Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 6 Chapter 3

The Challenger

A week had passed since the study group with Suminoe-san. And It had been two weeks since the Management Tournament began.

It was only two weeks in the real world, but a full year in the game. And with a year of data, you could clearly see how a company was doing.

Companies in bad shape—the ones whose performance hadn't improved—were having to consider remedial measures. Observing the in-game trends, I could occasionally see the managers (players) struggling desperately to recover.

This wasn't just someone else's problem. After all, I was one of those managers who needed to find a solution.

"There's a tea party today."

"That's right."

I nodded from inside the car on the way to school. The tea party alliance was meeting for the first time in a while after school. I wanted to check on everyone's progress.

(I might be a little sleep-deprived...)

I let out a small yawn. I hadn't been sleeping much these past few days. My company's performance wasn't growing as expected. The site's user growth had stagnated, and my ad campaigns weren't having any effect. I wanted to fix it, but I didn't even know where to start, and it was stressing me out.

"Itsuki, are you tired?"

"...No, I'm fine."

I couldn't help but lie so Hinako wouldn't worry.

"You're not well-rested either, Ojou-sama. You cut into your sleep last night to make tea."

"S-Shizune...!"

"My apologies. It slipped out."

Hinako's voice was frantic. Since that day, Hinako had started making tea for me. The day after she first brought it, I returned the favor and brought tea to her room. But then she brought it again the next day, and we'd been going back and forth ever since.

...Lately, Hinako and Shizune-san seemed closer than before. Or rather... it felt more like Shizune-san was just doting on her. Was Shizune-san even aware of it? ...If I pointed it out, she'd probably restrain herself, so I kept quiet. Hinako didn't seem to truly mind, so I figured it was fine.

"Hinako, if you're tired, you can sleep."

"M... Nn... I'm not sleeping..."

Hinako blinked her sleepy eyes, fighting to stay awake.

"You were like this last night, too. Why are you suddenly forcing yourself to stay awake?"

When she made tea last night, she'd looked sleepy but had fought it. She stammered,

"Because... I... wanted to talk to you..."

Hearing that, I had to look away. What is this adorable creature? My composure was about to snap. I rubbed my temples, desperately holding it together.

"...We can talk anytime! We live under the same roof, after all."

"...That's true."

Hinako agreed, looking a little delighted. The car swayed slightly, and she used the motion to lean her head against my shoulder.

"...I'm going to sleep."

She whispered quietly and closed her eyes. A faint, sweet scent and a pleasant warmth spread from my shoulder. She really had been forcing herself; she was asleep almost instantly.

...Seeing her, I felt sleepy, too. As Hinako's attendant, I'm supposed to watch over her... but today, I was hit by an overwhelming drowsiness, and my eyelids started to droop.

"...Shizune-san, sorry, I'm going to sleep for a bit, too."

"Understood... This is rare. You must be very tired."

Come to think of it, this was the first time I'd fallen asleep during the commute. ...Pulling all-nighters really takes a toll. Regretting my lack of sleep, I drifted off.

◆

After school. The tea party alliance members gathered around our usual table at the cafe.

"Well then, without further ado, let's share our status reports."

Tennouji-san said, sharing her laptop screen.

"First, I will report on the Tennouji Group's accounts. Explaining every division would be tedious, so I will share the main points."

She showed us a slideshow of her financial data. Non-ferrous metals revenue was up 13% year-over-year; electronics manufacturing was down 2%. Performance varied, but overall growth was up.

Still, this presentation is really flashy... It was full of dramatic effects and honestly a little hard to read. It was very her... but this flashy, it almost felt like a cheap supermarket sale ad. I glanced at Tennouji-san and saw her, hand on her chest, puffing up with a proud "Hmph." I felt bad raining on her parade, so I didn't mention it.

"Next, the Konohana Group's revenue. First, the main company, Konohana Trading—"

Hinako took over, sharing her screen. Like Tennouji-san, she went by division. But unlike Tennouji-san's mixed results, Hinako's showed steady, stable growth across the board.

"M-My company's consolidated revenue, compared to last year, um—"

Narika was nervous, but her performance had also grown. She had nothing to be ashamed of in her numbers; she was just scared of presenting.

"My company—"

"My J. Co., Ltd.—"

Taisho and Asahi-san were also doing well. Finally, it was my turn.

"Here's Tomonari Gifts."

I showed them the report from the game.

"It's doing well."

"No, the annual numbers might look fine, but..."

I pulled up the user growth graph and explained.

"It's been completely flat since the second half of the year. Honestly, I feel like I've hit a wall. If this keeps up, next year's forecast is worrying."

I felt I'd hit the limit of my current methods, but the service itself still had potential.

"Didn't the catalog help your revenue?"

"Yes. I thought it would take time, but it showed results faster than expected. But maybe it was just a quick start... it flatlined pretty fast."

I explained my thoughts on Taisho's question. The catalog did pull in some customers from that market, just as I'd planned. My mistake was overestimating the size of that market. It was smaller than I thought, so the pool of new customers was naturally limited.

"Tomonari, why don't you start a marketing department? You don't have one, right?"

"Marketing... Right, I don't."

I see. I'd been doing all the analysis myself, but it was time to delegate. Relying on an expert might prevent failures like this.

"Even if it's not a full department, you could hire a marketing firm. Want me to introduce you to the one I'm using?"

Asahi-san offered. Starting my own department was an option, but I wanted to see the effects first. I'll take her up on her offer.

"Please."

"Okay, I'll message them now~"

Asahi-san started typing. She was contacting another student who ran a marketing company.

"Tomonari-kun, you're working hard. You were online all yesterday, weren't you?"

"Yeah. How did you know?"

"You know the 'Company Info' page? It shows the player's login status in the top left. You didn't know?"

"I had no idea..."

I'd been so focused on my own company, I hadn't even looked at anyone else's. When other students messaged me, I just thought it was good timing. So that's why. They were checking my status first.

"By the way, Tomonari, you've been yawning all day. Staying up all night playing?"

"No, it's not..."

"But you couldn't answer when the teacher called on you in class today, could you~?"

"Ngh..."

Taisho and Asahi-san's tag-team attack left me speechless. Hearing this, Tennouji-san's eyes widened.

"Is that true?"

"I-It's fine. I'm going to review it all tonight."

"..."

She narrowed her eyes at me. I had to be careful. Letting my grades slip because of the tournament would defeat the whole purpose.

◆

8:30 PM. I was back at the Konohana estate, on my laptop.

'Then, you have selected Plan B.'

A message came from my new contact.

'This plan will identify your target demographic. After implementation, we can use the purchase history to run an effective PDCA cycle. We'll also investigate the market size you were worried about. Don't worry.'

'Thank you. This is a huge help.'

'Since Asahi-san introduced you, I'll give you a small discount.'

This was the student Asahi-san had introduced me to. She'd spent an hour listening to my situation, then immediately proposed the perfect plan, and we signed the contract. Using a marketing service in-game apparently boosts employee efficiency, but you can't just pick one. It won't work unless it's tailored to your specific problem.

"Until this kicks in, I'll just have to wait..."

Marketing is based on data analysis, which takes time. The PDCA cycle, by definition, is a loop of analysis and correction. It wouldn't show results overnight.

"...This is terrifying."

I knew I couldn't expect instant results, but the wait was still nerve-wracking. Did I make the wrong move? Did I just waste time and money? The anxiety was eating at me.

...I should study some more. It was just past 9 PM, so the game was locked. But I had a pile of research to do. I'd planned to do my schoolwork, but I was so worried about the game, I couldn't focus on anything else. I was robbing Peter to pay Paul... It felt like struggling in quicksand. The lack of sleep was making me negative. I slapped my cheeks to wake up, just as a knock came.

"Itsuki-sama, are you free?"

I heard Shizune-san's voice and answered, "Yes."

"Pardon the intrusion."

"...Huh? Where's Hinako?"

"Ojou-sama is with the Master discussing the tournament. I came to inform you of something."

Inform me? I tilted my head, and she continued.

"Next Sunday, Ojou-sama and I have a dinner engagement. We will be out until the evening."

"Understood... Can I go with you?"

"This is a special gathering of the Konohana Group executives... It is too soon for you."

So that's a thing... Hinako hates those stuffy dinners. I wanted to be there to support her, but it sounds like this one is off-limits.

"We appreciate the sentiment. Perhaps one day you will."

"I'm both happy and terrified..."

A dinner with all the top executives... If I went, I wouldn't just be quiet; I'd be a lamb surrounded by wolves.

"You are free that day... but if I may, I suggest you rest."

"...Do I really look that tired?"

"You're trying to hide it, but it's obvious... We do see each other every day."

Shizune-san said, and left the room.

(Rest, huh...)

I appreciated her concern. But I don't have time to rest. If I'm alone... I'll just study all day. Sundays are locked anyway. I'll just focus on absorbing knowledge. I need the study time.

"...Hm?"

My phone vibrated. I looked at the screen.

"Tennouji-san?"

"Tomonari-kun, do you have a minute?"

"Yeah, no problem."

What's this about?

"This is sudden, but are you free next Sunday?"

"I am..."

"Then, you're going out with me."

The invitation was completely out of the blue. I was happy she asked, but I'd just decided to study all day.

"Sorry, I'm pretty busy right now, so maybe next time—"

"—Let's have a tournament strategy meeting."

Tennouji-san cut me off.

"As comrades both aiming for the student council, I'm sure we could have a meaningful discussion..."

"...If that's the case, then count me in."

"Excellent. We'll sort out the details later."

I could hear the smile in her voice. We'd held study sessions before, and thanks to her, I'd aced my exams. If she says it'll be meaningful, I'm sure I'll learn something.

"Also, please don't bring your laptop."

"Huh? But we won't be able to do anything."

"The game is locked on Sundays anyway, and carrying a laptop around is a pain."

"...Got it."

She had a point. I agreed.

"And one more thing. Please get some sleep."

"Okay."

This was a valuable opportunity. I'd make sure I was focused and ready. I'll have to get to bed early on Saturday...

◆

I'd been waiting at the station meeting spot for a few minutes when a black sedan pulled up. The car looked like it belonged to a politician, drawing stares. The girl who stepped out, in a way, lived up to the hype. Tennouji-san approached, her golden ringlets bouncing.

"Sorry to keep you waiting."

"No, I just got here..."

I really had just arrived, ten minutes early. It seems she had the same idea. But more than that, I was focused on her clothes.

"What is it?"

"Um... Your outfit is... really nice."

"My, you've gotten smoother."

Tennouji-san beamed. I was reminded of when she used to call me a "swindler." But inwardly... I was shocked. I'd thought this was a "study session," but she was dressed way too glamorously. She looked like she was heading to an amusement park.

"Itsuki-kun, let's go."

She changed how she addressed me. And I knew what that signal meant—

"Right. Thanks for having me."

"Hehe... This really is a happy moment."

I just switched my tone, and she lit up. ...It's embarrassing when she says that. "Itsuki Tomonari, The Heir" was off the clock. When we were alone, I was just "Itsuki Tomonari," the poor student and Konohana attendant.

"So, where are we going?"

"Here."

She showed me her phone.

"...An art museum?"

We're studying... here?

"First, I must apologize."

She said, her expression serious.

"The strategy meeting was a lie."

"Huh?"

"I asked you out today to help you relax."

I put my hand to my forehead, processing her words. She must have seen how exhausted I was and invited me out. It was out of concern, of course. But this time, I couldn't just accept it.

"...Sorry. I appreciate it, but I'm really not in the mood."

I have too much to do. My brain feels like it's about to crash. If I don't start checking things off, I'm going to have a breakdown. She wouldn't have fun hanging out with me in this state. So, as bad as I felt, it was probably better if I just went home.

"—It's like I'm looking at my old self."

Tennouji-san said, seeing my distress.

"That cornered expression... I can't tell you how many times I've seen it in the mirror."

She murmured sadly, then looked at me with determination.

"Do you know why Sunday is the only day we can't log in? Do you know the reason?"

"It's... so we can keep up with our other schoolwork?"

"Wrong."

She shook her head.

"It's so students accumulating stress from the tournament can reset."

Her answer surprised me.

"Managers are in positions of heavy responsibility. They're more prone to mental illness than employees... In fact, the suicide rate for executives is very high."

"...I see."

"The tournament is just a game, but it's also a graded class. And Kiou students, with all our parents' expectations, are very sensitive about grades. In past years, students have had breakdowns during the tournament. That's why the school mandated a weekly day off."

I had no idea. But she was right. Everyone here carries the weight of their family. Even without the tournament, students like Hinako and Tennouji-san were already pushing themselves to the brink.

"A manager has to take care of their mental health. That applies here, too... So just give up and let me help you relax today."

Her words hit me hard. The most shocking part was that I'd made her this worried.

(...So that's it. I really am cornered.)

The signs were all there. Hinako, Asahi-san, Taisho, Shizune-san... they were all worried about me. If I were fine, that many people wouldn't be concerned.

"...Alright."

I nodded deeply, looking at her.

"I know I've been too focused on the tournament... I'll relax today."

"Good. Resting is part of the job."

She nodded, satisfied.

"Honestly... Didn't I tell you not to overdo it?"

Come to think of it, she had said that back when I was interviewing her. She must have seen this tendency in me back then.

"...You're the only one who said that."

"Because in this tournament, the ones who do well are the most likely to get sucked in... I had a feeling. You're a high-risk workaholic."

I couldn't argue. Before Kiou, I worked constantly. After, I studied constantly. I'd decided on this path... but maybe I'd become a prisoner to it. I have to keep going, but I never intended to make people worry.

"Then, let's go! First, the museum!"

"Okay. But I checked, it's a bit of a walk, isn't it?"

"Yes. So we're taking the car."

She said, glancing to the side. The sedan was still there. I made eye contact with the driver, who gave me a deep bow.

"Last time, you showed me a commoner's day off. Today, I shall show you an upper-class one!"

I walked to the car with a much more energetic Tennouji-san. I mentally apologized. My gloominess had dampened her mood... She looked much better when she was cheerful.

◆

We spent two hours in the museum. We walked outside, still soaking in the atmosphere.

"So? What did you think?"

Tennouji-san asked.

"That was my first time in an art museum... It was great."

"Hehe, right?"

She beamed.

"It's not entertainment you see or hear... it's entertainment you feel. That's art. I think that's a precious experience you can't get anywhere else."

And she wanted to share that with me. Appreciating art really was unique. It was different from sports, movies, or games... an "entertainment of the heart" that was hard to describe.

"Do you come here often?"

"Once or twice a month. Whenever there's an exhibit I'm interested in."

That's... a lot. She basically gave me the tour. She knew the whole layout, so she must have been here countless times.

"Itsuki-kun, did you have a favorite piece?"

"Let's see... It's probably cliché, but Water Lilies was really captivating."

"Ah, Monet's masterpiece."

There was a crowd around it, and the museum guide highlighted it, so it must be famous. It depicted flowers on water. From far away, the deep blues were striking, but up close, you could see the soft light in the brushstrokes. You could really lose yourself in it.

"Actually, that's just one part of a whole series."

"Oh, really?"

"If another one is exhibited, I'll bring you."

I'll look forward to that. As I started walking, I realized my feet were aching. It was a big museum; I must have been tired from walking. I checked my phone. 3 PM... a while until dinner.

"Need a break?"

"Good idea. Let's find a cafe."

Tennouji-san suggested smoothly.

"Actually, I've already decided where. It's just a short walk."

"...You're a flawless guide."

"It's simply proper etiquette."

She said proudly. Coming from her, "etiquette" probably included mastering every traditional art form. I don't know if that's true, but she was impressive.

"Lady Tennouji, Mr. Tomonari, welcome."

As I entered the cafe, a waiter in coattails gave us a deep bow. I followed Tennouji-san, who knew exactly where she was going. The interior was as lavish as a European palace. Marble floors, paintings on the walls, high-end tea sets on the tables. There was a stage in the back with a grand piano. Golden light fixtures hung from the white ceiling. Every view was elegant.

"This is a members-only cafe for the Tennouji Family. I come here once a week."

I figured she was a regular. I was surprised the waiter knew my name, but they must have known her and been told I was coming.

"It's a very classy place."

"You don't need to be so stiff... is what I was going to say."

She sat across from me, looking me in the eye.

"But you're much calmer than I expected."

"Well... the place I live is kind of like this."

Living at the Konohana estate, I'm surrounded by six-figure furniture and seven-figure paintings. You get used to it.

"You're in the Konohana annex, right?"

"Yes, not the main house."

"The main house is even bigger. I went once, long ago, for a ball. I was so impressed... It's a frustrating memory."

That must have been before she saw Hinako as a rival. She was probably genuinely impressed... It's a glimpse of her old innocence. Come to think of it, I've never seen the main Konohana house. Kagen-san often stays at the annex, but Takuma-san lives in the main house... Hinako and Shizune-san are probably at the main house right now for that dinner.

"The menu."

The waiter handed it to me. I may be immune to the atmosphere... but I'm not immune to this—my brain shut down when I saw the menu had no prices.

"...What are the prices like?"

"You don't need to worry about that today. You're here to relax."

I hadn't brought much money, assuming it was a study session. It would be rude to press the issue. I'll just accept her kindness. I ordered the same tea as her, and it arrived quickly. I silently lifted the cup and took a sip.

"...This is delicious."

It was a soft, sweet milk tea. The faint astringency was perfectly balanced, and the aftertaste was clean.

"Tea this season is so fragrant and wonderful."

"Does the flavor change with the season?"

"Yes. The best harvest periods are called 'flushes.' The autumn flush... has the richest, most full-bodied flavor, perfect for milk tea."

"Wow... I've been drinking more tea since coming to Kiou, but I never knew that."

"Well, tea is a hobby of mine."

Thank goodness this isn't common knowledge... I've been picking up tea types and brands since I got here, but I still have those "I'm supposed to know this!?" moments. High society is deep. As we were enjoying our tea, a woman in a beautiful evening gown walked onto the stage and bowed. She sat at the piano and began to play. The music was delicate. Maybe because I was still fresh from the museum, but the soft melody sank right into me.

"Pavane for a Dead Princess... A pavane is a 16th-century European dance."

I mulled over her explanation, enjoying the music. I don't know piano, but the notes were so clear and distinct, not just a complex flurry. She must be famous. Finally the piece ended, and the customers applauded. The pianist rose and bowed again to the customers. She gave a final, small bow to Tennouji-san, who smiled and returned it. Tennouji-san said this was her family's cafe, so they must know each other.

"If she's an acquaintance, you can go say hello."

"Right now, I am the guest, and she is the performer. I wouldn't dream of ruining this wonderful relationship by doing something so tactless."

Tennouji-san said, sipping her tea. Beyond being acquaintances, they were performer and audience... She was enjoying the expert's performance, not just her friend's music. That was the highest form of respect.

...This is a first-class ojou-sama. If Hinako is the "Perfect Ojou-sama," Tennouji-san is the "First-Class Ojou-sama." It wasn't just her manners; her entire way of life was noble.

"You have a surprising number of hobbies."

"The 'surprising' part is unnecessary."

It just slipped out. But she wasn't really angry.

"But... the hobbies I shared with you today are all recent."

"Really?"

"Yes."

Tennouji-san looked at me, her eyes soft.

"—Thanks to you."

She continued, her voice full of joy.

"I used to spend every day driving myself into the ground, trying to be worthy of the Tennouji name. I tried to hide it, but I was under so much stress... my family was always worried."

I knew about that time. The marriage interview... She'd thought she had no choice. She really had been cornered.

"You broadened my horizons. Thanks to you, I was able to accept my parents' feelings and live more freely... And as a result, I found all these new hobbies."

She'd been trying to exceed her parents' expectations... No, she'd created an image of their expectations and made it her mission. Once she was free from that, she became the Tennouji-san of today. She's still diligent... but she's not narrow-minded. She can accept the feelings others offer her. She'd thought she was carrying the world, but she'd been free all along. And now she was enjoying it.

"Itsuki-kun. I must thank you. Because of you, my path forward is so much brighter."

Tennouji-san bowed her head.

"I didn't do anything that amazing."

"To me, it was everything."

If she says so... then I'm glad I pushed her back then.

"—Anyway, my point is, you helped me change."

She took a sip of tea. Then set the cup down, a little hard.

"B-But-You—! Now you're the one acting like I used to, all cornered and obsessive! I just had to say something!"

"I'm sorry..."

I had a bad feeling when she took that sip. I knew this was coming...

"You're just like I was... So I decided, this time, I'd be the one to help."

"...So that's what this was."

"The old me, seeing you like this, probably would have just said, 'Well, try harder.'"

She... wouldn't say that. Tennouji-san had changed, but the "old her" would have told me to rest, too. She thinks she's changed, so she looks down on her past self... but from my perspective, she's been kind from the very beginning. When I was looking for Hinako's lost wallet, she's the one who stopped me and told me to hold my head high. I still remember it... She was so cool and kind. Back when I didn't know anything, she made me think, 'I want to be like her.' She says I helped her, but she was the one who helped me first.

"...I was able to change thanks to you, too."

The words slipped out.

"You told me to have confidence. To speak with dignity. To hold my head high. To work hard... You taught me all of that. I'm the one who should be thanking you."

She was, without a doubt, the one who taught me how important those things were. I straightened my back and looked Tennouji-san right in the eye. Here, in this elegant space, in an atmosphere where a single rude move would be a disaster, I was speaking privately with the heiress of the Tennouji Group. My past self would have been cowering. I was surprised at how composed I could be. Tennouji-san looked at me and, for some reason, froze. Her cheeks slowly turned red.

"W-Well... that's wonderful!"

The atmosphere suddenly became a little awkward. My face felt hot. I was probably bright red, too.

"B-By the way, Suminoe-san also said you'd changed."

I said, grabbing at a new topic to change the mood.

"Oh, really?"

"Yeah. We talked a lot at that study group."

I brought her up, careful to avoid... her true nature.

"You helped her in the past, right?"

"I wouldn't call it 'helping.' I just didn't want to see her talent wasted. Her own diligence is what helped her."

To Tennouji-san, she had simply scouted Suminoe-san because she had the skills.

"Do you two talk often?"

"We do. That said, since we were put in different classes in our second year, we only see each other after school."

"I see... Suminoe-san really looks up to you. She might be lonely."

"Oh my. Does she seem that way?"

"Yeah..."

I don't know about lonely, but I definitely sensed the... love. Before they were separated... she could see Tennouji-san every day. She was probably in a much better state back then.

"I had a vague feeling she admired me."

Tennouji-san seemed somewhat aware of her feelings. Well, not the obsessive part, anyway.

"But... she respected the 'old' me. She might have mixed feelings about who I am now."

She said this with a complicated expression, glancing at the cafe clock.

"Alright, on to the next stop."

"There's more?"

"Yes... We've been doing a lot of desk work lately, haven't we?"

That's for sure.

"Times like these... call for physical activity!"

◆

I let out a breath, feeling a little nervous. After standing there for a moment, I heard footsteps approaching.

"Sorry to keep you waiting."

Tennouji-san said as she walked over, and I couldn't help but stare.

"...It suits you perfectly."

"You're back to polite speech."

Tennouji-san was wearing a blue gown. She smiled at me, dressed in a simple black suit. She held out her hand.

"Come... Let's dance."

A slow, elegant melody drifted from the dance floor. After leaving the cafe, Tennouji-san had brought me to a dance hall. It was a facility for ballroom dancing, spacious and incredibly high-class. The floor was polished just right, echoing our footsteps, and the ceiling glittered with soft light from ornate chandeliers. They had rentals, so we'd both changed. I hadn't had a chance to dance recently, so it had been a while since I'd worn a suit like this. We were dancing a slow waltz. Come to think of it, this was the first dance she ever taught me.

"My, you actually remembered."

"Of course. You were a strict teacher..."

"It seems your teacher was excellent. Next time, I'll teach you the tango."

The tango... unlike the waltz, it's passionate and intense. I was curious, but that's for another day. I held my frame as we spun. Even I could tell our movements were fluid, without a trace of awkwardness. Sometimes when you dance, you just... click. It's an amazing feeling, like the boundary between us disappears... It's not one person leading, but both of you surrendering to the rhythm. A strange sensation.

"This brings back memories."

Tennouji-san smiled.

"When we first danced, you were so nervous you were tripping over your own feet."

"Was I that bad?"

"Yes. You'd freeze up just from making eye contact."

Now that she mentioned it, I vaguely remembered that.

"I was the same when I was young. The more I felt I had to do well, the more I'd tense up..."

"...No, in my case, it was different."

She looked puzzled. I continued.

"Um... I was nervous because... my partner was you."

"..."

I trailed off, too embarrassed to finish. In ballroom dancing, you're close... your faces are close... and it was her. Of course I was nervous. I'm more used to it now, but honestly, I'm still nervous. I felt bad about how immature I still was. As we stepped, Tennouji-san suddenly missed a step and nearly lost her balance.

"Tennouji-san?"

It was rare for her to make a mistake. I looked at her face...

"...You're not the only one who gets nervous."

"Huh?"

Her cheeks were flushed. She looked away. We kept dancing, caught in this awkward mood. ...What do I do? Suddenly I'm worried about my palms sweating. She seemed to feel the same. We were both fidgeting as we danced.

"S-So, anyway, why do you want to join the student council?"

She changed the subject. Come to think of it, I'd never explained. But how to explain it...? She's so competitive with Hinako... I don't want to ruin the mood. I'll be vague.

"Well, I want to be a director at a certain company. I need a good track record, and I heard that serving on the Kiou student council would be a major plus..."

As I explained, her eyes sharpened.

"The Konohana Group?"

"Er."

"You won't name it, and you need a high-level achievement like the Kiou council. It's an easy deduction."

She saw right through me. I had no response.

"So, you're doing this for Hinako Konohana?"

"No, that's not all..."

She stopped dancing. The music was soft and beautiful, but it suddenly felt... lonely, and a little sad.

"In your eyes..."

Tennouji-san pulled me closer.

"Do you only see... Hinako Konohana?"

Our noses were almost touching. She stared at me. My reflection in her eyes was lost, scrambling for an answer, silent. Suddenly... I saw her eyes waver. Her gaze was always so strong and bright. But not now. This close, I could see it. Her eyes were shimmering with a faint anxiety. It's strange. She's looking at me with such intensity... Why am I so confused?

"...No."

My breath stirred her hair. I closed my eyes, then opened them. The me in her eyes... was no longer lost.

"I didn't finish. It's not just that. I want... to be an equal. To you, to Narika, to everyone."

"An equal..."

"Yes."

I nodded. This was... what I decided at the end of summer break. At the end of the summer, I had the chance to go back to my old life. I didn't take it. And one of the reasons... was Tennouji-san.

"After coming to Kiou Academy, after meeting everyone... I wanted to be like the people here. You're one of the people who made me feel that way."

Tennouji-san listened intently. I want to be someone who can handle responsibility, like all of you. Specifically, a director at the Konohana Group. And... I'm still figuring out what comes after that.

"Right now, I'm here under a fake title... But one day, I want to stand beside you all as my true self. The student council is just one step toward that."

Then, I'll finally be their equal. That's the only way. Tennouji-san listened, then let out a soft breath...

"...You really are a challenger."

A challenger... Now that she says it, maybe I am. A mere commoner with this kind of ambition... Yeah, that's a challenger.

"Because you're like that, I..."

Tennouji-san looked at me, her expression dazed, almost captivated.

"...Tennouji-san?"

"N-Nothing! ...I almost let it slip."

She covered her mouth, her face bright red. The next song began. We took each other's hands and started to dance again. A slow, steady waltz, as if we were testing each other's feelings.

"Let me ask you something... If I asked you to come to the Tennouji Group, what would you do?"

"That's..."

Hinako gave me this job. And as her attendant, I want to stay by her side and ease her burden. She's fighting a lonely battle. My desire to support her is strong. But Tennouji-san has also helped me so much. If she were in trouble, I'd want to help her. When she trusts me, I want to respond to that trust. How do I choose? ...It's not about salary; both would offer me more than I deserve. Is it the industry? ...No, if I'm not good at it, I just have to study. I racked my brain, sweat beading on my forehead. The only conclusion I could reach was—

"...C-Can I not... pick both...?"

"Haaaaahhhhhhhhhh."

Tennouji-san let out the longest sigh I'd ever heard.

"Swindler. Blockhead. Dense as a rock."

"Urk..."

"I have a much better understanding of you now. You're the type to put off this kind of problem until the very last second, aren't you."

"...Ngh."

She was being so harsh, I wanted to say something back. ...What about you? If I did choose, are you prepared for that?

"Oh well. That's what I thought. In fact, this is better for me. Rather than waiting, it's more my style to go after what I want my—"

"—Then I'll go to your place." Her eyes shot wide.

"Wh-What...!?"

"I choose you."

"H-Nya!? H-Hey—!?"

She made a weird noise and stopped dead. Seeing her reaction, I felt satisfied.

"I'm kidding... See? You weren't prepared either, were you."

"H-Hey, wait, um...!! Th-That's probably not what you think it means!"

"Not what I think? We're talking about the future, right?"

"Yes! Yes, we are!!"

Aren't we just talking about where I'd work...?

"I have a new understanding of you, too... You're surprisingly easy to fluster."

"Wh-Wh-Wh...!?"

Tennouji-san stared at me, her mouth opening and closing.

"D-Don't push your luck! I-If you say that again..."

"If I say it again?"

She declared, beet red:

"I-I'll make you... take responsibility for me!!"

That was a little too serious to joke about, so I dropped to my knees and apologized.

◆

After that, we danced for another hour or so. We showered, washed off the sweat, and left the hall.

"Phew... It feels good to work up a sweat."

"Yeah."

Even if some of it was a cold sweat. We were walking leisurely in the sunset when her phone chimed.

"Sorry."

Tennouji-san put her phone to her ear. I could hear the voice on the other end mention the Management Tournament. Probably a classmate. She said, "I'll call you back," and hung up.

"Tournament business?"

"Yes. But I've decided to relax today, so I'll get back to her later."

Maybe... but if they called, it must be urgent, right?

"If you're worried about me, I'm fine now. Thanks to you, I'm completely relaxed."

She'd insisted on this because I was so stubborn. Now that I'd had my reset, she didn't need to force it. And unlike me, she seemed to have her stress perfectly managed. She didn't need to stop on my account. She could do what she needed to do. My feelings must have gotten through, because she smiled and nodded.

"Understood... I'll step away for a moment."

Tennouji-san walked a short distance away and started her call. This one took a while. It wasn't idle chat; it was a complex topic that required her to think before answering. I waited on a nearby bench, and she returned.

"Sorry about that."

She sat down next to me.

"No problem. What was it about?"

"An alliance. I'm considering partners, and one of them was very insistent, so I responded."

"Oh, with your company, I'm sure everyone's lining up."

"Fortunately, yes."

M&A before, an alliance now... She was using her connections to manage her group. I might need to form an alliance one day, too. Thinking about it, I got curious.

"Who are the candidates?"

"Well... like this."

She handed me her phone. The screen showed data for about ten different companies. I scrolled through, looking at their profiles.

"My top candidate right now is the second one."

I looked at its data. It was an obvious blue-chip. Large scale, similar industry. An alliance would guarantee a stable return.

(...Hm?)

But as I scrolled, something else caught my eye.

"...Wouldn't this one be better?"

"Huh?"

I handed the phone back. She stared at the screen.

"...Really? Their budget doesn't align with mine, and our scales are mismatched."

"On paper, yeah. But... I just get a feeling their vision matches yours."

As I said it, I realized I couldn't explain why. But Tennouji-san took it seriously.

"...I'll ask them."

She stood up and made another call. A few minutes in, her expression brightened, and she laughed. I could tell from her voice it was going well. She returned a few moments later.

"How'd it go?"

"We hit it off immediately!"

She said, beaming.

"Just as you said, their vision is even grander than mine. Based on numbers, the other one was a better fit, but I'm going with them. A partner who shares your vision is priceless!"

Deep down, she didn't want to choose based on numbers anyway. She'd found the partner she was really looking for, and she was thrilled.

"...But how did you know?"

I was wondering the same thing. I thought about it... but I couldn't put it into words.

"I just looked at the data and... felt it. I just had a gut feeling it was the one for you."

In other words, a hunch. I felt bad making her run around on a hunch, but since it worked out, hopefully she'd forgive me. As I was thinking this, Tennouji-san stared at me, her expression serious.

"Itsuki-kun." She said, gravely:

"You might just... become someone even greater than I imagined."

◆

Several days passed since my outing with Tennouji-san. I was at the Konohana estate, checking on Tomonari Gifts.

"...Looking good."

With the help of the marketing firm Asahi-san introduced, Tomonari Gifts was finally breaking out of its stagnation. By analyzing customer data, I was slowly implementing a more efficient, streamlined strategy. As I was reviewing the situation, I got a video call. I set up my mic and answered.

"Takuma-san, thank you for your time."

"You too. I saw your email. It looks like performance is growing steadily."

"Thanks to you."

I had emailed Takuma-san a progress report. My company was only succeeding because of him. Without his advice, I'd have failed long ago. Because I felt indebted, I shared my company's info with him in as much detail as possible.

"With these numbers, you can start expanding."

He said from the screen.

"The catalog was a new venture, but now you should expand your existing business. Any thoughts on that?"

"Yes. I'm planning to add corporate-facing items. I've been focused on B2C, but I want to expand into B2B."

"I see... Good. The foundation is similar to your personal service, so you can build it out quickly. A solid plan."

"Thank you."

It wasn't flashy, but the risk was low. I agreed it was solid.

"That said, you're about to hit a wall."

His words were ominous.

"Expanding into a new market always carries risk. And your company has grown fast. It wouldn't be surprising if you hit some turbulence."

"Er..."

What does he see? He's not just guessing...

"How is your stock market studying coming along?"

"It's going. I emailed you what I've covered."

"Still just the basics... We'll have a quiz next time. Anything less than a perfect score, and you don't eat."

"...Isn't that a little cliché?"

"It's the only thing you'd hate. If I made you run errands, you'd probably enjoy it."

He's right. I'd learn a lot. I'd probably do it eagerly. Unfortunately for him, thanks to being poor, I'm used to being hungry. Even he couldn't see that.

"Keep studying stocks. It should prepare you."

He said, then fell back into thought.

"Right, but you have Hinako..."

"Hinako?"

"Nothing. Mmm... never mind. You'll be fine."

I felt like he was brushing me off.

"That's all for now. Your assignment is to keep studying stocks."

"Thank you for your guidance." The call ended.

(...He really knows how to motivate me.)

Lately, talking to him gets me fired up for the tournament. Maybe it's inspiration. I'd started to genuinely respect him... which makes sense. At first, I just thought he was scary and that his goals clashed with Hinako's. But now that I know him, his sheer competence outshines all of that. Still, he's an obstacle I have to overcome.

(Anyway, I'll have the marketing firm analyze the profitability of this B2B service.)

Thank goodness for Asahi-san's connection. I sent them a new analysis request. The tournament is six weeks. We're almost at the halfway point. I'm not panicking, but I need to watch the calendar.

(It'll take time for the results... I'll use it to catch up on schoolwork.)

I closed my laptop to change gears. I've been falling behind. I'd already decided to catch up today, so this was perfect. Calm down. One step at a time. That's what Tennouji-san taught me.

After finishing my schoolwork, I opened the laptop again.

"Okay, the results...?"

Several days had passed in-game. The analysis was in. I scanned it.

"................Huh?"

I tilted my head, confused. It was far less profitable than I'd imagined. ...What's going on? I wasn't arrogant enough to think my ideas were perfect, but Takuma-san had agreed with this plan.

I might misjudge, but he wouldn't. Which means... he probably saw this coming and approved it anyway. I checked the details. And there, clearly written, was the reason.

"...A competitor."

In short, another company was already doing it. And when I saw the name, I froze.

"This company is..."

This was a serious, nasty problem. The competitor... was SIS Co., Ltd. Suminoe-san's company.

◆

The next day, after class, I glanced into the hall and saw someone watching me. She waved me over.

"Hello, Tomonari-kun." Suminoe-san smiled gently.

"Do you have a moment?"

"...Yes. I actually wanted to talk to you, too."

I'd already told Hinako and Shizune-san I'd be late. We went to the cafe from the study group. A good place for a negotiation. We sat, ordered, and waited.

"From your expression, I take it you've realized."

I was still wondering how to start, but Suminoe-san just smiled.

"My company runs a B2B shopping site. We mainly sell office supplies, but a portion of that includes gifts."

Just as she said this, the waiter brought our tea. Sensing the mood, he left without a word. Suminoe-san lifted her cup and took an elegant sip.

"The real SIS Co., Ltd. doesn't have that service, does it? So you started that site in-game?"

"Yes. I established it as a new venture when the game began."

Just as I thought... I'd been curious and checked. The real SIS has no e-commerce division. It was her own project.

"So, I was quite surprised. I didn't expect anyone else to be doing the same thing."

Strictly speaking, it wasn't the same. Mine was a B2C specialty gift site. It was successful because it was niche. Hers was B2B and not specialized. It sold stationery, whiteboards, folders, desks, chairs. But... it also sold ceremonial and congratulatory items. That overlapped with my plan. Since her site already sold stationery, it could easily handle, say, a corporate order for commemorative fountain pens. It wasn't a gift site, but it functioned as one. We were rivals.

—That said, you're about to hit a wall. I now understood what Takuma-san meant. The "wall"... was a competitor. Expanding Tomonari Gifts into B2B was a necessary step. Our "sophisticated adult" brand was a perfect fit for it. This obstacle was unavoidable. What do I do...? Try to beat her? Or make a deal? And... what does she want?

"...Why did you start an e-commerce division?"

"For Tennouji-sama, of course."

I'd asked a standard business question and got an emotional, illogical answer.

"I created this service to support her. The Tennouji Group is always restructuring, so they have a chronic shortage of office supplies... I plan to solve this problem with the power of love."

She explained this with a rapturous expression. Her motive aside, she'd definitely identified a market need. I'd done my own research... and I'd also quietly targeted the office supply market. It was a whole new customer base.

"Tomonari-kun, I have a proposal." She stared at me.

"—Will you give me your company?"

I knew she'd say that. A buyout offer.

"Our services are aimed at a similar market. If we both expand, we'll just steal each other's customers. That's bad for both of us."

It was a small market. A fight for share would kill us both. So, her offer made sense. But... there was one thing I didn't get.

"Before I answer, can I ask something?"

Her eyes widened slightly, but she nodded.

"Ever since I realized our markets overlap, I've been wondering... Why didn't you tell me about your e-commerce division?"

That was the real reason I wanted this meeting. At the study group... she could have said something. We were talking about our businesses. She deliberately hid it. Why? I had a pretty good idea.

"You were... waiting for me to grow, weren't you?" She took a sip of tea.

"Yes. You were doing something I planned to do. I decided to watch. If you failed, I'd avoid the risk. If you succeeded, I'd just buy you at the right time."

And now, right on schedule, she was making her move. She'd used me as an experiment. To see if a specialty gift site could survive, how big it could get... and if it worked, she'd just take it. It wasn't a wrong move. For a cash-rich company, M&A is a standard growth strategy.

"Thank you for building such a good service. Now... please hand it over."

 


She said, looking me in the eye. Her smile was so confident, so reliable. A part of me whispered, 'It's the right move.' I sometimes feel that from people at Kiou. Hinako, Tennouji-san, Narika... It's the "capacity to lead." A ruler's charisma. She had it, too.

"—I refuse."

Her eyes flew open in shock.

"...You may not know this, but for a startup, being acquired is a success story. It means your value is recognized. You shouldn't see it as a negative."

"I know."

I've read about it. I know. I wasn't refusing because I was sentimental.

"I'm refusing because our policies are different."

I explained.

"Tomonari Gifts is a specialty site. The concept is 'no-hassle gifting.' I want to keep that simplicity." She nodded slowly.

"You're worried about quality. But I'd just operate it as-is. I'd just... change the portal to my service, for synergy..."

"That's the problem."

I shook my head.

"Adding a specialty gift service to an office supply site... that's already too complicated."

My site targets adults. Since the catalog, my user base has gotten older. The data proves it. In a world flooded with information, simplicity is the appeal. I won't lose that.

"And our brand images are totally different. Tomonari Gifts is about sophistication. Your site... isn't."

I remembered what Takuma-san taught me about the importance of a brand concept. My service is about mature, thoughtful gifting. Her service is about "easy to use." The two worlds clash. She doesn't want a gift site. She just wants my features to bolt onto hers. But you can't merge the concepts. It would dilute both. I understand now. The concept is the brand. The public's image of you... has to be simple, pure, and strong.

"I won't destroy my brand. I won't be acquired."

"...I see."

Suminoe-san let out a quiet breath. It was half sigh, half calming-breath.

"Understood. If that's your answer, I'll withdraw."

She said, standing up.

"Well then... I hope you don't regret this."

She left me with those ominous words.

◆

I returned to the estate and stared at my screen.

(Now that I've refused... this is going to be rough.)

By rejecting the merger, I've declared war. The obstacle isn't gone. It's just beginning. SIS is a massive corporation. If their e-commerce division gets serious, I don't stand a chance. I have to come up with a counter... As I was worrying, my phone rang.

"Huh? Tennouji-san?"

What's this about, so late? Maybe she's worried I'm obsessing again— I thought, and answered.

"Tennouji-san, what's—"

"—Tomonari-kun! Did you see the tournament news!?"

Her voice was frantic.

"No, not yet..."

"Look! Now!"

I'd been so worried about Suminoe-san I hadn't checked. I immediately opened the in-game news. The game periodically releases news on M&A, market caps, etc. In the news list... one headline stood out.

—SIS Co., Ltd. Acquires Tech Ventures Co., Ltd.

"................Huh?"

Tech Ventures Co., Ltd. was the VC Suminoe-san had introduced me to. Tomonari Gifts had accepted their investment. In exchange... they held shares in my company. And if Tech Ventures was acquired... that means—

"...She bought my stock."

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