family were just happy to see him so happy. But when he told them, "This is the first time I've ever had a birthday cake," they almost cried for all sorts of reasons. Oh well. It was a good memory.

"Is this the high school from just now?"

"Yep. This is from the entrance ceremony."

Yuri and Itsuki were posing by the school gate. He had no idea he'd end up at Kiou Academy...

"Tomonari-kun... looks sleepy."

"The idiot scheduled a paper route on the day of the ceremony. He was sleep-deprived and nodding off the whole time."

I told him, "You're an idiot," and he said, "Yeah, I am." It's those airheaded parts of him that make you want to take care of him.

"I've got more on my phone."

Yuri opened her photo gallery.

"Ah, this is recent."

"Yeah. This was in the classroom six months ago."

"His face... he looks upset?"

"Good eye. He'd just gotten a bad score on an exam."

The two girls chatted for a while. Hinako stared at Yuri's phone screen with great interest.

"Hirano-san, do you take photos with Tomonari-kun often?"

"Yeah. I guess... his parents didn't care about that stuff, or maybe they didn't have a camera... So my parents took a lot of his pictures instead."

Because of that, I'd get them developed and give Itsuki copies, too.

"That said, it was just my family meddling. I don't know what Itsuki thinks about it."

Yuri said with a faint smile.

Itsuki wasn't very concerned with his own affairs. When she gave him the photos, he seemed genuinely grateful, but in reality, she didn't know his true feelings.

"...I think he really treasures these photos."

Hinako said in a gentle tone. Hinako recalled—the other day, when she borrowed the e-dictionary from Itsuki, he had opened his desk drawer. She had briefly glimpsed inside.

"Tomonari-kun keeps all these photos in the top drawer of his current desk... He must think they're very precious."

"...Is that so."

Itsuki and Yuri both kept the photos in the same place. Itsuki must also cherish his past memories.

"Tomonari-kun looks so happy."

Hinako said, looking at the Itsuki in the photo, her voice somewhat faint and weak. Yuri looked at her profile, not understanding. Why was she making that kind of expression? Compared to the summer lecture, Hinako seemed to have a gloomy expression more often now. As if—her distance from Itsuki had grown even wider.

"...If we keep looking at photos, we'll forget the main topic."

Yuri said, looking at Hinako's expression, remembering why she'd brought her to her room.

"Um, what I wanted to ask was, has everything been okay lately..."

"Okay...?"

Hinako tilted her head in confusion. Yuri had a complicated expression. How should I put this? Even if I beat around the bush, this innocent ojou-sama probably won't get it...

"Uh, well... do you remember what I said at the end of the summer lecture? Thinking back, I feel like I was really being nosy..."

Yuri said, letting out a dry "ahaha" laugh. In reality, though she thought it was nosy—she didn't regret it. She felt at the time that she had to say it. Hinako hadn't noticed her own feelings, always seemed to be getting hurt in a clumsy way, and Yuri couldn't just stand by and watch a girl like that. Still, if it made her worry more, it would defeat the purpose. Yuri had hoped that when she met Hinako again, she would be clear-headed and free from her doubts, but in reality, she seemed even more troubled than before.

"...About that. I actually wanted to ask for your advice."

"Mhm, go ahead."

Yuri waited for Hinako to continue. Hinako spoke slowly:

"What... does it mean... to 'like' someone?"

Yuri's brain crashed.

"............What... does it... mean?"

In this day and age, with countless manga and dramas about love, to think there was someone in the world who would ask that... Hinako asked with such innocent eyes that Yuri was the one who started to feel embarrassed, her cheeks turning red. This was a pure, untouched, sheltered ojou-sama who seemed to exist only in the world of manga and drama. It was so exaggerated that you'd almost think she was faking it.

"Hold on... let me think of a good way to explain."

She could just give her a dictionary definition, but that wasn't what this innocent girl wanted to know. How do you explain 'like' and 'love'? Yuri agonized for several minutes, but in the end, she couldn't come up with an answer.

◆

After we were full, we left Yuri's family diner. I said goodbye to Yuri's father, and chatted with Yuri in front of the diner for a moment.

"Konohana-san, let's put a pin in that for now. If I think of anything, I'll contact you."

"Okay. I'll be waiting."

What was that...? I knew they had left their seats while I was talking to Yuri's father. Maybe they were discussing something.

"What did you and Yuri talk about?"

"Mmm... a secret."

If she says so, I shouldn't press her... I tried to accept it, but frankly, I was curious. It's precisely because she usually tells me everything, including things I don't need to know, that it makes me uneasy when she has a secret.

"Itsuki... are you close with Hirano-san's father?"

"I guess so. He's always looked out for me, and I've worked part-time at their place... He's probably been more of a parent to me than my own."

At my high school entrance ceremony, I took a photo with Yuri's family, not my own. Because of that, Yuri's home feels... very warm to me. I can feel a cozy, comfortable atmosphere there that I rarely experienced in my own home.

(...I'm so envious.)

It was a feeling I had forgotten for a long time, but it was awake again. When I see a happy, close-knit family, I can't help but feel a little envious. Eating together, chatting animatedly... I long for that warm proximity.

For example, when I open my front door, someone warmly welcoming me with an "Okaeri" [Welcome home]... I used to dream of that. I've accepted my circumstances, but sometimes this feeling just wells up. It's like a chronic illness... it just suddenly flares up.

"I'm home."

When I opened the front door, I said it subconsciously. Even though no one will answer... just as I thought that.

"Welcome home."

Shizune-san, who was in the kitchen washing dishes, turned her head and said.

"What is it?"

"...No, it's nothing..."

Shizune-san tilted her head, confused. I looked away for a moment. Those were the words my heart was craving most. I thought they were impossible to hear, but suddenly my wish was granted, and my mind went blank. I suppressed the thin film of tears in my eyes and looked at Shizune-san.

"Um... I just think... it's nice to have someone home."

"...I understand how you feel."

Shizune-san smiled gently. I finally realized why I had, without knowing, forgotten that "envy" for a happy family. It's because living with Hinako and the others has filled my heart.

"I'll help with the dishes."

"You just got back. You can rest."

"No, please let me help."

After I said that, Shizune-san looked puzzled, but she still nodded. "Well, if you insist." This place, too, has a warm, comfortable atmosphere. The fact that I can feel that way now makes me happier than anything.

◆

Shizune-san finished the last plate and skillfully put it away. It seemed she had work for the Konohana family to do next, which I couldn't help with. I had finished my homework for the day, and with nothing to do, I decided to take it easy.

"Ojou-sama, shall I run your bath?"

Shizune-san asked, looking at the clock as she worked.

"Mmm... it's hot today. I'll wash tomorrow..."

"You will not."

Hinako groaned, "Eeh..." But I understood how she felt.

"The air conditioning in this room is pretty weak."

It's late August, so it should be cooling down, but the nights are still muggy.

"I want ice cream~..."

"...I'll go buy some."

I'm free, anyway. I was about to ask, "Want to come?" but she's been out for long periods several days in a row and looked exhausted. It's dark, too. I'll go alone.

"Shizune-san, I'm going to the convenience store."

"Understood. It's getting late, so please be careful if you decide to wander."

The subtext was: I'll allow you to wander a bit, but you're responsible for yourself. What a Shizune-san way to put it... She must have seen right through my desire to enjoy the night in my old hometown. I went outside and headed for the convenience store.

"...This scenery hasn't changed at all."

The residential area at night is dead silent, almost to the point of being a little scary. As if to shake off that fear, I felt strangely excited. I'd often feel this way when coming home late from a night shift. I haven't walked the streets at night since becoming an attendant. I re-acquainted myself with the dim yellow streetlights and the sound of my own footsteps. I wound through the narrow alleys and found the convenience store. I remember when I started high school, I really wanted to work here since it was so close, but they weren't hiring.

When I walked in, the cool air of the AC hit my skin. I headed for the ice cream freezer. On the way, I passed a tall, slender man. He was in a crisp, well-tailored suit. ...Is he one of the Konohana bodyguards? It's hard to describe, but his manner was elegant, not like a regular person. It was similar to the aura I'd felt from the other upper-class kids when I first started at Kiou Academy. Is he related to the Konohana family? As I was wondering...

"Hi."

The man walked over and spoke to me.

"...Hello."

I had no idea why he was talking to me, so I just returned the greeting. He was handsome, tall, with pale skin. This build is definitely not a bodyguard, I thought. Maybe an idol?

"What do you recommend at this store?"

"Recommend?"

This is a convenience store...? I've been asked that at the izakaya, but never at a convenience store. He looked well-off, so I searched for something that type would like.

"How about wine?"

"Mmm, not that. Something with more of a convenience store vibe."

My attempt was a failure.

"Then, how about the hot food by the counter?"

"Hot food?... Ah, that! I've been curious about it since I walked in!"

He's never had it? No... his reaction was more like he'd never known it existed...

"Also, if you don't mind, could you lend me some money?"

"...Money?"

This man's weirdness level suddenly shot up. But, thanks to my attendant salary, I have some cash. The food is less than 200 yen. I'll just give it to him, I thought, and handed him two 100-yen coins.

"Thanks. You're very kind."

The man said, looking straight into my eyes.

"I don't like to carry a wallet. This way, I can form all kinds of connections."

"...I see."

Like a high-class version of hitchhiking? He was suspicious, but for some reason, I didn't feel worried. Maybe it was his elegant dignity. Every word he said sounded like something a weirdo would say, but somehow it felt like I was getting a glimpse of a genius. The man walked to the counter and bought the hot food. Hinako is waiting. I need to buy the ice cream... Just as the man was leaving, I went to the counter and presented three ice cream bars.

"...Itsuki tomonari-kun?"

After I paid, I realized the female clerk was staring at me. Her voice was familiar.

"...Adachi-san?"

It was one of my former classmates. I didn't recognize her from afar, but looking again, it was her.

"Long time no see."

"Yeah, long time no see."

We exchanged an awkward greeting. The next line of conversation wouldn't come. There were no other customers. Before the dead silence turned awkward, I squeezed out:

"You work here?"

"Yeah. My allowance isn't enough."

She said, looking at my face.

"You've... changed."

"Have I?"

"You seem more... composed... or maybe you hold your head higher. You're more prim than before."

In any case, it didn't seem to be a negative. Holding my head high, acting with decorum—these were things drilled into Kiou students. It felt good to hear.

"You've changed too, Adachi-san."

"Oh? How so?"

"How do I put it... Your look is flashier."

It was blunt, but it was my honest impression. She had earrings, painted nails, and highlights in her hair. Maybe it was a 'second-year high school' thing, enjoying fashion within the school's rules. She wasn't like this last year. She was never shy, but her look was plainer. She wasn't one to actively seek the spotlight.

"It's an image change."

Adachi-san replied curtly. An image change. I guessed the reason and quickly looked away.

"Why are you making that face?"

"No, it's just... it's a bit awkward."

"Because I confessed to you?"

"...Yes."

I couldn't think of an excuse, so I just nodded. She had confessed to me in our first year. I hadn't seen it coming. Looking back, she had come to talk to me a lot. But I turned her down. I was poor. I didn't have time for romance.

"My image change has nothing to do with you."

I felt a secret wave of relief, but I tried not to show it, which resulted in a weird expression. She looked at me and laughed.

"A lot happened last year."

Adachi-san said, reminiscing.

"After you rejected me, I took some time off school, right? I told everyone I was sick, but I was actually really depressed."

"...I kind of guessed."

"Hey—you should have come to visit, then."

"That would have been worse."

I smiled lightly, and she smiled back. Neither of us was at fault, but this conversation felt like it was washing away the past. A way to slowly repair our awkward relationship.

"And... my friends, probably to support me, hated you for a while..."

"Ah... so they did hate me."

"Sorry. I think I complained, and when I said you rejected me because of your family's situation, everyone just said, 'That's definitely a lie'..."

"No, it was my fault for saying it like that. I'd never told anyone about my situation, and then I just use it as an excuse. Of course you couldn't accept it."

I said, recalling the memory. Right. My first year of high school wasn't all sunshine and rainbows. Sometimes things went wrong, and sometimes I was depressed.

"We were both so immature back then."

"...Yeah."

"We can't be a couple, but let's be friends"... only a smooth operator could pull that off. Neither I nor Adachi-san could manage it. I remembered this pathetic past and scratched the back of my head.

"I was only thinking about myself. I wish I could do it over."

"Oh~ Does that mean I have another chance?"

"Huh?"

That's not what I meant...

"Actually, I'm still into you."

"N-No, that..."

Adachi-san leaned forward, looking up at me and grasping my hand.

"How about it? Wanna talk? My shift's almost over."

"Even if you say talk..."

This sudden closeness confused me. Was she always like this? This... flirtatious? From her appearance to her personality, she was completely different from my memory.

"Um..."

Just then, the man in the suit, who I thought had left, was suddenly beside us.

"Sorry, I'll ring you up right..."

Adachi-san immediately straightened up.

"Ah, no, I'm not buying anything. I just couldn't listen anymore."

The man corrected her, and the atmosphere cracked. Did I hear him right? He just said something... super harsh. The man smiled a saccharine smile at Adachi-san.

"Young lady, a 'love-less' attempt to marry up won't do either of you any good."

Adachi-san flinched. She quickly covered it with a stiff smile.

"...What do you mean?"

"Wait until you're a little older before you consider a relationship just for money. It's quite a hassle."

"I never said it was for money."

"But you already have a boyfriend, don't you?"

This time, Adachi-san was clearly panicking. Her eyes went wide, as if asking, "How?"

"Sorry, I just know these things."

The man said, just as calmly as before. Adachi-san scowled, her irritation and disgust overriding her reason.

"...Tch."

She clicked her tongue. I hesitated, but she wouldn't look at me. I'd already paid, so... I left the store, still worried about her.

"You've had some bad luck."

The man said as the automatic door closed.

"Bad luck... Of course she'd get mad if someone just spouted nonsense."

"But it's the truth. Mmm... it's happened again."

He shrugged, not seeming very upset.

"Itsuki-kun, humility is good, but you should understand your own position. You're going to run into people like that a lot more from now on."

His words set off an alarm. Why would he know my "position," and...

"Why do you know my name..."

"Why do you think?"

The man smiled roguishly.

"Here's a hint: you're only back home thanks to me."

His words made me replay the last few days. What was the catalyst for this trip? Hinako wanted to come to my house. Why? The reason Hinako wanted to leave the mansion—

"...Are you Takuma Konohana-sama?"

"Correct."

The man smiled, nodding.

"Hello. I'm Takuma Konohana. You've been taking care of my little sister."

I was standing in a convenience store parking lot, holding melting ice cream, talking to Takuma-san.

"I borrowed money, right? I wasn't just begging. In short, I had a way to pay you back."

Of course you did. If he's Hinako's family, he must know everything about me. His presence here means he knows where we're staying.

"Why are you here...?"

"Killing time. If I have to give a reason, I wanted to see the 'evacuation' spot my sister chose."

So, our meeting was a coincidence? If he's using the word "evacuation," he's aware Hinako is hiding from him. But he doesn't seem sad about it.

"How's the attendant job?"

He asked. Before I could answer, he continued:

"Is it worth it?"

"...I think so."

"Hahaha, why are you so tense? Relax."

He said with a friendly laugh. But I couldn't relax. He's been giving me an indescribable, creepy feeling. His tone is light, but he's unreadable.

"Taking care of her is hard, right? Stressful?"

"...No. It's fulfilling. It's not stressful."

"That's good. The last attendant got a stomach ulcer. I wonder if 'Konohana' became a trauma for her. She won't use any of our Group's services anymore."

That's harsh. It's not impossible to live in Japan without the Konohana Group, but you'd have to be careful. They're in banking, real estate, and food production.

"Seeing you just now, you get along well with your old classmates."

"Well, there's no reason to ruin the relationship."

Although, thanks to Takuma-san, my relationship with one of them might be ruined.

"You're sharp... or rather, you want to be good at getting along."

He said, sounding impressed.

"Since you're that kind of person, I'll tell you."

He looked straight at me.

"Do you know why Dad allowed Hinako to leave the mansion?"

"Is it because... Hinako has been fulfilling her duties, and Kagen-san is starting to trust her?"

"That's you overestimating him."

Takuma-san laughed. I could see it was a smile without mirth.

"Your house isn't a hotel. The security is lax... Do you really think my worry-wart Dad would let Hinako leave the mansion so easily?"

Hearing that, I lost confidence in my guess. Kagen-san is a worrier. He's meticulous. He understands his responsibilities and always tries to make the appropriate judgment. The reason he'd let Hinako go... I said it was based on warmth, but maybe that's not like him.

"The truth is, our family is in a bit of trouble right now."

"Trouble?"

"A harassment scandal at one of the Group's companies, Konohana Beverages. It's not in the news, but word is spreading among our competitors. So, to be safe, Dad chose to get Hinako away from the family name."

His explanation was... plausible. In fact, it was more plausible. That sounded like a reason Kagen-san would approve.

"Dad's the type who can't make a move unless it's calculated. I hope you can forgive him."

Takuma-san said, almost apologetically. Is his relationship with his father bad? I was curious, but I had a more pressing question.

"Does Hinako know... about this?"

If she knew, she must be hiding her anxiety. Takuma-san's eyes widened.

"...You're a kind person. The first thing you ask is about her."

He let out a short breath.

"She knows. Dad probably told her. But she likely only knows what I just told you. It's not like she can do anything about it."

He replied flatly.

"And, it's sad for me to say, but the reason she left is just to avoid me... She's not hiding her true feelings from you."

He said it as if to reassure me. Meaning: Hinako isn't hiding the scandal to protect me. Thinking about it, that makes sense. When Hinako came to my house, when we went to the shopping street, her eyes were sparkling. She was genuinely excited. I don't think that was an act. Just then, footsteps approached from behind.

"Itsuki-san, you were taking a long time, so I came to—"

Shizune-san walked up to us in the parking lot. It was dark, so she didn't see who I was with until she was close. When she saw the man, her eyes widened slightly.

"...Waka-sama, why are you here?"

"Hey, Shizune. You look as hard to get along with as ever."

Takuma-san greeted her lightly.

"I'm just killing time. You know my hobby is wandering."

"...I believe I've asked you to stop that hobby."

"It's a hobby because I can't stop."

Shizune-san is usually calm, but her face was a little dark. She took a short breath and turned to me.

"Itsuki-san, this man hasn't been feeding you any unnecessary information, has he?"

"Uh... um..."

How should I answer? As I was struggling, Takuma-san sighed.

"Hey, that's harsh. I'm the eldest son. I wouldn't run my mouth."

"Then that's fine..."

"I just told him about the little bit of trouble the Group is in."

Shizune-san glared at him, an I-thought-you-said-you-didn't look in her eyes.

"Did you tell Itsuki-kun that Dad let them go because he 'trusts' Hinako?"

"...I didn't 'tell' him. And that is part of it, isn't it?"

"Dad is changing, but I think it's dangerous to over-read him... Sometimes, the more you expect, the more you get hurt."

Takuma-san said, looking a little sad. I wasn't really sure what they were arguing about.

"Waka-sama, was it necessary to tell Itsuki-san about the scandal?"

"Was it necessary not to? You've been overprotective for a while. With him, it's better he knows. He can react better than if you keep him in the dark."

"...I believe I have given it serious consideration."

Shizune-san glared at Takuma-san. How do I say this... it's the first time I've seen Shizune-san lose a verbal battle. Takuma-san was running circles around her, whether he meant to or not. Watching this, I suddenly thought: (...Could it be that Shizune-san is so busy lately all because of him?) The eldest son is visiting. Juggling that with her work must require a lot of coordination. Seeing her get played by him, I couldn't help but wonder.

"It's not like that."

Takuma-san said, turning to me.

"Shizune is busy only because of the scandal I mentioned. It has nothing to do with my visit."

He stated it as fact. Shizune-san, in my peripheral vision, was silent. That must mean he's right. But, more than that—

"...Um, I didn't say anything...?"

Did I say my question out loud? No—I couldn't have. Who would say something so rude to his face? But he'd answered as if he'd read my mind. Seeing my shock, he smiled.

"I told you, didn't I? I just know."

It sent a shiver down my spine. This is what Adachi-san must have felt.

"Well, you don't need to worry about the scandal. Leave that stuff to us cunning adults."

Takuma-san said. I didn't like Shizune-san being included in that "cunning adults" group, which left me speechless.

"Well, I should get going... Ah, right. One last thing."

He walked over and whispered, so Shizune-san couldn't hear.

"As you are now, you can't become Hinako's safe harbor."

What does that mean— Before I could ask, he turned and left. By this point, the ice cream I'd bought for Hinako was completely melted.

◆

I bought the ice cream again and walked home. My phone rang. It was Yuri.

'Itsuki, you free? The girls you met at the school gate... they told Adachi-san about you.'

"...I see."

'Yeah. And, uh... Adachi-san, since second year started, she's been hanging with a bad crowd. Maybe it's their influence, but she latches onto any guy who seems to have money. You're a Kiou student... just be careful.'

"Okay... I will."

I hung up and put my phone away. I let out a small sigh.

"Um, Shizune-san."

I asked, walking beside her.

"What kind of person is Takuma-san?"

"...That's a difficult question."

Shizune-san said, walking.

"In a word, 'free-spirited.' He thinks deeply, but his values are different from ordinary people. He's hard to understand... Even Master Kagen and Ojou-sama struggle to know what he's thinking."

She looked at the night street and continued:

"But he has Konohana blood. His natural talent is no less than Ojou-sama's... His powers of observation, especially, are almost frightening."

"Observation..."

I knew what she meant. Shizune-san must have sensed it, too.

"Do you know what EQ is?"

I shook my head.

"Emotional Intelligence Quotient... It's the psychology version of IQ. People with high EQ are good at sensing emotions and good at regulating their own."

Sensing emotions... like, reading the room. Regulating... controlling their own. I'm just guessing, but I get the gist.

"Waka-sama's EQ is extremely high, rare in this world. He calls it 'over-communication'... He can guess what people are thinking just by observing them, so he accidentally makes comments that sound like mind-reading."

So that's how he knew. And with Adachi-san, too...

"But because he has that talent, he's bad at normal communication... You can't blame him. To him, it's like the other person has already said their thought. But to them, they never said it."

When Takuma-san left the store, he'd said, "it's happened again." He understood the other person's feelings and spoke accordingly, but people couldn't keep up. He must have gone through that many times. That's what he meant.

"...You know a lot about him, Shizune-san."

She had explained in more detail than I expected.

"Because I wasn't originally assigned to Ojou-sama. I was assigned to Waka-sama."

"Huh."

That was the first I'd heard of it.

"But he didn't need me from the start. So I was immediately reassigned to Ojou-sama."

"...I see."

"Yes. And I'm glad for it."

It was a rare show of emotion from her. As we neared the apartment, I remembered his words. —As you are now, you can't become Hinako's safe harbor. What did that mean? I still didn't know the answer as I opened the door. Hinako was lying flat inside, using a cushion as a pillow. She wasn't asleep, but she was lazy... in other words, her usual sloppy self. I decided to forget the words replaying in my head.

"Hinako, I'm back with the ice cream."

"I want...!"

She shot up from her lying position. You wanted it that badly? I opened the bag and asked Hinako, who was eagerly picking her ice cream:

"Did you know about the scandal at one of the Konohana Group's companies?"

"...I know. You heard, too?"

If I told her I heard it from Takuma-san, she'd make that face. I just said, "Yeah."

"I hope it gets handled properly..."

Hinako said with a serious expression, taking a bite of ice cream:

"I feel bad for Father."

Kagen-san treasures the Konohana Group most. He must be racked with worry. I also nodded and said,

"Yeah."

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