Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 7 Chapter 2
The Manager's Right Hand
Just as Shizune-san had said, "consultant" covered a huge range of fields: management strategy consultants who helped clients expand, financial consultants who improved accounting, and others in corporate restructuring, HR, and IT. There really was a field for everything.
Takuma-san seemed to be a management strategy consultant, but I figured I should start as an IT consultant, where I could more easily use my existing knowledge.
I wasn't sure if it was an easy goal, but the Management Tournament would help me find out. The more I seriously researched real-world business, the more impressed I was by how practical this tournament was. This game was showing me the possibilities for my future.
(I want to work just a little longer...)
I looked at the clock and saw it was almost noon.
"...Alright, that's enough for today!"
I muttered, half-convincing myself, and closed my laptop.
Ever since Tennouji-san pointed out that I shouldn't drive myself into a corner, I'd decided to rest on Saturday afternoons as much as possible. I'd feel too bad making her worry about me again... She also said her own grades improved once she found some breathing room. I'd take her word for it and try my best not to overdo it.
(...I should bring Hinako something.)
It was almost lunchtime. A drink should be perfect. I stopped by the kitchen, made some tea, and went to Hinako's room.
"Hinako, you in?"
I knocked, and a lazy "Nnnh..." came from inside. I went in and found her leaning her head all the way back on her chair, staring at the ceiling.
"I'm... so... tired..."
"Good work. I brought you some tea."
I set the teacup on her desk.
Hinako was also playing the game. On her screen, the Konohana Group's AI employees were running around.
"...Ah, this is good."
Hinako whispered after a sip.
"Really? It's a blend Tennouji-san recommended..."
"...It's awful."
"Huh!?"
Why!?
"Just kidding... It's delicious."
"O-Oh. Good..."
So my careful timing and temperature control wasn't a waste.
"It doesn't matter... As long as you made it for me, it's delicious... no matter what tea it is."
"Hinako..."
I was genuinely touched as she drank it happily. Though I suspect she does have opinions about the tea... She's been seeing Tennouji-san as a rival lately. It's probably that.
"Itsuki, are you done for the day?"
"Yeah. But I plan to study after dinner."
I had studying scheduled for Sunday too, so I'd just do a little today.
"Itsuki... you seem to be in a good place lately."
"Do I?"
"Mhm. Like you're more relaxed."
It meant I'd found some breathing room. Come to think of it, Hinako had made tea for me a lot when the tournament first started. She wanted to, so I let her, but I almost never made any for her... I didn't realize it at the time, but I must have been too stressed to think about anyone else.
"I'm gonna copy Itsuki and stop studying, too..."
"...That's less 'relaxed' and more 'just being lazy.'"
Hinako closed her laptop and flopped onto the desk. I just smiled wryly. Looking at her... maybe because Hinako is naturally lazy, she unexpectedly doesn't burn herself out like I did or Tennouji-san used to.
"Here, I'll rub your shoulders."
"...Okay."
Hinako sat up straight. I touched her shoulders and started.
(Whoa... they're really stiff...)
If I say that, she might get self-conscious, so I'll keep quiet. But her shoulders are way stiffer than I expected. She looks so delicate, but she's still the heir to the Konohana Group. She's carrying a weight I can't even imagine.
"Nngh..."
She let out a comfortable sound as I massaged her neck. Please, just relax for now.
"Itsuki... you seemed worried yesterday. Is it okay now?"
She asked, still facing forward.
"Yeah. I've decided to become a consultant."
"I see... I'm looking forward to seeing what you become."
She said, her expression relaxed. I'll work hard to live up to that.
"How's that? Shoulders feel better?"
"Mhm... much better. Let me do yours, as thanks."
After I finished, she moved behind me. I sat down, and Hinako's slender fingers rested on my shoulders.
(Ah... that feels good.)
I hadn't studied much yet, but I must still be tired from last night. After talking with Shizune-san, I'd stayed up a bit late researching consultants.
"..."
Suddenly, her hands stopped. At the same time, I felt a strange sensation near the back of my head. ...What is she doing? I casually glanced at the window. Hinako didn't notice, but in the reflection, I could see her standing behind me. Her expression was... blank. She slowly leaned her face toward my head. And then... sniffed.
"...Hinako?"
"!"
She jerked back.
"Wh-Wh-What is it...?"
"Nothing, you were just..."
"I-I didn't do anything...!"
She denied it, her face beet red, and she seemed so desperate she was breaking out in a sweat.
(...I should probably wash my hair later.)
Did I sweat in my sleep? Odor management is part of etiquette.
◆
At 1 PM, after lunch with Hinako in the dining room, I was in the kitchen washing dishes.
"I see~ So that's what you're up to."
Yuri was washing dishes next to me, listening. She was working in the Konohana kitchen today. She's been working here on holidays ever since summer break.
"But to be honest, I don't have any actual results. I'm worried I'm not cut out for it."
"Makes sense. 'Consultant' sounds like a job that's all about trust."
I handed Yuri a washed dish. She dried it skillfully and put it away.
"By the way, I know you're helping, but you can take your time. This is part of my job."
"I'm free today, so let me help. Shizune-san said it was fine."
"...Well, okay."
I've been helping with housework since I was a kid, so this was actually relaxing. Cleaning and washing dishes give you immediate, visible results, so it's satisfying.
"Speaking of which, business at our place has been a little slow lately."
"...Oh yeah?"
"Mhm. We were doing really well, so no one's that worried. Is this the kind of thing a consultant would solve?"
That was Hiramaru for you. So beloved by everyone that a little dip in sales didn't faze them. Still, it was a place I grew up with. I couldn't just ignore it. I tried to think of the cause.
"...Hiramaru's sales are mostly from set meals, right?"
"Yep. Especially the daily special."
"I only noticed during the break, but a few bento shops opened by the station, didn't they? You're probably competing with them."
"...Bento and set meals? You think they're competitors?"
"I think the customer base is similar. Plus, they're chain stores, so their costs are lower."
I felt like they were both fighting over the "after-work office worker" crowd. They also sell side dishes, and they can discount them. That's a big draw for office workers who can just grab a cheap, late-night meal.
"Their advantage is price. If you compete on quality, you could differentiate. The 500-yen daily special is a great deal, but... what if you raised the price by 100 yen and used better ingredients?"
"I see..."
You'd probably have to change suppliers. Hiramaru's strength is its price, but rather than get into a price war with a chain, it's better to raise quality. Their food is already delicious, so they'd have a good chance.
"See? You can do it."
"Huh?"
"What you just did... that's a consultant's job, right?"
Yuri said it so casually, my brain just... stopped.
"...Oh. Yeah, this is... consulting."
I had been overthinking it. A consultant's job is just to talk things through with the manager. It was exactly what I'd already been doing. All those times my classmates came to me for advice... that was consulting. I still need to learn more, of course... but I don't need to worry about it.
"Here. This is for the consultation."
Yuri said, handing me a small, cold cup.
"...What is it?"
"A test dessert. Kanten ice cream."
What a weird combination. It was just... ice cream on top of kanten jelly. I took a spoonful of both and nervously tried it...
"This is amazing!?"
"Alright! If you say so, it's a success!"
The ice cream had a rich, raw caramel flavor, which was a perfect match for the light kanten. It wasn't too hard, either—a nice touch. The melting ice cream coated the jelly.
"I'm adding this to the menu."
"I think it's great, but... are you sure you can decide just from my opinion?"
"What? Who do you think trained your palate?"
...Fair point. All those years of being her guinea pig had paid off.
"Can I go get Hina... Konohana-san? She should try this, too."
"Oh, sure..."
I call her "Hinako" at the estate, so I almost slipped up. I went to get Hinako from the dining room to have her try the kanten ice cream.
"Ah, Itsuki-san."
As I was heading to the dining room, Shizune-san called me.
"Sorry to bother you on your break. The laundry delivery is here. Could you help me with it?"
"Got it."
Shizune-san knows I like doing chores to clear my head. I had nothing to do in my room anyway. I'll just help out today. I get paid a lot; I want to be useful.
"Hinako, Yuri has a dessert for you—"
I called out to Hinako in the dining room, then went to help Shizune-san.
◆
Hearing "delicious dessert," Hinako immediately headed for the kitchen. And there, in the kitchen, was Itsuki's childhood friend, Yuri Hirano.
"Um... Tomonari-kun told me to come..."
"Ah, mhm..."
"..."
"..."
Neither spoke. A minute passed.
(This is... so awkward...)
Hinako fidgeted, staring at the floor. There was a reason for this silence. At the end of summer... Hinako had experienced love for the first time. And the person who taught her what it was... was Yuri. But Yuri had also declared that they were rivals.
...We love the same person. Ever since then, they'd avoided being alone. Passing manga back and forth through Shizune-san was fine, but face-to-face... it was just tense.
"...How's it going?"
Yuri asked quietly. And "it" obviously meant... her progress with Itsuki.
How do I answer...? Bluff? Or admit 'no progress'? Hinako activated her high-performance, inherited brain—
"...V-Very well."
She chose to bluff.
"I-I see~ Is that right? Oh... is it...?"
Yuri acted completely unfazed. She's definitely faking it... but I'm bluffing too, so I can't call her out. A meaningless moment passed.
"...Like... what have you done?"
"Huh?"
Hinako blanked. She blurted out the first thing that came to mind.
"W-Well, I used that manga you lent me... and we took a bath together—"
"—Hold on."
Yuri's face twitched.
"Y-You... did the manga thing in real life...?"
"? Yes, that's right... What's wrong?"
To Hinako, shoujo manga was the textbook. What's wrong with following the textbook? Yuri just looked at her, pained.
"L-Listen, Konohana-san... manga and reality are different. Um... doing manga stuff in real life... is probably way too much."
"..................What?"
"I lent them to you... but they're just entertainment. They're fiction... If you actually do that stuff, you're just gonna freak him out."
"—!"
Hinako was speechless. I've... made a terrible mistake.
"S-So, just for example... hypothetically... if I did what's in that manga... like, wearing a swimsuit and pressing up against him, or casually showing skin... in real life, that's..."
"...That's just being an exhibitionist."
"An exhibitionist!?"
Hinako's face twitched.
"...Huh? Don't tell me you actually did that."
"I-I didn't. I wouldn't."
"No, no... from your reaction, you totally did."
"I didn't! I swear!"
Hinako denied it, bright red. Yuri just stared at her with "You definitely did" eyes.
(Did I... Did I 'freak him out'...?)
Hinako remembered the bath. His reaction was weird... so that's why... It seems I did something... far beyond normal flirting.
"S-So, what about you?"
Hinako changed the subject.
"...I've got nothing."
"Ah... I see."
Hinako looked at Yuri with a complex expression.
"Ugh, don't look at me like that! Besides, you're the reason Itsuki and I are separated!"
"...About that. I am truly... deeply sorry."
"Ah—! Kidding! I was kidding, don't look so depressed!"
Hinako looked so genuinely guilty that Yuri panicked.
"Look, now I get to work at your house, which is a great experience. So, really, thank you."
"But... what I did... it was like a villain in a manga..."
"Like I said, manga and reality are different. I don't hate you."
Yuri seemed to mean it. Hinako thought... Yuri wasn't just "nice," she was strong. She didn't blame others; she faced things head-on. She blamed her own shortcomings before she'd ever hate someone else.
"Here, if you'd like, try this."
Yuri handed her the cup. Right, the dessert. Hinako took it. She tilted her head at the strange contents, then took a bite...
"...It's delicious. The texture is unusual."
"Right? ...Hehe. I think I did a good job."
Hinako covered her mouth, savoring it. Yuri looked pleased. They looked at each other... and both laughed.
"Hah... Okay, okay. I can't stand it if it's going to be this dramatic every time."
"I agree."
Hinako felt the same.
"Liking the same guy... it's probably not that big a deal."
Yuri said, stretching. She's probably right. If I find him attractive, of course others will too.
"So... let's just... be normal."
"...Okay. I'd like to be friends, like before."
Their relationship didn't need to be dramatic, like a manga. There was no villain, no heroine. Just be normal. Just... be normal...
"...Hehe."
"What?"
Hinako couldn't help but smile, then shook her head. "Nothing." Ever since she was young, she'd lived as the Konohana heir, watching others live normal lives, assuming she'd always be shackled. But love... love was different. When she fell in love, she was just... a normal person... No matter how hard she tried to be the "perfect ojou-sama," she couldn't fake this...
"I... I'm just normal right now."
Hinako murmured. Yuri tilted her head, confused.
"Hirano-san, would you like to eat, too?"
"Ah, uh, sure."
Hinako patted the chair next to her. Yuri sat down, her expression stiffening.
"What's wrong?"
"N-Nothing, it's just... you're really pretty. It's kinda nerve-wracking."
"Oh, I'm nervous, too. Because you're so amazing."
"Hey... You know how to joke, too, huh..."
It wasn't a joke... but saying so would just make her more nervous, so I'll stop. Maybe... I could tell her my true self. If she knew, she'd definitely help. She'd see the 'lazy' Hinako and just... accept it.
Hinako thought about it... but no. That secret was just for her and Itsuki. It's a little selfish, but I hope she can forgive me for this. After all, Yuri Hirano... was his childhood friend. She was strong. She knew things Hinako didn't. Hinako Konohana was often jealous of her.
◆
Monday. The Management Tournament—two weeks left.
Since the halfway point, discussions in class had become more frequent. Strategic alliances, M&A... even rivals, like Suminoe-san and I, figuring out how to coexist. You could see students talking nervously all over.
At this stage, everyone was thinking about the endgame. Some were trying to maximize their company's value. Some were defending their brand to the end. Others were restructuring to minimize damage from failed strategies. Everyone had a different goal.
And then there was me—in the rare category of 'trying to start a new business.'
"...Alright."
Today was the regular tea party. I planned to tell everyone about my goal to become a consultant.
"Tomonari, sorry! Got a meeting, I'll be late!"
"Tomonari-kun, sorry! Me too!"
Taisho and Asahi-san had business and let me know.
(Hinako... looks like she'll be late, too.)
I saw Hinako in the center of the room, consulting with other students. There was a line of people from other classes waiting for her. I looked over, we made eye contact, and she gave me a slight nod. Taking that as my cue to go ahead, I went to the cafe alone.
"...Oh."
When I got there, I saw Tennouji-san and her beautiful golden ringlets. Narika wasn't here yet, either. Tennouji-san was reading a book by herself.
(She's studying... She's busy, too.)
She was muttering,
"Mhm, I see, so that's how it is..."
and turning pages. She was so focused, I pulled out my chair quietly, trying not to disturb her. But as I sat, I accidentally saw the cover.
—Flirting for Dummies!
...Tennouji-san? What are you reading... in the school cafe...?
"Um, Tennouji-san."
"!?"
I couldn't help but say her name. She slammed the book shut.
"That book you were just..."
"D-D-Don't get the wrong idea! It's just... Hinako Konohana said she was studying it, so I got curious...!"
Tennouji-san panicked, shaking her head.
"Right. Figured it was something like that."
Since no one else was around, I dropped the polite speech.
"...You could have gotten the wrong idea, you know."
Tennouji-san muttered, pouting. The wrong idea... So she is interested in romance? She'd almost been engaged. After that whole mess, maybe it got her seriously thinking about it.
"...What kind of person do you like?"
"L-Like!?"
"Ah, no, if you don't want to answer, that's fine..."
She was more shocked than I expected, so I tried to backpedal. But, though she was blushing, she answered.
"W-Well! Obviously, someone worthy of the Tennouji Family! Manners, of course, but also strong, noble, and with the capacity to lead—"
"That's... a high bar."
"Ah!?"
I smiled wryly. Her eyes went wide, as if she'd just realized.
"N-No, that was... that's just what's 'suitable' for the family..."
So that wasn't her personal opinion. She shook her head. She'd blurted out the family's requirements, not her own. My fault for asking. Crap.
"My... preference... is... someone earnest and kind. Even if they're not perfect, they have to want to be better... Someone who will stay by my side, even when I'm weak."
Tennouji-san's face was even redder now. She peeked at me as she said it.
Back during the engagement, she would have only given that first answer. But now... she has her own perspective. She's changed.
"...You've really thought about it."
I was genuinely moved, hearing her be so honest. And yet—
"..."
Huh? Why is she glaring at me...? Was this not a touching moment?
"So, what about you?"
"Me?"
Tennouji-san looked me straight in the eye.
"Do you remember what my father said to you?"
"Th-That..."
Of course I remember...
"'Why don't you marry into our family?' ...I don't believe I ever got an answer."
It was after exams, when Hinako and I visited her house. Because I'd helped her find her voice, her father had taken a liking to me... and said that.
"H-He was just saying that... in the heat of the moment, right?"
"...Is that what you really think?"
She looked up at me, and I froze.
"Ngh."
If I agree, she'll think I'm dense. But if I deny it... what do I say? She was looking at me so intently, I couldn't think straight. Just as I was really starting to sweat—Bzzzt.
"M-My phone."
Tennouji-san picked up her phone.
"...Oh, it's Suminoe-san."
It was a message, not a call. She replied, and I asked:
"You two have been in touch since then?"
"Yes... Losing to you seems to have been unbearable for her. She's been working even harder and improving her performance."
Looks like things are really settled between them. I'd also heard that SIS's performance was way up. This must be her true form. Focused, greedy for growth. If I had to compete with this Suminoe-san, I might actually lose.
"Sorry to keep you waiting~!"
Asahi-san's voice called out. Hinako, Taisho, and Narika were behind her. Tennouji-san casually slipped her book into her bag. The tea party's starting... Thank God. Saved by the bell.
◆
The basic flow of the tea party was to sync our current status and discuss any problems.
However, now that we were in the second half of the game, everyone's path was more or less set, and there was less information to share. On top of that, this group was so talented that they could easily solve most problems on their own. And so...
"Thank goodness, it seems everyone is still doing well."
Just as Tennouji-san said, we confirmed that all members were progressing smoothly. Everyone's performance was up, and there were no obvious problems. ...Except for me.
"It's not good when all the alliance members are too competent. In that case, let's move on—"
"Excuse me, I have something to say."
I raised my hand, and all eyes turned to me. Since the conversation had died down, it was the perfect time.
"I've decided to start working as a management consultant."
Everyone's eyes widened, but I continued, undeterred.
"A few things happened, and this is the decision I made. I'm letting go of Tomonari Gifts and starting a consulting firm."
"...You only have two weeks left. I think it will be difficult to get results."
Tennouji-san's advice was on point. However...
"But I believe this is what will help my own future the most."
This was a choice I made looking beyond the end of the tournament. I wasn't doing this to win the game. I was doing this to gain experience for my future as a consultant. Asahi-san and Taisho nodded, hearing my resolve.
"I'm for it! I think it suits you, Tomonari-kun!"
"I'm for it, too. I've been thinking... you're just really easy to talk to."
Being easy to talk to is definitely an advantage for a consultant. Like Shizune-san, they also thought I was a good fit.
"I-I'm for it too, of course! But... if you're aiming for the student council, that's a risky choice..."
Ah, so that's what Tennouji-san was worried about. I'd thought about that, too. I shook my head.
"My current results are way behind Konohana-san and Tennouji-san. I don't have Narika's family name or unique skills... Even after the Suminoe-san incident, I'm not going to get picked just by playing it safe."
"...So you're going on the offensive?"
"Yes. I don't think one more big move will hurt."
My grades and background are nothing special. Just fending off one takeover isn't enough to win everyone's trust. I have to do something more. Twice. I need to make a huge leap twice in this game. That way, everyone will know it wasn't a fluke—it was skill.
"...That was a very uncharacteristic comment from me."
Tennouji-san smiled audaciously.
"To keep pushing forward even after achieving results... I respect that attitude! I'll be expecting great things from you!"
I lowered my head. "Thank you," I said to her heartfelt encouragement.
"I'm for it, too."
And then, Hinako gave her approval.
"Thinking back, you're the one who brought us all together... I've heard that consulting is a job that relies on your network, so maybe it's been the right path for you all along."
It was true. Soon after I enrolled, I'd gathered this group. I'd felt bad always turning down Taisho and Asahi-san, so I decided we should hang out, and then invited Tennouji-san and Narika since it was a good opportunity. She remembered that... For some reason, it made me happy.
Finally, Narika looked at me.
"I'm for it, too! And... please! Hear me out!"
She pressed her hands together and bowed. What's this...?
"I'm... planning to launch a company e-commerce site."
"An e-commerce site?"
I asked. Narika nodded.
"I want to build a site just for my company's sporting goods. But I don't know anything about it, so I was already planning to ask you... If you're becoming a consultant, I want to make it an official request!"
In other words, Narika wanted to consult with me about a new e-commerce venture. —This is good.
Narika's company, Shimax, is a leader in the sporting goods industry. If this consultation is a success, it'll be a clear, visible achievement. Plus, I've actually run an e-commerce site, so I can handle this. But... is it okay? Me, consulting for a major corporation? Won't I fail?
(...No.)
I can't afford to hesitate. Who am I trying to catch? Asahi-san, Taisho, Narika, Tennouji-san, and Hinako—if I don't seize every single opportunity, I'll never catch up to them.
"Narika, please let me try."
"O-Okay! Thank you!"
And just like that, my first client was Narika's company—Shimax Co., Ltd.
◆
After school, I returned to the estate and immediately got to work.
'Tomonari-kun, let me confirm one last time.'
The voice of WEDDING•NEEDS's president, Ikuno, came through the phone. It was stiff; I could feel the tension even over the line.
'Are you absolutely sure about this?'
"...Yes. Please proceed."
It was a decision I couldn't take back. I confirmed it with Ikuno.
'Understood. Then—I will now take full responsibility for the management of Tomonari Gifts.'
I had made a major decision. The succession of Tomonari Gifts—I sold my entire stake to Ikuno, completing the transfer.
"Please try to get it listed, as we agreed."
'Of course. You helped me, too. I'll do everything I can for you.'
When I decided to hand over the company, I asked two things of Ikuno: First, that Tomonari Gifts would not be absorbed by WEDDING•NEEDS, but would remain independent. Second, that he would take Tomonari Gifts... public.
We had already discussed that our business visions were closely aligned. Because it was him, I felt I could entrust the company to him. Furthermore, WEDDING•NEEDS is listed on the TSE Prime market; Ikuno has the skill to take a company public and manage it. Just to be safe, I'd asked about his IPO strategy. He said that by linking it to the wedding market he'd already developed, there were plenty of ways to increase revenue. Hearing that, I knew he was the one.
For the sake of experience, I probably should have done it myself. But with my current workload, I couldn't handle going public and starting a consultancy at the same time.
(...I'm a little sad.)
The company I'd raised from scratch was leaving my hands. It was... lonely. Goodbye, Tomonari Gifts. Go fly high with Ikuno.
"Alright... Next."
I had no time for sentimentality. I ended the call and immediately dialed Narika. She picked up right away.
"Narika, is this a good time?"
'Yep, no problem!'
I worked on my computer with one hand as I questioned her.
"About the e-commerce site, did you get the data I asked for?"
'The budget and metrics, right? I... think I got it. Sending it now.'
"Okay. I'll look at this and start picking an external vendor."
A message from Narika arrived in my in-game mail. I quickly scanned the attached file.
'I looked into it... If we're running a site, we should probably set up a systems maintenance department, right?'
"Right. If you just wanted a simple site, we could do a revenue-share, but you want to run it all in-house, don't you?"
'Yeah. It's simpler for the customers that way.'
"Got it. Then we'll outsource the initial build, but Shimax will handle maintenance. Start preparing to hire someone who can hit the ground running."
'I-I'm on it!' A "revenue share" is basically a contract where multiple companies work together on one project. But Narika wanted to run it herself. So, even if we outsourced the build, her own employees would have to run it. Still, it's hard to get it right immediately, so we'd probably outsource the operation at first, too, and then gradually transition it in-house.
"Setting up your own server is costly, and you'll want to test the waters first, so we'll use a public cloud."
'Huh? ...O-Okay! That's fine!'
"I'll send you the details later, so don't worry."
'S-S-Sorry...'
I knew she didn't want to interrupt, but I could tell she was agreeing without understanding, so I reassured her. Narika doesn't know IT; that's why she hired me. I can share the details later.
"But... Shimax is incredible. Your stock has jumped this much in just one week."
(One week in real time, about six months in-game.)
I was just... amazed at the growth.
'It feels weird saying it myself, but Shimax was already a huge company. I had the resources to do whatever I wanted.'
"That's definitely part of it..."
Narika's deep sports knowledge led to great ideas, and Shimax had the power to turn them into products. Her talent and the company's situation were a perfect, synergistic match.
"Does the pressure get worse, the bigger the company is?"
'Yeah. When the tournament started, I was in a cold sweat all the time... Ugh, just thinking about it makes my stomach hurt...'
Narika's pained voice came over the phone.
"...You're pretty normal, you know that?"
'Huh? What's that supposed to mean?'
"If you asked most students here... especially Konohana-san or Tennouji-san... that question, they'd just say 'Of course it is, so what?'"
'Oh... Yeah, you're right.'
Even when Hinako says she's "tired," she still bears the burden. Narika's worries—bad with people, scared of pressure, not great at studying—are... normal. My old high school was full of people with the same problems. Because of that, Narika... can relate to normal people. Just like she was able to convey the joy of sports to Kita, who wasn't athletic... she can empathize. That's her unparalleled talent. Even in this world, she has normal senses, a normal heart. That's her real strength. And I'm sure that "normalcy" is highly valued in the tournament, too.
Just then—Clang! 'Oops, sorry.' I heard Narika apologize. It was followed by the sound of water hitting the floor. Like a... shower?
"...Narika, where are you right now?"
'The bath.'
The bath...?
'I didn't know when you'd call. And since I'm the client, I didn't want to miss it, so I brought my phone in.'
"N-No... you don't have to do that."
Clang! That must have been a bucket hitting the floor.
"...We can talk later."
'No, it's fine! I'm almost done, just wait!'
I heard a squish, squish... probably a soap pump. My mind... unconsciously... painted a picture. Then I heard the sound of her scrubbing... and—
"...I'll call you back."
I hung up without waiting for a reply. I was suddenly... very tired.
(...Okay. Get it together.)
I lightly slapped my cheeks, trying to clear my head. I'll find some vendors before I call her back. Only two weeks left. If I'm going to get results as a consultant, I'm on the clock. I focused on the screen. A knock came. I answered, and Shizune-san entered.
"Itsuki-san, I've prepared the data you requested."
"Thank you, I appreciate it."
"This was originally prepared to support Ojou-sama. It's no trouble."
I took the tablet from her. The screen was a list of company data. I set it on the desk and scrolled.
"...You read very fast."
"I'm ignoring the sales and capital... all the company-scale data."
"You are...? Why?"
In business, numbers are vital. Shizune-san looked puzzled.
"To get rid of bias. I look at the business first, so I can make a fair judgment."
"...I see."
I'd learned in the tournament that numbers don't show the absurdity of the real world. A great product killed by a sudden trend. A company beaten by a rival because of an internal leak... The numbers don't care. A company that could succeed with one more chance gets branded a "failure." So, I look at the business itself, first. Then, the philosophy—I look at the face of the manager behind it. If I can trust them, then I'll look at the numbers.
"...This one looks good."
I found a few that seemed like a good fit for Shimax. I made a list, sent it to Narika, and ran the numbers. A moment later, Narika chose one. Good. Now, we just meet with them, and if it goes well, the e-commerce site build begins.
◇
Shizune silently watched Itsuki dive into the game, working between his laptop and the tablet. He had already forgotten she was in the room. That staggering focus... it was similar to Hinako's. And to Takuma's. And to the Master, Kagen's.
(I always knew he had potential...)
The air in the room grew taut, centered on Itsuki. It was the same atmosphere Takuma and Kagen created when they were working. Shizune, having assisted them both, recognized the change in him clearly.
—I'm ignoring the sales and capital... all the company-scale data. His words echoed in her mind.
—To get rid of bias. I look at the business first, so I can make a fair judgment. When she heard that, she'd almost had to stop herself from laughing.
That... is an extraordinary scope of perception.
"...Only you could do that."
Shizune whispered, too quietly for him to hear. You, or perhaps Takuma waka-sama... Only those two.
Normally, you can't judge by the business alone, which is why numbers are so important. Business plans and philosophies can be riddled with lies. Countless companies claim to work for the people, but are purely profit-driven. The numbers, on the other hand, don't lie. That's why all managers and investors use them to see the truth— But Itsuki... probably didn't need to. He had the ability to see through the false data. For him, the numbers weren't the point. The philosophy was.
(He met Waka-sama, and he was given this opportunity... The two aligned, and he's growing explosively...)
A complete awakening. Witnessing the moment a talent bloomed, Shizune felt something indescribable. A desire to cheer for him, the emotional thrill of seeing effort rewarded, the satisfaction of seeing something truly rare... a mix of everything.
But the one thing she knew for sure... was that if he possessed a talent this rare, there was a hope... a possibility that he could remain by Ojou-sama's side. And for Shizune, that was the most important thing.
(...I'm glad we chose him as attendant.)
And having made that choice, it was her duty to watch over his future. How far will this boy go...? Shizune watched his back, enjoying the sight of him focused on the screen.
◆
The next day, at school. "Itsuki!" During the break, someone called me from the classroom doorway. I got up and walked over.
"Narika, what's up?"
"I came to thank you for yesterday!"
She said, her eyes sparkling. I could almost see a tail and ears, wagging so hard they were a blur.
"Are you not worried about people watching anymore?"
"Huh? ...Ah!?"
Narika, realizing she was the center of attention, went bright red and ducked out of sight. I'd thought it was strange for her to be so loud. So it wasn't on purpose.
"I-I was in a hurry, so..."
"You could have just messaged me!"
"What are you saying!? This is something I had to say in person!"
She was so serious about these things. It was one of her virtues.
"Ahem... You were a huge help! Thanks to you, I feel like this is going to go really well!"
"That's great. The contract is still active, so just keep sharing the business data regularly."
"Right! I'm counting on you!"
Our consulting contract was for one year—two weeks in real-time... It would last until the tournament ended. It didn't need to be that long, but given the timing, we'd agreed on a clean cutoff.
"I'll send the payment today, too! To your new company?"
"Yes. Please send it to Tomonari Consulting."
Tomonari Consulting Co., Ltd. — my second company. Even after being teased, I'd used a similar name... In my defense, the moment I'd decided to become a consultant, Narika had hired me. I was grateful for the work, but I'd been swamped.
"I mean... your naming sense is still... so basic."
As I expected, more teasing—
"Hey, you're one to talk. Shimax is hardly any better."
"What!? A-Are you dissing my ancestors' naming sense!?" I didn't want to hear it from her... but then again, her company's name was inherited.
"Let me tell you! Shimax! It comes from the philosophy of wanting to be the biggest in this island nation... 'Shima' and 'Max'!"
"I-I see..."
Still... isn't that a little too simple? Oh well. In the end, what matters is that it's easy for customers to remember. In that sense, maybe Shimax is a great name.
I said goodbye to Narika and went back into the classroom.
"Ah, hey, hey, Tomonari-kun."
This time, Asahi-san called me over.
"You free later?"
"Yeah. Can't we talk here?"
"Mmm... I'd rather it just be us, if possible."
That's rare... Asahi-san, for better or worse, doesn't really care what others think. For her to ask for a private meeting... This was a first.
But as the tournament neared its end, everyone was looking for private places to talk. The landings on the stairs, the corners of the halls... all the places that were usually empty were now constantly occupied.
"Break time might be tough. How about after school? At the usual spot?"
"Mhm, that'd be great!"
The tables at that cafe are spaced far apart. If we keep our voices down, we won't be overheard. And... probably because of the "Noble Tea Party" rumors, our usual table is always left empty, like it's reserved. It has the best view, too... I always feel a little bad, but... we'll just have to use it again.
◆
And so, after school.
I let Hinako and Shizune-san know I'd be late, and went to the cafe with Asahi-san.
"So, what did you want to talk about?"
Asahi-san finished her tea, then spoke with a serious expression:
"Actually... I want to increase my company's revenue."
About ten seconds of silence passed between us. After a moment, I finally understood what she meant.
"...I see. You want to beat your competitors."
"Exactly~! Thanks for getting it without me having to spell it out."
If she just wanted to increase revenue, she could have said that in the classroom. The reason she didn't... was because she didn't want to be overheard. That meant she had a specific rival she wanted to surpass, and she wanted to do it quietly.
"My company isn't the industry leader like Miyakojima-san's. If my rivals find out what I'm doing, they'll pass me right up. It's kinda petty, I know, but I don't want anyone to know..."
"...Your industry must be really competitive."
Narika's Shimax is so far ahead of second place that it doesn't matter. But Asahi-san can't do that. I remembered that J. Co., Ltd. was ranked fourth in the electronics retail industry.
"So! I want to formally hire you! I saw you and Miyakojima-san talking... it looked like it was going well, right?"
"Yeah. You're right."
"I wanna get in on that action, too~"
Asahi-san gave me a playful, upward glance.
...You don't have to do that. I'd help you anyway.
"I accept. You did me a favor by introducing me to that marketing company."
"Great! Then take this! It's my company's data!"
She was prepared. She must have expected me to say yes.
Asahi-san handed me a tablet and also launched the game on her laptop to send me the data. I quickly scanned J. Co., Ltd.'s financial information. Thanks to Takuma-san's guidance, I was getting used to reading balance sheets and P&L statements. I could understand the content much faster than before.
"...Your revenue from elderly customers is low."
"Yeah~ But that's just how electronics are, y'know?"
Appliance functions change so fast, it's probably hard for older people to buy them.
"You used to sell appliances designed for seniors... Did you stop making them?"
"Mhm. We tried advertising, but the numbers never took off~ We were trying to match the low-birthrate-aging-population trend, so everyone was pretty bummed about it."
According to the data, that was three years ago—meaning this was real life, not the game. The venture itself failed, but the products were already developed. With that foundation, we could build a flexible strategy in this area.
"Asahi-san, what does this department do?"
"Hm? Uh... this one is..."
The font was too small. Asahi-san leaned in close to my laptop screen. Just then, our foreheads lightly bumped.
"Ah!"
"Ah!"
We both cried out at the same time. We reflexively pulled back and looked at each other.
"S-Sorry..."
"N-No, my bad..."
We must have been too focused and misjudged the distance. Asahi-san's cheeks were red, and she looked embarrassed.
"...So you can get embarrassed."
"O-Of course I can! I'm a girl, y'know!?"
Asahi-san glared at me.
"I just thought you'd laugh it off..."
"With any other guy, maybe! But you're different!"
"Different?"
What does that mean? I tilted my head, confused. Asahi-san's face got even redder, and she said, flustered:
"Waah, waaah!? Forget it! That didn't count!?"
"O-Okay."
Even her ears were red. I decided to just do as she asked.
"Fine... That... I can only say this because it's now."
She calmed down a little and started to explain:
"When you first enrolled, I was worried about you... I mean, sometimes people transfer in, can't keep up, and just... transfer out. You seemed like a classic case..."
I couldn't argue. I really couldn't keep up back then. I was a total commoner. If I let my guard down, I'd slip right back... My core hasn't changed.
"But, man, was I wrong. You worked super hard and got up to speed right away. Konohana-san, Tennouji-san, and Miyakojima-san all rely on you... And now I'm the one coming to you for advice."
Asahi-san said, looking right at me.
"You grew so much, so fast... It's just... really amazing. And cool... So, um..."
She trailed off, blushing again.
"A-Actually, never mind! Forget everything I just said!"
"O-Okay..."
I'll just pretend I didn't hear it. I tried to steer the conversation back to the tournament... but no, the atmosphere was too weird for a serious discussion now. Both of us were bright red.
"Ahhh, jeez! This is so awkward! Ugh, so embarrassing~~"
Asahi-san held her head, yelling,
"I'm not usually like this~~!!"
I could only manage a strained laugh. "Haha..." She's usually so casual and easygoing... This sudden change in atmosphere felt... kinda unfair.
◆
The next morning.
"Tomonari! Help me!"
As soon as I got to school, Taisho came to my desk, pressing his hands together and bowing.
"Uh, is this a consulting request?"
"Yes!"
"I'd like to say yes... but I'm really busy. Can I hear the details first and then decide?"
"Of course!"
The Shimax work was ongoing, and I hadn't even come up with a strategy for Asahi-san's J. Co. yet. More work was great, but I was nearing my limit.
"I'll start with the conclusion—my family's business is being stolen by an e-commerce company!"
Taisho yelled, covering his face with his hands. Like the protagonist of a tragedy.
"...Come to think of it, the logistics industry has seen a big shake-up lately."
"Yeah. The biggest foreign e-commerce platform officially entered the logistics business."
The foreign e-commerce giant—Amazon. It was a platform well-known in Japan, and in the game, it had just announced its entry into logistics. It already offered logistics services overseas, and the consensus was that domestic shipping companies were in for a major blow.
"Amazon isn't a student-run company, is it? For them to make a move like that..."
"Oh, you didn't know?"
Taisho said, sounding surprised.
"It happens every year. When the game gets stagnant, the school creates events to shake things up."
"...I see. So Amazon entering logistics is one of those events."
"Yep. The logistics industry has been stable since the game started, so it got targeted."
Taisho said mournfully. What a terrifying school. They'll stop at nothing to train top-tier managers.
"When stuff like this happens, it makes me think it could happen in real life, too. So I want a serious counter-plan."
"I see..."
"And it is likely, isn't it? Amazon uses shipping companies now, but their service is trusted worldwide, and they have the infrastructure... Logistics is essential for every industry. Even if it's not Amazon, someone else could wipe us out."
Spoken like the heir to Taisho Moving. He really knows his industry. It also showed that the Kiou Academy admins were no slouches. The Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry is involved in this game. This scenario was no doubt created by experts, which means it's highly credible.
"I know it's a lot, but you've run an e-commerce site, right? Any hints would be... a lifesaver...!!"
"I see... This is a tough one. Give me some time."
"Right! If there's any company info you need, just ask!"
Taisho must have been really anxious. He gave me a deep bow. He wants a solid plan because this could happen. I want to honor that, but this is... hard. I'll just have to be as fast and careful as I can.
◆
During lunch break, on the roof of the old student council building, Hinako and I were having our usual private meal.
"Itsuki... thinking about something?"
"Yeah. The requests from Asahi-san and the others are tough..."
I thought about the two problems while I ate. Asahi-san wants to increase sales to beat her rivals. Taisho wants a way to survive the Amazon storm. They were both trying to clear a high hurdle.
"What do you want next?"
"M-Mhm... The tamagoyaki..."
I picked up the egg roll from the elegant bento box with my chopsticks and brought it to her mouth.
"Here. Ahh—"
"Ah, ahh—..."
Hinako turned away, her cheeks red, and opened her small mouth. She was completely different from before. When I first became her retainer, she took this for granted, but lately, she seems... stiff. No, it's not "stiff," it's more like...
"...Hinako."
"Wh-What...?"
"Are you... by any chance... embarrassed?"
"Bfft!?"
She almost spat out the egg, covering her mouth with her hand.
"You don't have to hide it. That's the most natural reaction."
I was plenty embarrassed at the beginning. Honestly, for a healthy high school guy, this is not good for the heart. I've always endured it, but I was panicking inside.
"Maybe it's time you graduated from being fed."
"I-I-It's not... time to graduate... yet..."
"No, if it's that awkward, we should stop. It's a pain if we're late for class..."
As I said it, I felt a pang of loneliness myself. I was always a mess... but I can't deny it was a comfortable time. Should I continue this, or end it? I was torn.
"We should also rethink bathing together..."
"Ehh...!?"
Hinako let out a sound that was almost a scream.
"B-But that's... my vested interest..."
What do you mean, "vested interest"... She's been acting weird during baths lately, too. Maybe this is the chance to recalibrate our distance. At least, that's what I thought. But Hinako was different.
"..................No."
"No?"
Her large eyes shimmered with tears as she looked up at me...
"..................We can't?"
She pleaded in a faint breath, like she was delirious with fever. ... ...... .........
".........................................It's not... impossible."
What am I saying? I should have thought this through. I ignored that rational voice and brought the grilled fish to her mouth.
"Ahh—"
"Ah, ahh—..."
She chewed, then smiled brightly.
"Delicious... Ehehe..."
She was still a little stiff, but she looked completely blissful, giving a shy, sweet smile.
(...Oh well. She's cute, so I guess it's fine.)
I suddenly felt like it didn't matter. She's cute, so it's fine, right? In truth, this lunch break was a relaxing time for me, too. It was a precious break, a chance to escape the unique atmosphere of Kiou Academy. I'm just... protecting this time. Yeah, that's it. I swear I have no ulterior motives.
"...About the bath, the other day."
Since we were on the topic, I brought it up. Hinako averted her eyes, embarrassed.
"Th-That... I... did something weird..."
"...Yeah, I can't deny it was weird."
She whimpered, "Uu..." But my point wasn't just to warn her. This is a good chance to say it.
"When I first started, you got yelled at by Kagen-san because of that 'three-second rule' I taught you, right?" Hinako nodded.
"It reminded me of that... It's fine with me, but it wouldn't be good if you did that to... other people... That's why I said something."
"...I see."
Hinako seemed to understand, and she smiled gently. But then she tilted her head.
"Hm?"
"Itsuki... 'not good' how?"
She looked at me with innocent eyes.
"If I did that to someone other than you... would you... be bothered?"
...I didn't know how to answer. But, thinking calmly, of course I'd be bothered. Just like the three-second rule, if she did that, her "perfect ojou-sama" mask would slip. As her retainer, I must prevent that. I don't even need to think about it. I shouldn't.
"Of course I'd be bothered."
"...You'd be bothered."
When I answered, Hinako's face broke into a wide, silly grin.
"You'd be bothered...? I see~~... Oho~~..."
She looked completely satisfied, smiling sweetly.
"...Even if you weren't worried, I'd never do that to anyone but you."
"I-I see."
"Mhm... I wouldn't."
Hinako declared. If she won't do it to anyone else, it's fine... Hm? Wait, is that fine...? Whatever. I'll think about it if it happens.
"Hinako, can I ask you about the tournament?"
She nodded.
"Do big corporations try to do everything in-house, to avoid relying on other companies?"
"...That's the ideal, but it's not realistic."
She replied, thinking.
"Part of it is that 'vested interest' problem I just mentioned..."
I still don't know what you mean by 'vested interest'...
"If you try to... cancel an existing service, you get backlash from all sorts of places... So unless you're a really big company, you don't even try."
After all, if you bring a service in-house, you're taking work from another company. Just like Taisho and the others watching Amazon. It's bound to cause friction.
"Second... is knowledge. Even if you try, if you don't have the know-how, the quality will definitely be lower... You can fix that over time, but customers won't wait."
"...Right. It's a long-term investment for the company, but a visible drop in quality for the customer. They'd just want you to go back to the old way."
"Exactly... And even if you could share knowledge, no one will, because of the first problem... Haaah."
Hinako finished with a sleepy yawn. Right, it's lunch. No more complex topics. It makes sense that you'd lack knowledge for a new venture. And you can't ask the people you're trying to replace. To overcome that, your company's core strength is what matters. Narika's Shimax is currently building its site based on my plan. It seems fine, but hearing this... I'm a little scared. I should talk to her again about quality control.
(...Stopping Amazon seems unrealistic.)
Shimax is big, but Amazon is on another level. Their corporate strength is insane. They could smash right through both of Hinako's concerns. It's probably impossible to slow them down. What should I do... I thought, picking up the papers from the floor.
"What's that...?"
"Data on J. Co. and Taisho Moving. My eyes get tired from the screen, so I printed it."
"...I know the feeling."
I've been staring at screens so much. This is also just... a change of pace. Plus, paper is light. Laptops and tablets are hard to use without a desk. Paper, I can just read on the floor. Takuma-san used paper, too. Now I think I get it.
—You have a talent for seeing the truth behind the data. That's what Takuma-san told me. Behind the data. The truth you can't see on the surface. The hint must be there. ...Find it. Find the advantage that they haven't even noticed. Find J. Co.'s weapon. Find Taisho Moving's weapon. Find it. It has to be there.
(...Damn, I wish I had more time.)
I have to solve their problems fast. The anxiety was real, and it was blocking my thoughts. The game is almost over. I can't just agonize over it. If there was a way to solve both problems at once...
"............Ah."
Solve both problems at once. When I thought that... the dots connected. The two problems, which I'd thought were unrelated, just... linked together.
"...Hinako, sorry, can you go home by yourself today?"
"...You thought of something, didn't you?"
"Yeah."
This will work. It's a solid idea. I just need to check the feasibility and budget, and then tell them. Hinako must have sensed my confidence. She nodded, pleased.
"Mhm... I'll wait for you outside."
"You can just go home, really."
She shook her head.
"Because I want to hear... what you're going to do. Right away."
It seemed like she'd regret going home. Hinako... was looking forward to this.
"Alright. I'll do my best to give you a good report."
"...I'm looking forward to it."
◆
After school, I asked Taisho and Asahi-san to meet me at the usual cafe. I had them sit side-by-side and look at my laptop screen.
"Uh... I'll start the presentation."
Hearing this, Asahi-san and Taisho started clapping to hype things up.
"Yaaay—!"
"To-mo-nari! To-mo-nari!"
"...A-Anyway... please stop."
It was pretty embarrassing, so I needed them to calm down. I cleared my throat and looked at them.
"First, let's review your requests. Asahi-san, you want to increase sales to beat your rivals. Taisho, you want a countermeasure for Amazon entering the logistics market. Is that correct?"
They both nodded, so I continued.
"I'm proposing one new venture that will solve both problems."
"One...?"
Asahi-san murmured. I nodded.
"I'll explain each of your situations first. Asahi-san, your J. Co. has low sales among the elderly. As you said, the whole industry has this problem... which means, if only J. Co. can solve it, you'll beat the competition."
"...So, a new business targeting seniors?"
Exactly. Her problem could be solved by targeting seniors.
"On the other hand, Taisho. Your Taisho Moving's strength is its history. It's trusted by all age groups, and you have a massive network of branches, even in remote areas. Amazon can't just copy that kind of coverage easily."
"Yeah! When it comes to branch numbers, we're number one!"
Exactly. I noticed that too. Taisho Moving had an advantage Amazon couldn't replicate.
"By combining the solutions to both, I propose this."
I switched the slide. The new venture on the screen was—
"────Mobile Appliance Sales."
Taisho and Asahi-san's eyes went wide. Simply put, mobile sales means loading products onto a truck and selling them directly in residential areas. Roasted sweet potatoes are common, but bento shops also do it at office buildings. There are a surprising number of types. Using that method... to sell appliances. It was a combination no one had heard of, but it was fine. I explained why I thought it would work.
"Appliances have a lifespan, even for seniors. The reason they don't buy... is that they don't have a way to."
Asahi-san nodded in agreement. She must have felt that, too.
"Seniors... don't really use the internet. They won't look at e-commerce sites. I experienced that at my last company... So, younger people buy for them, online or at big city retailers."
When I ran Tomonari Gifts, I faced this exact problem, which is why I started the catalog division. Young people and old people... You need different channels for each.
"So, mobile sales. It won't burden seniors with bad backs or legs. They can buy appliances directly. If you open up this market, you'll capture the elderly demographic that no one else has... And J. Co. already has those senior-focused products. This is their chance."
Asahi-san said her employees were devastated when they stopped... This could be their redemption.
"And... Taisho Moving will handle the logistics."
I looked from Asahi-san to Taisho.
"Like I said, Taisho Moving is trusted, and your network is massive... You're perfect for this."
Seniors know Taisho Moving. That sense of security is invaluable. You have a brand image built over years. Amazon can't copy that.
"Also, transporting delicate machinery like appliances requires care. This is a huge opportunity for word-of-mouth... If it goes well, your core moving business will gain trust. 'If it's fragile, call Taisho Moving.' Like that."
We're surrounded by tech. The demand for shipping computers, game consoles... it's only going up. Taisho Moving could get a head start.
"By the way, I found a precedent... This example shows it's highly feasible."
To add weight to my proposal, I showed them the case study. I handed them the printouts. A local shopping district, to compete with online supermarkets, started a mobile grocery service. They loaded up a local logistics truck with produce, fish, and meat... It was very similar to my proposal.
"So, that's it. What do you think?"
I asked them. But... no reaction.
"...Um?"
Was there a flaw? I watched them, worried.
"This............"
"Yeah............"
Asahi-san and Taisho just stared at the papers.
"...This would work... in real life, wouldn't it...?"
Taisho whispered.
"Tomonari... you might have just come up with something incredible."
"R-Really...?"
I was shocked. I hadn't expected that reaction. But... that's why I'd proposed it. Asahi-san had failed once. Taisho was fighting a real-world threat. They both had real-world problems. I wanted to give them a real-world solution.
"Let's do it. I'm 100% in."
"Yeah. Me too."
The rowdy atmosphere from before was gone. They were both completely serious.
"Tomonari, what else do we need?"
"Well... if you had special packing materials for fragile machinery, that would be good."
"Great idea! Let's develop it from scratch and get a patent!"
Taisho was fired up.
"Me!? What do I do!?"
"Asahi-san, you should find your R&D specialists. It's time to revive that senior products division."
"Right!"
Asahi-san was fired up, too. Their eyes were burning with passion.
"I can't sit still... Sorry, I'm going home! I wanna start now!"
"Me too!"
Taisho and Asahi-san packed up and ran toward the school gate. They couldn't even wait for their cars; they just wanted to get home as fast as possible.
"Tomonari!"
Taisho yelled back from a distance.
"You're awesome! Seriously amazing! I totally respect you!!"
He shouted. That was, without a doubt, the best praise I could have received.
"Thank you!"
I couldn't help but shout back. I felt... something hot, right in my chest.
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