Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 7 Chapter 3

In the Echo

Three days later, I returned to the estate from school and immediately launched the Management Tournament.

"Whoa!?"

I couldn't help but cry out. My in-game inbox was overflowing with unread mail.

"...Are these all... requests?"

Judging by the subject lines, almost every single one was a request for consulting. But why the sudden flood...?

(...I see. It was announced today.)

I had a hunch. I checked the in-game news. Just as I thought, there it was—an article about J. Co., Ltd. and Taisho Moving's strategic alliance.

The article was huge, maybe even bigger than the one about me fending off Suminoe-san's takeover. The view count was massive, and it clearly stated that Tomonari Consulting had spearheaded the alliance. That article was the reason for the flood of requests.

As I stared blankly at the inbox, there was a knock.

"Please, come in."

"Pardon me."

Shizune-san entered, pushing a cart. It looked like she'd brought me refreshments again.

"Itsuki-san, I thought I heard something..."

"Ah, sorry. Something unexpected just happened in the game..."

"Something unexpected?"

Shizune-san tilted her head, puzzled. I showed her the screen. She looked at the news article and my inbox, and understood.

"This... You've proposed an excellent venture."

"You think so, too?"

"The ultimate goal of this tournament is to apply game experience to the real world. This venture achieves that perfectly. The other students must realize that, which is why you're seeing this reaction... I imagine the judges are quite surprised as well."

Come to think of it, Asahi-san and Taisho were both amazed that this could work in real life. It seems my proposal hit the core objective of the tournament.

I scrolled down, reading more.

(...Taisho really came through.)

Another headline stood out.

Taisho Moving had apparently developed and patented new packing materials, mainly for shipping fragile machinery, which they would also sell independently. I'd only told him my ideal, but Taisho had delivered. Just as their name implies, they're movers. Shipping appliances is their specialty. That trait was a perfect fit, and they must have used their accumulated knowledge to develop these materials.

Just then, my phone vibrated. The screen read Takuma Konohana.

"Is that Waka-sama?"

"Yes. We're about to have our discussion."

"...Then I will take my leave."

Shizune-san put her hand on the doorknob. I felt bad, like I was kicking her out right after she brought the refreshments.

"You can stay and listen, if you want..."

"I feel I'd just end up being sarcastic. I'll pass."

...In that case, maybe it's better she leaves.

The door closed, and I started the call with Takuma-san.

'Hey, Itsuki-kun. How's the consulting firm?'

"It's going well so far."

'Figured. I suggested it because I thought you would do well... What exactly have you been working on?'

"I've put a summary together. I'm sending it to you now."

I shared the file I'd prepared so we could talk. Shimax, J. Co., Ltd., and Taisho Moving. Those were my three clients.

'...Oh. Mobile appliance sales. That's an interesting idea.'

Takuma-san praised me.

"I just found the strengths of both companies. They just... happened to fit together."

'Finding those strengths is the talent. And that is the job of a management consultant.'

Hearing him say that made me feel a little giddy. Even for me, this had gone too well to just be a good start. But then I remembered, I only got this work because I was close to Narika, Asahi-san, and the others. I was reminded again how lucky I was that we formed the tea party alliance. Those personal connections were proving to be powerful.

'Can you share the Shimax data with me?'

"Okay."

I sent the file. He went quiet for a while, probably reading it.

'Hmm... You and Miyakojima-san might be a good match.'

I was sipping my tea when Takuma-san said that.

'She's a creative genius, right? But she seems bad at networking. She could get much better results if she collaborated... She's just not a people person.'

Amazing. He's exactly right.

'You, on the other hand, are good with people. Especially negotiating with peers and other managers. If you use your strengths to support Miyakojima-san, Shimax could really take off. That's a much stronger synergy than just... covering weaknesses.'

"...I see."

So, working with Narika was the right call.

"Hm?"

A new message hit my inbox. The sender... was Narika.

'What's up?'

"Ah, nothing. Narika just sent me a work email."

'Speak of the devil. Alright, let's wrap this up. You should get back to her right away.'

"Huh? We're done?"

'Speed is critical, especially with big clients... I'll email you some notes for improvement. Just read them over.'

Well, she is a big client... I'll do as Takuma-san said and prioritize her.

I hung up with Takuma-san and saw a missed call... from Narika. She must have tried calling. I called her back from the log.

She picked up instantly.

"Sorry, I was on another call. Is this a good time?"

'Y-Yes! I... I have something I want to discuss.'

Narika sounded a little distant.

'I want to strengthen our internal cybersecurity. What's the best way?'

"...Cybersecurity."

Information security... IT security.

But Shimax already has an infosec department.

"Is your current strategy not working?"

'We have one... but with the new e-commerce site, I want to strengthen the whole IT department. I was hoping you'd know a better way.'

This means she's using the new site as a chance to update her company's infrastructure. Shimax is an old company; this kind of legacy company often has ancient IT. Wanting to fix that all at once... I get it.

'S-So... how long will it take? Can you help me right away?'

"Well, we are still under contract. This is outside the original scope, but I'll prioritize it..."

I trailed off, sensing something was wrong.

"...Narika, are you in a hurry?"

'!? N-N-No, I'm not!!'

She's a terrible liar.

I asked in a slightly sterner voice:

"This might be important, so please be honest. Why are you so anxious?"

A consultant needs the client's trust. If she's hiding a problem, it'll just delay the solution. I needed her to be straight with me, even if I had to be a little harsh.

'N-No, um... It's not about the company.'

Narika sounded like she was struggling to say it.

'I... just opened the game and saw the news about Asahi-san's mobile appliance business... That was your idea, right?'

"Yes."

'It's... going to be a huge success. Everyone thinks so. Which... means you're probably getting a lot of other requests, right?'

"...Yes."

Even as we were speaking, new requests were coming in. But why would that make her anxious?

'And, so, um...'

Narika's voice was weak.

'I... I was worried that... if you got too popular... you'd leave me...'

Her voice was filled with anxiety. She was probably fidgeting, looking down, completely lacking confidence. When I heard her honest confession—

"Heh."

'Wh-Why are you laughing!? I'm being serious!'

I felt bad, but I couldn't help but smile.

"Listen... if you think I'd do this for just anyone, you're dead wrong."

She was worried over nothing.

"Remember when I said you have 'normal' senses?"

'Y-Yes.'

"You... you're so obviously trying, it just makes me want to root for you. I... relate to your worries, I guess. 'I want friends,' 'Studying is hard'... You don't hear that much around here, do you?"

'Ngh... I guess not.'

From my perspective, someone who's fighting to fit in, Narika's problems are the most relatable. They're the closest to my own.

"This might not sound like a compliment, but... I think you have a 'normal' weakness, too. And because you're trying so hard, it makes me want to try hard with you."

Hinako and Tennouji-san have weaknesses, but Narika is probably the 'weakest.' She's the most normal. And that 'normal' weakness is the source of her 'normal' senses. They say strengths and weaknesses are two sides of the same coin, and she's a prime example. Come to think of it, Takuma-san called her a 'genius'—a word he hasn't even used for Hinako or Tennouji-san... She has limitless potential.

"I'm not that experienced either, so there's a limit to what I can take... But I'm not breaking my contract with you. Let me ride this out with you, all the way to the end."

'I-Itsuki~~~...'

She must have been completely relieved. Her voice sounded like she was about to cry.

"Okay, I get it. I'll put a proposal together for the cybersecurity. Just wait for me."

'Okay! Itsuki, thank you!'

I hung up.

I leaned back in my chair and let out a breath.

"...Cybersecurity."

Shimax has a department, but if she wants a total overhaul, it's better to bring in an outside system. Narika had just messaged me her latest company info. I scanned it... The e-commerce site was doing well, but I could see the early signs of a labor shortage. If I gave her already-overworked employees a new task, they'd collapse.

—'If you use your strengths to support Miyakojima-san, Shimax could really take off.'

I remembered Takuma-san's words. He'd mentioned my strength.

"Good at... negotiating..."

That probably doesn't mean I'm some master tactician or psychological warrior. It just means I'm good at... bowing my head and asking for help, at increasing my allies. A pretty primitive "negotiation"... Takuma-san probably wants me to work on the first one, but I can't reach that level yet. When I consulted for Asahi-san and Taisho, I learned that a strategy that uses your strengths is more likely to succeed... So I have to use my strength. Negotiation. Connections. That is my advantage.

"It should be in here..."

I opened my desk drawer and took out what was inside. It was a business card Shizune-san had given me before the sports festival.

At the time, my 'cover' was that I was the heir to an IT company... it was just a cover. But as I settled in, I realized I did need to study IT. Shizune-san found out and said, "Why don't you actually go into IT?" She'd given me this card... saying they'd hire me if I was interested. This company was an IT firm specializing in office security software. As expected of a Shizune-san recommendation, it was a 'white' company with low turnover, one that even ran commercials.

I left my room and went to the kitchen. Shizune-san was there, inspecting a delivery of ingredients.

"Shizune-san, do you have a minute?"

"What is it?"

I showed her the card.

"I'd like to use this..."

◆

The next evening, I was alone in an office building by the station. Wearing a suit would just make me look like any other office worker, and since I was here as a student, I wore my Kiou uniform. But a lone student in an office building must look suspicious. Passersby and the security guard kept staring at me. After a short wait, a man walked out of the elevator.

"Sorry, my meeting ran long..."

"Not at all. Thank you for seeing me on such short notice."

He was less than five minutes late, but he apologized. He was a young man... maybe 25. He bowed skillfully, and I bowed back. He offered me his card.

"I'm Watarai, from Horizon Co., Ltd., Sales Division 2."

"I'm Itsuki Tomonari. It's a pleasure to meet you."

I accepted the card with both hands. I'd studied business card etiquette. If you're just receiving, use both hands. I took it, then bowed again.

"Thank you."

"Well then, shall we head to the meeting room?"

I followed Watarai-san into the elevator.

Horizon Co., Ltd.'s office was on the 17th floor. We got out, walked down a long hall, and entered a meeting room.

"Still, you really surprised us. A student, interested in our products... Never mind a client, we've never had a student ask for a meeting."

Watarai-san spoke in a casual tone, probably sensing I wasn't used to this. He led me to the head of the table, where a bottled tea was already waiting. A projector was set up. They had prepared a formal business setting. I was grateful they were taking me seriously, even as a student.

"I'm sorry to take up your time..."

"Not at all! The Kiou Management Tournament is famous, even at our company. We're happy to help."

Watarai-san closed the door. I placed his card on my card holder on the table. According to business etiquette, you don't put a card away immediately; you leave it on the table during the meeting.

"To be honest, our CEO is a Kiou graduate, too."

"Oh, really?"

"Yep. So this is... kind of his order. He told us, 'That tournament is hell, so you have to help him!' Just... think of us as weird alumni."

"...Thank you."

Horizon was founded 20 years ago. The founder is still the CEO. That means he started it right out of Kiou. They're not public, but with 80 billion in revenue and 3,000 employees... they're huge. To build that from scratch... his business sense must be insane... He's probably staying private on purpose, to avoid shareholder interference.

"Okay, let me tell you about our product... HORIZON BEING."

"...Please."

Watarai-san switched to "business mode," his tone becoming formal. I opened my laptop to take notes. —So, why was I at Horizon Co., Ltd.?

To solve Narika's security problem, I needed to know about Horizon's software. They sell a package called HORIZON BEING. From my research, it's an IT asset management tool. I'm here to see if it's right for Shimax. Horizon exists in the game, but it's run by AI, so visiting in person was the best way. This was only possible because of... that connection. The card Shizune-san gave me. I'd called the number, hoping for a meeting, and they'd... surprisingly... agreed.

"HORIZON BEING is a tool that supports IT asset management. We have a wide range of clients, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications—"

Watarai-san began his presentation. The software was trusted by central government agencies and famous universities. It had the top market share, with over twenty thousand installations. That many companies are taking security seriously... It proves Narika's instincts were right.

"Using HORIZON BEING also prevents data leaks. For example, if an unregistered USB is used, folder access is restricted, and an alert is sent to the admin."

"How long does implementation take?"

"That depends on the scale. For example—"

Watarai-san answered smoothly. He's... so composed. So professional... Can I become an adult like that? I wondered. He continued explaining...

"—And that's the overview."

Watarai-san relaxed his shoulders.

"You seemed so serious, I went into full business mode. Did all that make sense?"

"Yes. Thank you for the detailed explanation."

He'd covered everything from basic functions to implementation. The client list was impressive. This software could be used by anyone... Shimax could definitely use it. As I was thinking, there were three knocks on the door.

"Ooh! You must be Tomonari boy!"

A man entered, round-faced with a bit of white hair, and a cheerful smile. He was wearing a high-end suit. It wasn't a foreign brand, but it fit him perfectly. Must be custom.

"Hello. I'm Sorano, CEO of Horizon."

"I'm Itsuki Tomonari. Thank you so much for this opportunity."

I'd guessed who he was. I bowed deeply and accepted his card.

"So? Was it helpful?"

"Yes, sir. It was extremely informative."

"Great... You probably heard, but I'm a Kiou grad, too. Is that pond still in the courtyard?"

"Ah, yes. The one with the koi."

Hinako used to feed them when I first transferred, so I remember it well. ...Come to think of it... was she allowed to feed them?

"That pond was built when I was there. The student council used the budget to change the landscape. It was a huge election."

"So the student council can even change the campus."

"Are you interested in the council?"

"Yes. It's my goal."

"Oh, ambitious."

Sorano-san looked impressed.

"If you're aiming for the council, you'd better get used to talking to adults. You have to deal with important people off-campus all the time."

"I see... Thank you."

Although... I get plenty of practice with that. I do live at the Konohana estate. Takuma-san, Kagen-san, the staff... I'm surrounded by adults who are way out of my league.

"Watarai, give him some advice, too."

"Me? I'm just a salesman..."

Watarai-san smiled, troubled.

I asked him: "Do you have any tips for sales? I've had to negotiate a lot lately..."

I'm not bad at it, but... maybe there's something I'm missing. This is a rare chance to get advice from a pro.

"Hmm... I guess it's 'reading the room.' Adjusting your approach."

Watarai-san said, tapping his chin.

"For example, an energetic young person and a stern older person... you wouldn't talk to them the same way, right? With the young person, you chat and keep it light to build rapport. With the older person, you sit up straight and have a serious discussion."

"...I see."

When he first said it, it sounded like... 'sucking up,' which has a negative connotation. But hearing him explain, the reasoning is sound. If I did the opposite... a young person would find me stiff. An older person would find me rude. Yeah, that's bad.

"But it's not really a 'sales trick.' It's just... communication. You have loud friends and quiet friends, right? You wouldn't say, 'Let's go pick up girls!' to your quiet friend... It's something everyone does unconsciously. Just do that in business."

He's right. Maybe everyone... unconsciously uses this skill.

"By the way, this works in job interviews, too. You'll have a young HR person and an older exec. Adjust your approach for each... and, well, we'd hire you, at least."

"So that's what you were thinking..."

Sorano-san laughed. He must have been in Watarai-san's interview. But... hearing him mention jobs... I felt a sharp sting of guilt. I had gotten this card, this connection, based on an informal job offer. But I've already decided to become a consultant. Therefore, I...

"...Um, excuse me!"

I couldn't stay silent. I bowed.

"I... I probably won't be joining your company!"

"Hahaha! I know. I had a feeling."

I let out a "Huh?"

"You're a student, but you came here alone. That's... unusual initiative. Even for a Kiou kid... With that much drive, you must be aiming higher than just joining us, right?"

"Ah..."

He'd seen right through me. It's not higher, just... different. But to him, it's the same.

"And, if we're being honest... just having this connection to you might strengthen my connection to the Konohana Group. So, I'm not losing out. Don't worry about it."

"...I'm sorry."

That was... half true, and half just him being kind. Shizune-san giving me this card meant Horizon and Konohana were linked. Sorano-san wanted to strengthen that link. I've learned one thing from this game. For me, business... is connections.

For others, it might be different. Hinako, Tennouji-san, Narika, Asahi-san, Taisho... they might operate on totally different principles. But for me... more than numbers, or ideas, or luck... I do business through connections.

"That said, life is long. If you ever change your mind, we'd welcome a student like you."

"...Thank you."

I bowed deeply. I felt... saved by his generosity.

"By the way... know about the 'secret trick' in the tournament?"

"Huh? No..."

Sorano-san scribbled something on a notepad and handed it to me.

"When you do business with our company in the game, try entering this code."

"Uh... Okay."

I was confused, but I took the note. I bowed one last time.

"Thank you both so much for today."

◆

When I got back to the estate, I immediately told Narika what had happened.

"So, let's use HORIZON BEING to strengthen Shimax's security."

'Got it!'

I shared the product information from Horizon with Narika. After discussing it, we decided to proceed with implementing HORIZON BEING at Shimax, just as planned.

"I'll be the one to broker the deal with Horizon."

'Okay! I won't try to steal your credit!'

I was never worried about that. It's just that I was the one who researched their product, so I plan to see it through to the end. With Narika's permission, I immediately went into the Management Tournament to start the transaction with Horizon Co., Ltd. Come to think of it, CEO Sorano mentioned a "secret trick"...

(...Huh? Now that I look, there's an input field.)

I found a strange input field in the corner of the transaction screen. I took out the note Sorano-san gave me and entered the code. And—the price for HORIZON BEING dropped.

"...So this is the secret trick."

It's a trick to reflect real-world negotiations in the game. The marketing company Asahi-san introduced me to was similar. Since that one was run by students, they just said, "Asahi-san sent you, so here's a discount," and gave it to me directly. But since Horizon is AI-run, they use this method instead. This game really is well-designed. It even reflects real-world connections.

"Narika, it's cheaper than I expected."

'Huh? That's great... but why?'

"Probably because the CEO is just a really nice guy."

Businesses are run by people. Because of that, you can be helped by a manager's kindness... and, of course, the reverse is also true.

'Still, you're amazing. I can't believe you actually visited the company...'

"I had a connection, and I was personally interested."

'Even if I had a connection, I'd be too scared...'

Judging by Sorano-san's reaction, what I did was rare. It was fine that Narika wasn't the same.

'S-So, anyway, Itsuki, are you free next Saturday?'

"Saturday? Oh, yeah, I am."

'Th-Then, do you want to come to my house!'

To Narika's house?

'You've been helping me so much, I wanted to thank you... Also, my father wants to apologize for the misunderstanding when we were kids.'

"Misunderstanding... Ah, that."

When I stayed at her house back then, I thought her father, Musashi-san, hated me. It wasn't until the sports festival that I learned it was all a misunderstanding. I felt I was partly to blame... but Musashi-san must want to apologize properly. If so, I have no reason to refuse. I'm grateful for the offer.

'And, um... this was my father's idea... He said, since it's a special occasion, maybe... you could stay over, like in the old days...'

"...Stay the night."

Honestly, I was happy. Staying at Narika's house as a kid was so much fun, it's easily one of my top three memories. I mean, staying in a mansion? How could I not be excited? But because of that, the misunderstanding with Musashi-san also stayed sharp in my mind. I visited her house in the first semester, but I didn't stay over. To stay there... just like when we were kids... It would be a great time.

"...I'll have to check with Konohana-san."

'O-Okay!'

First, I needed permission from Hinako, Shizune-san, and Kagen-san. With that in mind, I went to Hinako's room.

"Hm... Itsuki?"

Not just Hinako, but Shizune-san was there too.

"Sorry to bother you. Can I stay at Narika's house next Saturday?"

I asked Shizune-san first. Hinako's eyes went wide.

"Wh-Wh-Wh-What... Wh-What does that mean...!?"

"? Nothing... Just staying the night..."

"Why are you staying the night...!?"

I had no idea why she was so shocked. I just tilted my head, confused. Shizune-san came close and whispered, so Hinako couldn't hear:

"Itsuki-san... just so you know... high school boys don't normally stay over at a girl's house."

"Oh... Right. But... I'm already living with Hinako, aren't I?"

"That is different. At least, it is to Ojou-sama."

It is... different?

My conscience was clear, so I just explained.

"Uh, it's nothing complicated. Narika's father just suggested I stay over, like in the old days."

"I... I see. Oh..."

That seemed to satisfy her. Even if I was that desperate, I wouldn't just... announce it like that.

"...I understand. You can go."

Hinako gave me permission. I looked at Shizune-san, who also nodded. It seemed fine.

"Do you want to come too, Hinako?"

"I'm fine. You and the Miyakojima family have history, I'm sure you just want to spend time together."

Well... if we start talking about the old days, it would be awkward if she were there.

"Thanks. I'll let Narika know."

◆

On Saturday evening, Hinako and Shizune were at the mansion gate, seeing Itsuki off.

"Well, I'm heading out."

As planned, Itsuki left for Narika's house. The Konohana family car carrying him pulled away and disappeared from view.

"Ojou-sama, are you really alright?"

"...I'm fine. I won't be the reason he loses another place he belongs."

Hinako remembered the mistake she'd realized at the end of summer. By recklessly appointing Itsuki—whom she'd met at her own kidnapping—as her attendant, she had stolen his old life. Itsuki didn't seem to mind, but Hinako had reflected on her actions.

Never again. I won't let my selfishness take away his place.

(Itsuki will come back... I have to trust him.*)

The shoujo manga said so, too. Clingy women are hated by men.

(But... Miyakojima-san is so cool...)

She was a powerful rival. It was hard to just... trust him. To Hinako, Narika was cool. She might seem weak at the tea parties, but that just made her usual, gallant figure seem even cooler. Hinako had never beaten her in gym... In fact, she couldn't imagine ever beating her. To be the "perfect ojou-sama," she had to be at the top. But even her father agreed that losing only to Narika in sports was acceptable. She was so cool... but so bad with people. She had that "damsel in distress" quality that Itsuki liked. It's unfair. That's my spot. Itsuki is my attendant.

(Uuugh... I'm starting to worry...)

What if Itsuki... doesn't come back? What if he likes her house... more than this one...? '

Hinako, I'm Narika's attendant now.'

Itsuki's voice echoed in her head. If that happened... she would die of shock.

"Uu, uuuu...!"

"Ojou-sama... You're utterly devoted..."

Hinako's legs gave out, and she crumpled to the ground. She had tried so hard to hide her anxiety. Shizune watched the girl's small back, her own eyes growing moist.

◆

I stepped out of the car and saw a long, rectangular residence that looked like a samurai estate. It had been a long time since I'd been to Narika's house. It still had a solemn atmosphere. The Konohana estate and Tennouji-san's house were Western-style—luxurious and elegant—but this was different. It was quiet, austere, yet beautiful in a way Western architecture wasn't. This must be that traditional wabi-sabi aesthetic.

"You must be Young Master Tomonari. We've been expecting you."

A Miyakojima family servant guided me through the gate. I passed a dry rock garden, and just as I stepped inside—

"W-Welcome! To the Miyakojima house!"

"Whoa!?"

With a Pop! Pop! colorful confetti burst into the air. I looked closer and saw Narika, holding party poppers, smiling stiffly.

"...What are you doing?"

"I-I thought it would liven things up..."

I appreciated the thought... but it was so sudden, I didn't know how to react. Narika must have sensed this, because her shoulders slumped.

"...Hehe. I'm useless. I always try too hard. I haven't changed at all..."

"Ah, no! That's not true!"

I couldn't let it get awkward, so I tried to cheer her up.

"Uh, I'm happy! Really! I've been looking forward to this!"

"R-Really? You're happy!? Th-Then it was worth it...!"

Narika's mood lifted, and she smiled brightly. Just then, a woman in a kimono appeared.

"Tomonari-kun, it's been a while."

"...Otsuko-san. It has."

She was Narika's mother, Otsuko Miyakojima. A beautiful woman with short, neat black hair, she had a quiet air. Narika must get her imposing aura from her father, Musashi-san. Otsuko-san saw me and gave a slow, measured nod.

"Thank you for indulging my daughter's foolishness."

"Foolishness!?"

Narika's eyes widened at her mother's bluntness.

Otsuko-san, if you knew... why didn't you stop her?

"You must be hungry. Dinner is ready. Please, come to the living room."

"Yes. Thank you for having me."

"Oh, so polite. I wish Narika would learn from you."

Narika groaned, "Ugh..."

Otsuko-san... really enjoys teasing her...

I followed Narika into the living room. The large dining table was covered in dishes.

"Whoa..."

It was a full-blown kaiseki meal. Sushi, tempura, shabu-shabu, salt-grilled sea bream... everything was colorful and beautifully arranged. I knew it was a "welcome" dinner, but seeing it all I couldn't help but get excited. And Narika... looked just as excited.

"Mother, you really went all out!"

"Yes. I pulled out all the stops."

Otsuko-san said, looking pleased.

"You made all this yourself, Otsuko-san?"

"The staff helped, but I did most of it."

Amazing... Otsuko-san... just seemed like someone who could do anything. Maybe she can... It's a shame Narika didn't inherit that side of her.

I sat down next to Narika, and a man entered. Our eyes met. He was wearing casual traditional robes.

"Musashi-san."

"...You're here."

He stared at me with that sharp gaze.

"Uh, it's been a while."

"...Yeah."

"..."

"..."

...Huh? We cleared up the misunderstanding, right...? At the sports festival, Otsuko-san said he was just... bad with words... I really hope that's all this is.

"Well, let's eat before it gets cold."

We all said, "Itadakimasu," and I dug in. Kaiseki has a proper order, but everything was just... laid out. Just like his "stay over like in the old days" suggestion... maybe he was trying to recreate that feeling, so the kid-me who didn't know etiquette could just... enjoy it. I started with the soup.

"...This flavor."

"You noticed?"

I was surprised. Otsuko-san smiled gently.

"It's the same dish I served you, back then."

"...No wonder it felt so nostalgic."

I savored the smooth taste, and her kindness.

"I hear you've been taking care of my daughter in the tournament."

"Not at all... I'm a consultant. It's just my job."

So Otsuko-san knew about the game. Narika must have told her.

"Itsuki's amazing! He just started his second company, and it's already on track! People in class are starting to notice him!"

"I'm happy to hear that, but you're the reason. My first job was Shimax. It was a great start."

"What are you talking about! That's because you always..."

"If you're going to say that, then you..."

As I was about to retort, I noticed... Otsuko-san was watching us, a fond look on her face.

"It's wonderful that you get along so well."

I felt embarrassed, and took a sip of tea to hide it. Narika did the same.

"Narika, let me say this now. You mustn't rely on Tomonari-kun too much."

"Y-Yes..."

Narika clearly felt chastened. ...I don't think she's that reliant on me...

"And that goes for you, too, Tomonari-kun."

"Huh?"

What does she mean?

"From what Narika tells me... you're surrounded by women, aren't you?"

"No... not just women..."

There's Taisho... and Kita... and Ikuno... Wait? Is Taisho... the only guy I talk to regularly...?

"...It's all women, isn't it?"

Narika's icy glare stabbed me.

"Tomonari-kun has always been... a caretaker. It's a fine quality. But if you spread your kindness to everyone..."

"...To everyone?"

Otsuko-san smiled, but her eyes weren't smiling.

"...you'll get stabbed in the back."

"Gah!"

I yelped, but... she's just overthinking it. I looked at Narika... and she was glaring at me.

...Hey, Narika? Why aren't you defending me?

◆

After dinner, I was shown to the bath.

"This is amazing..."

Narika's house had a huge, open-air bath. I had it all to myself. We were in the city, so I couldn't see the stars, but... soaking while looking up at the sky it felt incredible. The food, the bath... it was like a luxury inn. I definitely didn't appreciate this enough as a kid. As I was soaking, the door to the changing room opened. I looked.

"Musashi-san..."

"...It's you."

He glanced at me, then immediately started washing. A moment later, he got into the bath, not far from me.

...What do I do? This is awkward. Should I say something? But... what?

"...You're not scared?"

Musashi-san asked, suddenly. It was so abrupt, I didn't know how to respond. He asked again.

"You're not scared of me anymore?"

In that question, I sensed... him reaching out, in his own way. Like Narika, his face is stern, easy to misread. He shows even less emotion... but he's a good person.

"No. It's okay now."

"...Good."

I thought I saw him smile, just slightly. Compared to trying to read a manager's face from data... Musashi-san was easy.

"I have something to say."

He said, in his usual deep voice.

"Do you know about Narika's trauma?"

"Ah... yes. The sports festival, last year."

"Right. She went all out, and... scared her classmates... She was devastated. So depressed, she wouldn't listen to me or Otsuko."

I see... I didn't see it, so I didn't know... but if he's this serious, it must have been terrible.

"But... I never thought it was a big deal. I went through it, too. It solves itself with age... I told you after the festival... Narika and I... we're easily misunderstood. But in the real world, strength is all that matters. Show your strength, and the misunderstandings fade. So I... I ignored her feelings."

I nodded silently.

"But... I was wrong."

His eyes clouded over. It was regret.

"On the day of the festival, Otsuko and I were watching... In the finals, we realized... she was trying to lose. We... we regretted it. We never knew she was that cornered."

To them... it must have looked like she was betraying who she was. I felt the same. And I was the one who told her she could lose. I regretted it. I never wanted her to throw the match.

"I... I should have been there for her. And as I was blaming myself... I heard your voice."

When Narika was about to lose... I yelled. She wanted to lose, to be normal. I wanted her to stay unique. I just... yelled. —Just go all out!— It was probably the loudest I'd ever yelled.

I see. My voice... reached them, too.

"Your words... they set my daughter straight."

Musashi-san said, standing up. He turned to me... and bowed deeply.

"Thank you. You... you saved her. You saved our family."

This was what he wanted to say. He's as busy as Kagen-san... but he made time for this. To bow his head to me. He loves Narika that much. He's a good dad... I'm a little envious.

"Please, raise your head."

Musashi-san slowly straightened up.

"This might sound rude... but of all the people I know, Narika is the most... frustrating."

I thought of the usual Narika. When she's quiet, she's so imposing. But when she talks, she scares people... And with people she's close to, she's a total coward. Thinking about it... I smiled.

"If she could just... be more confident... she'd be better than anyone... She's this close. I like... cheering for her. I want to see her take that final step."

So, my motive is simpler than his—

"I just want everyone else to see how amazing Narika is. That's all."

"...I see."

It's just my own... self-satisfaction. When I met her again at Kiou... I felt like I was the only one who saw her hidden charm. It made me proud... It was... almost a possessive feeling. But... it's a waste for just me to know. Everyone should.

(Yeah... I get it now.)

Why I want to cheer for her. Talking to Musashi-san... it made it clear. For me, Narika is... the ojou-sama I want to see succeed the most. I want to see her grow. I'm... looking forward to her future.

"...Um."

Musashi-san sank back into the water, looking troubled.

"I'd like you... to stay by her side."

"Stay by her side...?"

"Even after you graduate."

I... didn't know how to respond. It's not that I couldn't imagine it. I could, clearly. Narika is definitely someone worth supporting. But... I just decided on this consultant path. My future is... complicated. It's selfish, but... if I succeed, I'll want to support many managers, not just one.

"I won't force you. It's not just the Konohana family... the Tennouji family has their eye on you, too, don't they?"

"No, I'm not..."

They might be... a little interested... but how does he know? The high-society grapevine is terrifying.

"Just... support her. As much as you can. You can promise me that much, can't you?"

"...Yes."

I nodded deeply. Even if he hadn't asked, I'd planned to. Just then, I heard a door open. Not from the men's side. So...

(...Narika?)

Or Otsuko-san. The Miyakojima bath is gender-separated. It's a little late to be impressed, but... this is luxury.

(Though, in terms of size, the Konohana estate is just as big.)

A brief shower sound, then footsteps.

"Itsuki? You in there?"

Narika's voice came from over the wall. So it was her.

"Y-Yeah. I'm here."

"I see."

Her voice sounded... happier than usual.

"Hehe... This is weird. You, right over that wall."

I heard her sink into the water. It was weird...

(...Please, don't say anything... naked-related.)

(Because Musashi-san... is right here...)

"..."

Musashi-san was glaring at me. He really cared what we were going to talk about. What do I do...? This is... impossible.

"...Come to think of it... we used to bathe together."

"Huh!?"

Did we!? Even if we did, don't say that now!

"I think... we got caught in the rain coming back from the candy store. We were soaked, so Mother told us to take a bath."

"..."

"I was... crying because my snacks got wet... and I was being slow... so you washed my hair."

"I-I see..."

Musashi-san was staring at me. A... death... glare.

"And... Mother said, 'Don't tell Papa'... I wonder why?"

Because I'd have been murdered. What do I do... I'm in a hot bath, but I'm breaking out in a cold sweat.

"We can't... wash each other's hair anymore."

"R-Right. Can't... see each other naked..."

So please drop this topic. Just as I thought that—

"Naked... It'd take... some courage, but... if it's you... I'd..."

Narika, stop talking...! Musashi-san is glaring holes through me...!!

"S-Sorry! I'm just... talking nonsense!"

"D-Don't worry! I know you're joking!"

"...But I'm not..."

"You are joking!! Right!? Right!?"

"Huh? Ah, y-yeah...?"

It's all going to be ruined! I just got on good terms with him... and now we're back to awkwardness!!

"H-Hey, Itsuki? Do you remember?"

Narika asked shyly.

"We used to... um... sleep in the same room?"

"Yeah..."

I remembered that, too. Bathing, sleeping... it was all kid stuff. I could... maybe avoid a fatal blow—

"Um... T-Tonight... do you want to... sleep in the same room... like we used to?"

Musashi-san's eyes bulged. ...Am I going to live to see tomorrow? Forget sleeping. I might not make it out of this bath.

"I-I don't mean anything by it! I just... want to hang out, like before..."

"N-No, it's fine! I get it..."

...Whether Musashi-san gets it or not...

"...Even now, I sometimes think about it."

Narika whispered.

"The possibility... that you ended up here, with me, instead of with Konohana-san."

That... was a possibility. It all started because I ran into Hinako's kidnapping. If I hadn't... what would have happened? Maybe I'd have gone to Yuri's... Or the Miyakojima family might have found me, cleared up the misunderstanding... They would have welcomed me. Thinking about it... yeah. It's possible. But...

"...I don't think 'now' is so bad."

I said, to the other side of the wall.

"If I'd ended up here... I might not have met Konohana-san, or the others, at Kiou."

"Ah..."

"And your relationships would be completely different, too."

There'd be no tea party alliance. Probably no study group, either.

"...You're right."

I heard her whisper.

"Because of you, I met so many people... Konohana-san, Tennouji-san, Taisho-kun, Asahi-san... I'm so glad I met them."

It wasn't just me. Hinako and the others had changed her, too. If she realized that... she wouldn't want a world without them. I felt relieved... and then I saw Musashi-san looking at me. He looked... relieved, too. And he was smiling.

"It's good to cherish daily life—but you are not sleeping in the same room."

Musashi-san stood up.

"F-Father!? Y-Y-You... How long have you...!?"

"From the beginning."

Musashi-san walked to the showers. On the way, he turned back, just once.

"Itsuki Tomonari."

"Y-Yes, sir."

His sharp gaze pinned me.

"...Don't. Lose. Your. Head."

"...I'll keep that in mind."

I nodded frantically. Musashi-san finished washing and left the bath.

"Uwaaaah...!! H-He... He heard everything... AAAAAAAH!?"

Narika's mortified wail came from over the wall.

◆

The next morning, I woke up in the guest room. After changing into the casual samue (traditional work clothes) that had been prepared for me, I headed out of the room.

"Oh, Itsuki-kun, good morning."

"Otsuko-san, good morning."

I ran into Otsuko-san just after leaving my room. She was holding a vase; at the Konohana residence, that would be a maid's job. But just like with the delicious meal last night, it seems Otsuko-san prefers to handle things herself.

"Itsuki-kun, I've already prepared breakfast. If you don't mind, could you go wake Narika up for me?"

"Huh? Me?"

"I think she'd be happier that way."

Would she...? I wondered, but I asked her for the location of Narika's room and went nonetheless.

I called out to her from in front of the sliding door, but when there was no reply, I quietly let myself into the room.

"...Still fast asleep."

Narika was sleeping with her blankets half-kicked off.

She must be a restless sleeper... Come to think of it, I remember her being exactly like this when we were kids.

We used to sleep in the same room back then, so I was often the one to wake her up.

"Narika, morning."

"Nghh...?"

It took a few more calls before she finally stirred.

"Itsuki... It's Itsuki..."

"Hey, hey, Don't go back to sleep."

Narika sat up and snuggled up against my side. Like an affectionate puppy. Her yukata was slipping open a bit, so I averted my gaze.

"Otsuko-san has breakfast ready. Let's go to the living room."

"Carry me..."

"Right. But first, go wash your face."

"Wash it for me..."

She said the exact same thing Hinako does.

I led her by the hand to the sink and had her wash her face.

Then, with her still half-asleep, we headed for the living room.

"Time... to eat..."

Narika put her hands together and began to eat her breakfast sluggishly.

"Narika is usually an early riser, but with you here today she must be feeling relaxed."

"...That's right. She used to go to the dojo to practice first thing in the morning, even as a kid."

Narika is usually an early riser, but it's Sunday, so I guess it's fine for her to take it easy... She's completely different from Hinako, who will laze around at the first given opportunity.

"Narika, are you awake?"

"Hm...? Yeah, I'm awake."

I called out to her because she'd stopped eating, but it seems like she was only just now fully waking up.

"Itsuki, thanks for waking me up earlier."

"Sure."

"You seemed really used to it, though... You don't... normally wake up Konohana-san too, do you?"

Crap. She saw right through me.

"N-No, I was just doing what I used to. I don't wake Konohana-san up."

"I see... Well, I guess Konohana-san can get up on her own."

If Hinako were left on her own, she'd sleep forever.

Narika, perhaps still a little sleepy, didn't press the issue.

"It's Sunday, so we can't access the management tournament. What should we do?"

"I want to practice my martial arts, but... lately I've been prioritizing my studies. Since we can't work on the tournament today, I want to use the time to preview and review my lessons."

That's a commendable attitude.

"All right, then I'll study with you today."

"Great! Let's study together in my room!"

Grinning brightly, Narika happily finished her soup.

◆

"Nngghh..."

Half the day flew by as we studied.

Narika's focus was starting to wane, and she was now staring blankly at her textbook in the Japanese-style room.

I sat across from her, checking her notes while looking over my own reference book.

"Ah, Narika, this is wrong."

"Ugh... Which part?"

"This equation. It's just a simple mistake..."

We have to keep up with our regular schoolwork, not just the management tournament.

We were both currently previewing the math lesson.

"Oh, I see! So that's how it's done."

"That's right."

Ever since the last exam, Narika has been making a point to preview and review her work. If she keeps this up, she should be able to get at least an average score on the next test.

"Are you like this with Konohana-san, too?"

"Yeah, pretty much."

Though in Hinako's case, I'm not the one teaching her.

"You two are closer than I imagined."

Narika said, sounding a little surprised.

"I thought you'd be working more like a butler."

"Well, she has plenty of actual butlers. I'm more like... a neighbor who sticks close and keeps her from getting lonely..."

"Is she lonely?"

"Ah, no, it's..."

I'd probably said too much.

Still, Hinako's image as the perfect, beautiful Ojou-sama was unshakable. Narika would surely just dismiss it as impossible...

"...Then again, her mother passed away when she was young."

Narika murmured, seeming to understand why Hinako might be lonely.

I knew about that, too, but not the details. Kagen-san had mentioned it once, but never again, and it felt like a difficult topic to broach.

"I guess Konohana-san might have her own troubles, too."

Narika, who probably didn't know any more than I did, had a complicated expression on her face.

"What about you? You said you wanted to be more composed in front of people. How's that coming along?"

"Umm... N-None at all."

Honestly, I'd expected that response.

"It wouldn't be strange for you to be more composed, though..."

I recalled what Tennouji-san's father once said. No one is poised from the start, but as you accumulate achievements, you gradually become more composed. The confidence built on a foundation of past actions is absolutely solid.

If that's the case, it wouldn't be surprising if Narika already had that confidence. After all, even if it's in a specialized field, she has something she can even beat Hinako in.

"Narika, do you have a rank in kendo?"

"I do. Third dan in kendo, second dan in judo."

So she had considerable achievements.

I wasn't familiar with the ranks, so I looked it up on my computer and found out it was incredible. Third dan in kendo is the highest rank a high school student can achieve, and second dan in judo is enough to win the All-Japan High School Athletic Meet.

"...You're that amazing, so why can't you be more composed?"

"N-No, rank doesn't always equal strength, and there's a limit to the ranks high schoolers can get. Besides, compared to adult athletes, I'm still just a beginner."

Adult athletes... does she mean professionals?

Her perspective is way too broad... No, wait. Narika is the daughter of the family that owns the largest sporting goods chain in the country. She probably sees professional athletes all the time, which is why her standards are so high.

"...Just try to have more confidence in yourself, About anything."

"Huh?"

"I'm going to praise you like crazy right now. Let me know when you start to feel confident."

Hearing this, Narika stared at me, her almond-shaped eyes wide with surprise.

If she couldn't praise herself, then someone else would just have to do it for her. That was my thinking.

And so, I began to list all the things I thought were amazing about Narika.

"You're amazing at sports."

"Oh, ooh..."

"When you're not talking, you look dignified and cool."

"Ooh...!"

"And you're humble, never arrogant."

"Oooh...!"

"You're responsible, ambitious, and persistent. You'd never hurt anyone, you can empathize with others' feelings, you're sincere by nature, you're loyal, surprisingly good at teaching, and your handwriting is beautiful—"

I listed every single virtue I could think of.

How's that? Surely that's enough to give her a little confidence...?

"Eh, ehehe... Eheheheheheheheh...!!"

Narika broke out into the goofiest, silliest grin I'd ever seen.

Forget being composed, she was smiling so dopily she looked like she was about to melt.

Is this... a success?

"So? Feeling confident?"

"Yeah! I feel like I can do anything right now!"

"Good. Then let's try calling Konohana-san right now."

"Eh!?"

I pulled out my phone and handed it to Narika.

"Help me tell her I'll be back at eight tonight."

"I, I-I-I, I got it...!!"

I put on a serious expression and watched her, trying to build the tension.

Narika took a quiet, deep breath, and spoke:

"K-Konohana-san... 'Sup."

Completely useless. Why does she sound like a mobster?

"This is hard..."

"Uu... Huh? Huh? Itsuki, I can't hear Konohana-san's reply?"

"I was pretending to call."

I had faked the call to see if she'd grown at all.

Hearing this, Narika deflated.

"...Sorry for troubling you. You're always pulling me forward, but I've just been failing over and over since we were kids."

I shook my head gently at her apology.

"Don't you feel like you've failed more than other people?"

"Huh...? Y-Yeah, I do feel that way..."

"The very fact that you've failed so much proves you're confronting your weaknesses head-on. Most people don't try that hard to overcome their weaknesses, so they don't fail that often... I think all your failures are proof of how hard you're trying."

Challenges always come with failure.

Because Narika challenges herself twice as much as the average person, she also fails twice as much.

"I've said it before, but knowing that about you... just seeing you motivates me. So don't say you're a bother. You're pulling me forward, too."

When we were kids, I always felt like I was the one pulling Narika along by the hand.

But after coming to this school, Narika has pushed me forward time and time again.

At some point, she started pulling me along more often.

"Itsuki... Uu, uwaaah..."

Her eyes filling with tears, Narika snuggled up against me again.

"Just stay here forever~..."

"Hey, hey..."

"Don't go back to Konohana-san's house~~... I'm begging you~..."

Don't ask the impossible...

Still, it made me happy that she cared so much.

Just then, the paper door slid open quietly.

Standing there was—

"Otsuko-san?"

"Sorry to interrupt your studies... Narika, isn't it about time for you to get ready?"

"Ah, that's right!"

Narika shot to her feet... Ready for what?

"Well then, Itsuki-kun, I'll take you to another room now."

"? Okay."

I was confused, but I followed Otsuko-san.

Narika, meanwhile, left me behind and hurried off somewhere else.

◆

Otsuko-san led me to a room, said, "Please wait here a moment," and left.

The room she'd brought me to was...

(...This is a tea room, isn't it?)

It was a small Japanese-style room, perhaps two tatami mats in size, with a sunken hearth in the center and a lattice window.

The walls were mostly earthen plaster, and the pillars were unpolished logs. Everything was made of natural materials, yet it didn't feel plain... It was the first time I had felt such an elegant wabi-sabi aesthetic. There were no extravagant decorations, yet the room had a tension, as if I were surrounded by them.

"Itsuki, sorry to keep you waiting."

Narika entered the tea room through the small sliding entrance.

"Narika, that outfit..."

"It's formal attire for a tea ceremony."

Narika was wearing a golden-brown kimono that reminded me of ginkgo leaves.

The fabric itself had no pattern, but on closer inspection, I could see a faint, glossy weave, a brilliant fusion of elegance and splendor. Her long hair, which usually hung down, was now pinned up so it wouldn't touch the kimono, giving her a much more mature impression than usual.

"I chose this color to evoke a sense of the season. Does it suit me?"

"...Yeah. It suits you perfectly."

I was so captivated that my reply was a beat late.

Narika's feet, clad in white tabi socks, moved softly over the tatami mats, making no sound. She passed in front of me, her form so graceful I couldn't help but stare.

"The original reason I invited you to my home was to express my gratitude. You helped me so much in the management tournament, so I talked with my mother about a good way to thank you, and this was the answer we came up with."

"I see."

This was a very Narika-like way of saying thanks.

It was a really nice surprise.

"Have you been studying the tea ceremony for a long time?"

"Yes. The Miyakojima family is highly accomplished not just in martial arts, but also in kado(flower arranging), buyo dance, and sado(Tean Ceremony). We even run classes for them. I've been practicing all of them since I was young."

She even knows flower arranging and dancing.

Narika was perhaps even more multitalented than I'd realized.

"So... if it's the tea ceremony, I can perform calmly."

Narika used the bamboo scoop, the chashaku, to add matcha powder to a tea bowl she had already warmed with hot water. She stirred the powder slightly to prevent clumping before slowly adding more hot water. With a gentle flick of her kimono sleeve, she picked up the chasen—the tea whisk—and began to rapidly whisk the tea.

Every single one of her movements was perfected. They were deliberate, yet held not a trace of hesitation. Just watching her was enough to calm the mind. This, I thought, was the very picture of elegance.

I watched her in the formal seiza position, my gaze fixed on her as she whisked the tea.

When she was quiet like this...

(...Narika really is beautiful.)

She had a calm grace that I rarely saw at school, completely different from her usual flustered expression or her fiery look during sports.

I was seeing a brand-new side of Narika.

Finally, having finished, she unhurriedly placed the tea bowl in front of me, turning it so the decorative front faced me.

As Narika bowed respectfully, I accepted the tea...

"I humbly receive this."

Hearing my own respectful reply, Narika's eyes widened.

"Wow, you know the tea ceremony etiquette?"

"I've had the knowledge drilled into me, more or less."

I said this as I turned the bowl, presenting its pattern back toward her.

I was still in casual wear, and it was close to dinnertime, so she hadn't served any sweets. This made it a bit different from a formal procedure. However, every part of Narika's performance had been flawless, so I wanted to respond with the proper etiquette.

"...The Konohana family's education is incredibly broad. It makes you understand why Konohana-san is so exceptional."

Come to think of it, the Konohana family's knowledge regarding education is really on another level. Not long ago, I was just a poor student, but now my manners are apparently good enough to pass at a traditional tea ceremony.

If the Konohana family ever supervised and published a book, like 'The Complete Guide to Etiquette,' it would probably be a huge bestseller.

I raised the bowl and drank the tea Narika had prepared for me.

"...It's delicious."

"I'm glad."

A subtle sweetness lay beneath the deep bitterness, proof that she had whisked an excellent bowl of tea.

"I didn't expect to be treated to something so precious."

"Hmph... I have things I'm good at, too."

"I know."

I thought I knew all of them, but I was surprised to find there was still more.

"To think you had this skill... Honestly, I was captivated."

"C-Captivated...!? I-Is it that big a deal...!?"

"It is. If Konohana-san and the others saw this, they'd be stunned."

Tennouji-san is quick to give harsh critiques, but even she would undoubtedly give this a perfect score.

"If you could act like this in front of other people, you'd be absolutely perfect..."

"I think that all the time...!"

So she was well aware of it.

"That said, it doesn't mean you have to act the same way with everyone as you do with me."

"I-I know. There's a side of me I want everyone to see, and a side I only want you to see... Because... you're special to me."

Narika added that last part in a whisper. She might have been talking to herself... but I happened to hear it.

Special. Every time Narika said that word, I couldn't help but remember what happened at the sports festival.

...I really wanted to ask.

What did she mean by special...?

(...No, no, I can't think about that right now.)

I'd already decided when I was kicking the ball around with Narika.

Until the management tournament is over... until Narika's relationships have stabilized, I'm not going to think about it.

I want Narika to give it her all.

And precisely because I want that, I don't want to needlessly add any confusion right now.

"...Well, the thought that I'm the only one who gets to see this side of you... it's kind of an honor."

Perhaps because my mind was racing, those honest words slipped out.

As a result, Narika looked at me, surprised.

"D-Does that mean... you feel... possessive of me?"

She asked, her face full of disbelief.

I looked into her straightforward gaze...

"...Who knows."

"Ah!? W-Why are you being so vague...!!"

I didn't answer her.

After all, there are some things I'm too embarrassed to say, too.

◆

Time flew by as we studied and chatted.

I sat on the veranda watching the sunset, checking the time on my phone.

(It's almost time to go back...)

I lowered my gaze and saw Narika's completely relaxed sleeping face.

Narika must have gotten tired from talking; she had fallen asleep with her head in my lap. I didn't mind... but my legs were starting to go numb.

"Narika, my legs are numb..."

"...Mngh."

I poked her cheek, but she didn't show any sign of waking.

No choice. I'll just endure it as long as I can.

"She's sleeping soundly, isn't she?"

Suddenly, a voice spoke from behind me.

"...Otsuko-san."

Otsuko-san sat down gently beside me, careful not to wake Narika.

"Is everything going well at school?"

"It is. Though it's tough..."

"I'm sure you'll be fine."

I gave a wry smile, and Otsuko-san looked at me directly.

"You may be a distant relative, but you've inherited the Miyakojima family blood. Narika is surprised by your excellent performance, but I expected from the beginning that you would accomplish great things."

"Is that so...?"

Otsuko-san nodded lightly.

"Your grandmother... Yuri Miyakojima, was brilliant. She particularly excelled at management, to the point where she became a female corporate leader, a rarity in that era."

This was the first I'd heard of this.

My grandmother was that amazing.

"However, she had an overly free-spirited personality. She frequently ran away from home, and was eventually disowned after having a child with the heir of a corporation that was, at the time, the Miyakojima family's mortal enemy."

"That... actually happened..."

Values back then were completely different from today, but for the Miyakojima family of that time, what my grandmother did was clearly unforgivable.

"According to records, whenever Yuri Miyakojima gave her opinion on management, she always proposed bold and daring ideas. Your mother inherited that trait."

I couldn't help but smile awkwardly at that.

When the Miyakojima family took us in when I was a kid, my mom insisted to Otsuko-san, "My mom was the one kicked out, not me!" and stubbornly forced her way in. Then, just when I thought she'd at least get a proper job while freeloading, she'd abandon me to go bet on horses every day... She was definitely "bold and daring" in more ways than one.

...Thank goodness.

My grandmother wasn't some kind of criminal.

Given what my mom was like, I'd honestly suspected my grandmother might have been disowned for some heinous reason. In my book, being kicked out for eloping was still well within the range of "acceptable."

"Please, take this."

Otsuko-san handed me a large scroll.

"What is...?"

"The Miyakojima Five Oaths."

"The Miyakojima Five Oaths."

I repeated, unable to help myself.

What is this?

"It's a hanging scroll inscribed with our family precepts. We have many spares, so I'm giving one to you. Now that the Miyakojima blood within you has awakened, you are worthy of it."

I immediately unrolled the scroll.

On high-quality paper, written in neat calligraphy, were the words:

The Miyakojima Five Oaths :

One: Righteousness shall be the soul of enterprise.

Two: One shall not fear meeting with others.

Three: Corporate racketeers shall be met with punishment.

Four: One shall not forget gratitude to shareholders and customers.

Five: One swears to aid the weak and defy the strong.

"...This is... quite profound."

"The Miyakojima family descends from samurai blood. When we founded our company, we continued to manage it with the spirit of Bushido. So, these five articles are akin to Bushido."

I see...

Looking closely, Narika had mentioned the second article before. She, too, had grown up looking at these precepts.

"...Thank you. I'll gladly accept it."

"Good."

Otsuko-san looked directly at me as I thanked her, then added:

"Yuri Miyakojima... was the greatest management prodigy in Miyakojima history. As her grandson, it is only natural that your own talent for management would awaken."

She said this with a serious face, before finally relaxing her shoulders.

"Please continue to stay by my daughter's side."

"...Yes."

◆

After that, I had dinner with the Miyakojima family before returning to the Konohana mansion.

It was eight o'clock at night. I still had time to do a little preview and review. Thanks to Narika, I'd been able to really relax these past two days.

"...Huh?"

As the car stopped at the main gate, I saw two figures.

It was Hinako and Shizune-san, waiting outside to greet me.

I got out of the car and walked right over to them.

"I'm back."

"Yes. Welcome home."

Shizune-san bowed lightly, while Hinako stood beside her, just looking at me.

I wasn't sure why, but Hinako was wearing a dress. It was the kind of dress that could be worn casually, not overly flashy, but she was still much more dressed up than usual. At home, she usually preferred comfortable, casual clothes...

"Itsuki... Welcome home."

"Hinako, I'm back... What's with the dress?"

"Nothing... It's just my usual."

No way that's true...

Why would she get dressed up this late at night? I was curious, but she didn't seem to want to answer, so I decided not to press it for now.

"Can I head to my room first? I want to put my luggage down."

"...I'll go with you."

Hinako nodded slightly.

"By luggage, do you mean that scroll sticking out of your bag?"

"Yeah. It's the Miyakojima Five Oaths."

"The Miyakojima Five Oaths."

Shizune-san repeated the name, her expression clearly asking, "What on earth is that?"

I knew exactly how she felt.

In any case, I started walking toward my bedroom. Since Hinako was following me, Shizune-san came along, too.

The three of us moved together, and I looked at Hinako again.

"You seem a little closer than usual."

"...I am not."

Hinako was close enough for our skin to touch.

Our paces on the stairs were different, creating a step's worth of distance between us. But she immediately sped up, closing the gap until she was right next to me again.

...What is she doing?

"Please humor her. Ojou-sama has been worried you might not come back. The reason she's dressed up more than usual is to get your attention."

"Sh-Shizune...!? Why did you just say all that...!?"

"A slip of the tongue."

She definitely did that on purpose.

"Er... The dress looks great on you."

".....................Mm."

Hinako looked down, embarrassed.

Once I reached my bedroom, I started unpacking my bag. The Miyakojima family had washed my clothes from the stay, so I just had to put them in the closet. I set my laptop and textbooks on the desk.

Just as I finished unpacking, Hinako walked over.

"...Lap."

"Huh?"

"Your lap... Let me borrow it."

Hinako sat down on my bed and patted the empty space beside her, so I sat down too.

She laid her head in my lap.

She let out a soft sigh, and I could tell she had finally relaxed.

It seemed she really had been worried I wouldn't come back, even though I was only gone for a day and there was nothing worrisome about our goodbye...

"Even if Ojou-sama trusts you, she still worries. Especially since she cares so much about you..."

Shizune-san explained, as if sensing my thoughts.

Hearing that, I gently stroked Hinako's hair.

"...I'm home."

I put the feeling into words.

When I was talking with Musashi-san, I felt a strong pang of envy that Narika had a father like him.

But I was also well aware that I have people waiting for me to return, just like this...

Because of that, I didn't feel inferior. As moved as I was by Narika's parents and her family, I had already decided where my own home was.

"No matter where I go, I'll always come back. Because this is my home."

I was perfectly content with this being the place I returned to.

Hinako, still resting her head in my lap, gave a quiet "Mm..."

"...Then that's fine."

She said that, and not even a minute later, she was fast asleep.

It was a different feeling from when Narika had done the same... This, I felt, was my everyday life.

"Itsuki-san, if you'd like, I can carry Ojou-sama back?"

"...No, it's fine. Let her stay a little longer."

I had planned to review my schoolwork... but it was fine to relax for a bit. The management tournament would be over next week. For now, the Tea Party Alliance, myself included, didn't have any particular worries.

That's what I thought—which is why I had no idea.

I never imagined what would happen to Hinako the next day.

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