Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 8 Chapter 3

A Holiday at the Konohana House

Saturday.

I woke and opened the curtains, my gaze landing on the documents I'd left on my desk.

(...Alright, I have to get this report done in the next two days.)

The Self-Interview Report.

It was the document President Minato gave me yesterday. I just needed to log what I did over the weekend, but the problem, of course, is that I live in the Konohana mansion.

(I can't let them find out I'm living with Hinako...)

I'd have to fudge the details. If I casually mentioned the scale of the mansion, they'd ask, "Is your house really that big?" My cover story is the heir to a mid-sized IT company, after all.

I'd also have to rephrase all the "servant" work as much as possible.

Still...

(I'll fine-tune the content tomorrow. For now, I'll just record events as they happen.)

After all, President Minato did say she wanted it to be like a diary. That must mean she wants to see the real me, which is easier to spot when I'm relaxed.

So, I washed my face and changed into my servant's uniform, just like any other day.

—6:00 AM.

My weekend morning routine is mostly fixed. First, I leave my room and clean the mansion.

"Good morning."

The other servants were also emerging from their rooms, so I gave a simple greeting. Everyone is older than me. The youngest are twenty-one or twenty-two; the oldest are in their forties or fifties.

"Tomonari-kun, could you lift this vase for me for a moment?"

"Please, let me."

I was wiping the staircase railing with a cloth when a maid asked for my help, so I headed right over. The vase was filled with cosmos, defined by their pale pink petals. Flowers like that always brighten up the scenery indoors.

"Do these need to be changed out?"

"These are fine, but the ones in the entryway and guest room do. I hear today's guest likes cyclamen, so we're changing them to match their preference."

"Got it. I'll go get them from the gardener."

"Thank you."

I set the vase aside and went to find the mansion's gardener. Whenever the Konohana house has visitors, they change the art and flowers. This is to catch the guest's eye and leave the best possible impression.

"Excuse me."

I went outside and spoke to the gardener who was maintaining the courtyard.

"Could I get some cyclamen?"

"Sure. How many?"

"For a visitor. They're for the entryway and the guest room..."

"Then you'll need about ten. I don't think cyclamen will match the current vases, so I'll prepare new vessels. Meissen or Herend would be suitable..."

Meissen, Europe's first porcelain brand, born in Germany in the 18th century. Herend, a national treasure brand from Hungary, born in the 19th century. Both manufacture porcelain, so they make tea sets as well as vases. Ever since I became a caretaker and started living at the Konohana mansion, I've had many chances to interact with porcelain. Vases and tea sets are basically all porcelain, and there are countless brands. Meissen, Herend, Wedgwood... Becoming naturally familiar with these names is probably a privilege of the upper class. But I'm just a commoner mooching off of them...

"...That should do it."

The gardener brought over a pot of cyclamen and skillfully arranged them in a vase. The cyclamen petals were a mix of red and pink, and the white vase highlighted their color. The current cosmos were a similar color, so I'd wondered if changing the vase was necessary. But seeing this, it was clear the combination created its own unique work of art.

"It's beautiful."

"Hahaha, thank you. I'll put the cyclamen and vases on a cart. Please take this sample to the maids as well."

A few minutes later, I took the cart with the ten cyclamen and vases, along with the sample, back to the mansion. When I gave the flowers to the maid cleaning the entryway, she immediately changed the display. She understood how to arrange it just from the sample. The Konohana maids are no joke. Shizune-san must have trained them well.

—7:00 AM.

I ate breakfast in the staff dining hall. Compared to the one Hinako and the others use, this room is plainer, but it's still leagues beyond a normal home. There are multiple antique tables, enough for nearly fifty servants to eat at once. We stagger our meal times, so we're never all here, but eating a meal surrounded by so many maids and butlers was a strange sight, and it took me a long time to get used to it.

"Regarding the entryway cleaning, an announcement: the vases must be—"

Shizune-san, the head maid, crisply gave instructions to the dining servants. She uses breakfast to announce business, so she's the only one who eats beforehand. Her schedule is tight because of her responsibilities.

"Also, we're short-staffed for trash disposal. Is anyone—"

"Ah, I'll do it."

I raised my hand, and Shizune-san nodded. I'm normally Hinako's caretaker and have to go to Kiou Academy, so it's hard for Shizune-san to assign me a fixed servant's area. Because of this, I try to proactively take on tasks like this when they're short-staffed.

"That is all. Let's all do our best today."

Those who finished eating returned to their posts. After I finished, I helped with the trash, and then went back to cleaning.

—10:00 AM.

The alarm on my phone vibrated in my pocket. I returned to my room, changed into a fresh servant's uniform, checked my appearance, and left. I walked down the long hall and opened the door to my destination.

"Hinako, it's morning."

"Nngh..."

I pulled open the long curtains, letting the sunlight in. Hinako shifted on the bed.

"Itsuki..."

"Hm?"

"...Carry."

Her eyes were still shut as she held out her arms.

"...Alright, alright."

I picked up the sitting Hinako, carried her to the sink, and got her ready to wash her face. I've learned something recently: when she's like this, she's not really awake. In this half-asleep state, Hinako is even clingier than usual. She always presses against me like this, which is why I change into clean clothes before coming to wake her.

"Wash me..."

I used a headband to pull back her bangs and washed her face as gently as possible.

"Dry me..."

I gently dabbed her face with the high-end towel next to the sink.

(...She should be waking up soon.)

On weekdays she's half-asleep all the way to school, but today's a holiday. She's had plenty of sleep. On holidays, she usually wakes up after washing her face. That said, Hinako's skin... is so soft. Like smooth tofu. I touched my own face and the texture was completely different. Why is her face so soft? As I was touching her soft cheek through the towel—

"...Aheh?"

"You're awake."

Hinako's eyes snapped open.

"...G-Good... morning..."

"Good morning. All dry."

I folded the towel and took off the headband. Hinako, without even fixing her messy bangs, stood up—cheeks bright red—and ran out of the room. I didn't know what happened. I followed her out and saw Shizune-san in the hall, checking if the paintings were straight.

"Sh-Shizune..."

"Ojou-sama? Good morning."

"Wh-Why didn't you wake me up before Itsuki came..."

"I did, but you said you were too sleepy, and that I didn't need to today..."

Hinako pounded her little fists against Shizune-san. Shizune-san just watched her, completely unbothered.

(...Hm.)

I had been thinking her hair looked a little too neat for someone who "just" woke up. So she'd been having Shizune-san wake her up before I got there. Why would she do that...? Don't tell me... she's waking up early to study?

(...Hinako, I get it. I totally get it.)

During the tournament, I also woke up earlier than usual to prepare and review. I was so busy with the tournament that it was the only way to find time to study.

"Ngh... I-Itsuki is nodding emphatically...!? D-Did he... figure it out..."

"...It's fine, Ojou-sama. From his expression, he's probably just misunderstood."

Misunderstood...? I was curious what they meant, but seeing Hinako, it seemed like a secret. I won't press it.

"I'll be going now..."

"Yes. I will take care of Ojou-sama."

I handed Hinako over to Shizune-san and went back to my servant duties.

◆

—Noon.

At this time, I head to the dining room to have lunch with Hinako. Basically, after Hinako wakes up, my caretaker duties take priority over my servant work. However, after Hinako wakes at 10, she has a light meal and then reads in her room. That's her routine. I have nothing to do while she's doing that, so I work as a servant until lunch. In fact, I was just helping air out the futons.

"Ah..."

I brought a thin slice of scallop to Hinako's mouth.

"...Mmph, delicious."

While she chewed, I ate a scallop myself. There's a faint scent of ginger. It's exquisite. Today's lunch seems to be French, and every dish is plated with delicate care.

(...But how do I write this in the report?)

I thought back on my morning: cleaning, trash, laundry... Can I write that? It's not a lie, and I can gloss over the "servant" part. That just leaves waking Hinako up, and eating lunch together...

"Itsuki..."

"Yes, yes... open up."

I fed Hinako a piece of seared bonito.

(I feel bad for Hinako... but I'll just write that I fed my pet.)

I'll write that I have a hamster... I thought, watching Hinako chew happily.

"Ah, this is delicious."

"Mm... Thank the chef..."

I ate the same bonito. It was better than I imagined. It's paired with avocado and cheese. The rich flavors meld in your mouth. My standards are getting scarier by the day. Will my tongue ever find cup ramen delicious again...?

—1:00 PM.

After lunch, Hinako went back to reading. According to her, the morning reading is easy stuff. The "real" studying starts after lunch. This is also one of Kagen-san's orders, a step required to maintain her "perfect ojou-sama" dignity. All I can do is cheer her on. As for what I was doing—

"...Wait, you made that dish?"

"Yep. Good, right?"

I was in the kitchen, chatting with Yuri while we washed dishes. Of course, I was working while I talked. I've washed plenty of dishes in my time; I'm used to it.

"Your skill has improved..."

"I'm improving every day."

Yuri patted her bicep, looking proud. We had to wash dishes for about thirty people—mine and Hinako's, and the servants'. Yuri and I had to wash them all. The tricky part is that these are all name-brand, high-end dishes. Some have special materials, so we have to constantly change sponges and detergents. I was shocked when Yuri first told me, and even more shocked seeing her do it so skillfully.

"Lately, if we have extra time and ingredients, the chefs have a 'who can make it better' contest. It's good stimulation, really motivating."

"That sounds fun. What's your win ratio?"

"I mostly lose. But if the theme is commoner food, I usually win."

As expected of the Konohana chefs, they're on another level. It seems the chefs here sharpen their skills through competition. Shizune-san must know, so she probably allows it. It's a good system; you grow whether you win or lose. ...I wonder if this is how Narika grew, too? She's timid, but at home, she dedicates herself to martial arts every day. For Narika, matches and competition are normal. That must be why she's unbeatable in sports, to the point where even Hinako can't match her... and why, at critical moments, she can show such incredible courage.

(...Not good.)

I looked at the ceiling and exhaled slowly. Everything reminds me of Narika right now. I carefully dried the cutlery, trying to calm down.

"...Itsuki."

"Hm?"

"...Is something on your mind?"

I'm surrounded by perceptive people. Or am I just that easy to read?

"Yeah. A little."

There's no hiding it from Yuri. But this, of all things, isn't something I can easily discuss. What answer should I give Narika...? The surface of the dried spoon reflected my face like a mirror. I was frowning, my expression troubled. ...I don't want Hinako to see this face. Too late for Yuri. But whatever. It's not like I can hide anything from her at this point...

"I see... Well, I won't ask."

Yuri said, handing me a clean dish. I stared at her.

"What?"

"Nothing. I just thought you'd definitely press me..."

"Because you look like you don't want to be asked. You want to think it over yourself, right? I'll be here when you're stuck. I can wait."

I took the dish and dried it. Why is Yuri so good at reading me? Sometimes she forces her way in, and other times, like now, she knows when to back off. Was my face really that obvious?

"...Sorry."

"It's fine. I'm your big sister, aren't I?"

"I haven't heard that in a while."

"If you start getting useless, I'll say it for you."

Yuri said, laughing.

"Besides, I'm the one who should be sorry, always making you help with the dishes."

Yuri said, carefully washing the inside of a teacup.

"This is the least I can do. Do you know how much you've helped me?"

"Oh? So you feel indebted to me?"

"Of course. I don't think I can ever repay you."

"...I see."

Yuri went silent for a beat.

"Th-Then... you can just... help me for life."

Yuri said, her cheeks flushing. I put the glasses in the cabinet and came back to her side.

"...Even if you say something that heavy all of a sudden, I can't respond."

Just then, she kicked me in the shin.

"Ow!?"

"You're one to talk!"

I might have said something just as heavy to Yuri in the past... but come to think of it, she's the one who influenced me, right?

◆

After finishing the dishes. I walked down the hall, checking the shin Yuri kicked. I'd yelped, but unfortunately for Yuri, the pain faded instantly. An attack like that is useless against my trained-to-a-sweat body.

(Speaking of training...)

Come to think of it, I haven't had any self-defense lessons lately. I'd skipped some of Shizune-san's lessons when the tournament started, and my schedule has just stayed that way. Should I ask her to resume?

(...But, once the election starts, I'll be busy again.)

My schedule has gotten packed. When I first became a caretaker, just getting used to this place was all I could handle. But now I have my own goals. My free time has shrunk. Still, I want to move around sometimes. As I was thinking, I saw Shizune-san walking toward me.

"Oh, Itsuki-san. What are you doing?"

"I'm distributing the old flowers to anyone who wants them. We have extra. Would you like one?"

"Ah, cosmos... I see. May I have one?"

When the Konohana house has guests, they change the flowers... To avoid waste, the old flowers are given to the servants. Today, the entryway and guest room were changed to cyclamen, so the cosmos that were there are now extra. I saved a portion for Shizune-san, so I asked if she wanted them.

"Where should I take them?"

"To my room, please."

"Underst—... Huh?"

I was about to nod, but I stopped. Shizune-san's room...?

"Come to think of it, you've never been. I'll show you."

I followed Shizune-san as she led the way.

—2:00 PM.

I visited Shizune-san's private room for the first time.

"P-Pardon the intrusion."

I opened the door, holding the vase in one hand.

"Please don't be so nervous. It's just a servant's room."

"No, I think you're more than 'just' a servant..."

You're the head maid...

Shizune-san's room was a size larger than my own, but the difference wasn't as big as I'd imagined. But, as expected, even with a sudden visitor, the room was perfectly tidy. The decor was calm and mature, with the curtains, desk, and pillows all in unified earth tones.

"Where would you like the vase?"

"On the windowsill, by the desk."

I gently placed the vase of cosmos on the sill. As I did, her desk caught my eye.

"...Are you studying management, too?"

There was a management textbook on the desk. No... looking closer, it wasn't just management. There were books for all sorts of fields. Shizune-san was studying everything we learn at Kiou Academy.

"I study the same fields Ojou-sama does. I can't support her otherwise."

"...I see."

Come to think of it, Shizune-san was right by Hinako's side during the tournament, supporting her. When I asked for the shareholder registry, she responded immediately. She couldn't have done that if she didn't study management herself. ...Amazing. She really is a top-tier maid, handling her duties and keeping up with the Kiou Academy curriculum...

"This whiteboard is..."

She had a large whiteboard, the kind you see in meeting rooms. Words and diagrams were written on it.

"I write down important matters. Mostly instructions for the staff."

It concisely listed schedules for the kitchen team, reception team, cleaning team... and the caretakers. A simple org chart. As head maid, she has to grasp all of this.

"You have a break soon. Would you like a drink?"

Shizune-san said, looking at the board. Even my upcoming break was on the schedule.

"Well, since you're offering..."

"Please wait."

Shizune-san opened her fridge. By the way, all servant rooms in this mansion have a fridge. It's a long way to the kitchen; a situation unique to a mansion.

...What does Shizune-san usually drink?

Out of curiosity, I peeked into the fridge from behind her. It was full of glass jars, with labels for Darjeeling, Assam, and other teas.

"...Is this all tea?"

"There's coffee, too. The beans, the roast, the grind... If I don't master them all, I can't serve Ojou-sama."

Now that she mentioned it, I saw various coffee beans nearby. This is also for studying.

"With this much variety... can Hinako even tell the difference?"

"She can."

Shizune-san picked up a jar.

"It took me a long time to learn... but Ojou-sama was born with the ability to sense the subtle differences in tea and coffee."

"Really?"

"It's common in high society. They're born with delicate and sharp senses. Whether it's food or art, their ability to discern value is superb."

I see... But I get it. Not just Hinako, but Tennouji-san and Narika also have a good eye for value. They just have good taste.

"In that regard, Hirano-san's palate is shocking. Honestly, I thought it would be much longer before she was ready to cook..."

And now Yuri is making food Hinako can eat. In terms of taste, Yuri is on par with high society. Yesterday I heard Yuri's "I won't lose to you"... but haven't I already lost? I can't help but feel a little sad.

"We've both wandered into an incredible world, haven't we."

"...But, if I had to say, I think you're from another world, too Shizune-san."

"Not at all. Compared to the real thing, I'm just a fake."

I accepted the teacup. Shizune-san must have reheated it. I slowly sipped the aromatic Darjeeling. I never thought I'd be sharing my trouble with Shizune-san... When I first started, this was unimaginable.

"...Hm?"

Just then, I saw something strange. A white cloth-like object was sticking out from under the bed.

"What is it?"

"Nothing... I was just wondering what that is."

I stood up and grabbed the object. It's probably part of a piece of clothing. Must have fallen. It'll get wrinkled if I leave it. I tried to pull it out—

"...Ah!? W-Wait! That's—"

Shizune-san shouted in a high-pitched voice I'd never heard. But I had already pulled it out.

"..................Hm?"

It was a Gothic Lolita dress. A very girly, very lacy, Gothic Lolita dress.

(...Is this a type of maid uniform?)

My brain, about to crash, searched for a plausible explanation. But, looking closer, there was a lot of stuff hidden under the bed. I hesitantly pulled the rest out. A nurse uniform. A sailor uniform. And a magical girl outfit.

".........Haa... nnghhhhh..."

I rubbed my temples, exhaling, trying to cool my brain. I have seen what must not be seen. Why am I so curious at the worst times? I should have stopped at the Lolita dress. I was too scared to see the look on Shizune-san's face. But I couldn't just stay frozen. Slowly... slowly... I turned around. Shizune-san stared at me and said:

"...So what..."

"Huh?"

"I like cosplay. So what?"

She was mortified. This information was too heavy. My brain couldn't process it. Can I un-hear this?

"I told you my family runs an apparel company, right?"

"Y-Yes..."

"So I grew up surrounded by all kinds of clothes. My maid uniform... and the cosplay outfits under my bed."

Shizune-san paused, looking out the window. Then, she turned back to me.

"So it's natural I'd be interested in clothes, right?"

"N-No, you're right..."

If I dared to shake my head now, I'd be a dead man. I can feel the pressure.

"No, um... I'm surprised, but I don't think it's weird."

"..."

"I get it... G-Given your special environment, I understand having that kind of interest..."

"..."

Say something, anything. Shizune-san was bright red and silent. I didn't know what the landmines were, so I didn't dare speak. But if I didn't speak, we'd be here forever. I had to say something.

"...Ah, so, did you come to work at the Konohana house... because you were attracted by the maid uniform...?"

As I said it, I realized. That's impossible. I'd just been thinking it: Shizune-san is a top-tier maid. She must have gone through hell to get where she is. There's no way she did it for such a simple reason. But, hearing me, Shizune-san's eyes widened, and she froze. Does this silence mean 'yes'...?

"...Uh, um, please say something."

"..."

"R-Really? It wasn't for some more serious reason...?"

Shizune-san, who was usually expressionless, turned an even deeper shade of red. Was it really just for the uniform?

"...Huh? But didn't you say it was because your college classes were boring, and you respected Takuma-san...?"

During summer break, when we went shopping, she told me her past. I thought that was the story.

"...Yes. That was part of it."

Shizune-san's ears were red as she looked away.

"The maid uniform was ninety percent... The other reasons were about ten."

THAAAAAT'S HIGH. THE MAID UNIFORM PERCENTAGE IS SO HIIIIIGH! It was almost all the maid uniform! She came here just to wear it! Thinking back, when we went shopping, she was staring at the cute, girly clothes in the window. She said it was because of her family's business... but now I realize, she just wanted to wear them.

"Ngh... ugh..."

Just then, Shizune-san made a groaning sound. Looking closer, her eyes were welling up.

"Huh, eh!? Are you crying!?"

"So... humiliating... No one has ever found out...!"

"I-It's fine! I won't tell anyone!"

"I even hid it from my parents...!"

This was clearly a massive secret. Shizune-san has comforted me so many times... she's helped me with etiquette, studies... I never thought I'd be the one comforting her... After a while, she finally calmed down.

"...Sorry. I lost my composure."

"No, I'm the one who's... sorry."

Honestly, if she hadn't lost her composure, I'd be the one freaking out.

"Um, here... a tissue."

"...Thank you."

Shizune-san blew her nose loudly. Hnnngh—shuuuuu. So she's also a "Hnnngh—shuuuuu" person... I looked at her again. Shizune Tsurumi. Long, straight black hair, a refined air that could rival Hinako's Ojou-sama Mode...

...But, she's still a college student. She's not a full-fledged adult like Kagen-san or Takuma-san. Maybe Shizune-san is more normal than I thought.

(...No.)

Impossible. There's no way she's a "normal" girl. She's the head maid of the Konohana Group.

"...Um, I really don't mind."

I said to the post-nose-blowing Shizune-san.

"Everyone has a secret or two. I was surprised by the cosplay, but... to me, you're still a perfect, top-tier maid."

Finding this out now doesn't change the image I have of her. To me, she's still the goal I'm chasing, the senior I need to learn from, who supports Hinako from the side.

"So my attitude won't change... Please continue to guide me as strictly as ever."

I bowed deeply to convey my unchanged respect. In response, Shizune-san stared at me and said:

"...It's that part of you."

"What?"

"Nothing... You really are the picture of sincerity."

She said, with a faint smile. I couldn't tell if that was a compliment or an insult... but she's back to normal, so whatever.

"Watching Ojou-sama lately, I've been thinking... Maybe I should open up a little, too."

Does that mean sharing her hobby? It was an accident, but I'm honored she chose to share her secret with me...

"So, that's that. Itsuki-san, can I ask you a favor?"

"...If I'm worthy."

What? This was wrapping up so nicely... but this atmosphere doesn't feel right. Ignoring my feelings, Shizune-san continued, fidgeting shyly:

"The truth is, while cosplaying... I-I've also become interested in... p-photography... Um, could you help me...?"

...

...

.........Haa... nnghhhhh...

"..................I understand."

◆

"...Sorry to keep you waiting."

And just like that, the Shizune-san photo shoot was underway. I was holding the camera she'd given me. After I waited a moment, she emerged from the changing room. She wasn't wearing her usual maid uniform—instead, she was dressed in the habit of a church nun.

"Ngh, oh..."

"I-Is something wrong?"

I couldn't help my strange reaction, and Shizune-san tilted her head in confusion.

"Nothing... Um, it looks great on you..."

"...Th-Thank you."

She gave a clumsy 'thank you'. Maybe she'd never been complimented on her cosplay before. The outfit really did suit her. Shizune-san already has such a pure and refined air, so seeing her in a nun's habit looked so natural it barely even felt like cosplay. If I had to critique it, the skirt length seemed a little shorter than a regulation habit... but that's just how these costumes are, I suppose.

"As for the angle... could you shoot it like this?"

Shizune-san opened her laptop and showed me a reference picture.

"Got it... You've already done your research."

"...Yes."

She nodded shyly. Since she was asking for help, she had to be direct. Still, seeing Shizune-san this... compliant... was actually kind of cute.

However—

"...Um, please don't upload these online..."

"I won't. Of course not. This is just my personal hobby."

I knew it was impossible, but if Shizune-san did upload cosplay photos, she might get spotted. Someone might point and say, "Ah, it's that cosplayer!" and it could eventually harm the Konohana family's reputation. We are, after all, servants of the Konohana house. We have to enjoy our hobbies with that in mind.

"Alright, I'm taking the picture."

I used the reference photo and took a shot. I immediately showed her the result—

"No, that's wrong. Shoot from the lower right."

"Y-Yes, ma'am."

"Adjust the lighting... My face doesn't need to be that clear. Make the clothes stand out more."

"Understood..."

There she is. Head Maid Mode: activated. She may have a secret hobby, but Shizune-san is still Shizune-san. Listening to her professional-sounding directions, I started to take the photography seriously as well. Come to think of it, she wears a maid uniform every day. I'm so used to it that I forget, but to the rest of society, a maid uniform is a form of cosplay. Maybe that's why it wasn't so shocking to see her in these other outfits. And, of course, she wore them with such a natural air...

"Ah... Shizune-san, there's a wrinkle."

The wimple on her head was creased. It was in a place that was hard to explain, so I stepped forward to straighten the fabric. As I fixed it, my gaze lowered—and met hers.

"!"

Her features filled my vision... crap, I was too close. But while I was panicking, she just gave a gentle smile.

"...Thank you. It would be a pity for the clothes to be photographed like that."

Her words were filled with genuine, unadulterated sincerity. ...Right. She... really loves clothes... She'd said as much, but her passion was far deeper than I'd imagined. I was already trying to take it seriously, but knowing her feelings made me want to do an even better job. I raised the camera and took the photo.

"Did you get it?"

"Yes, here."

"...Very good. I'll go change into the next one."

Shizune-san returned wearing a nurse's uniform. It was pink, with a skirt. It leaned more "cute," and she seemed embarrassed to wear it in front of me, but I focused on the camera.

"Looks great. It really suits you."

"Thank you. Next..."

Maybe because we were both taking it so seriously, the shoot went quickly. Gothic Lolita, sailor uniform, magical girl, cheongsam... Shizune-san was blushing, but her desire to have the clothes photographed well was even stronger. I didn't want to let her down, so I put my all into every shot.



"Itsuki-san, how is this?"

"It's great. Shizune-san, you look good in everything."

"I-Is that so... Well, I'll go change."

Shizune-san, looking a little pleased, went to change again. In the meantime, I checked the photos I'd taken...

(...Huh? Aren't these... a little too racy?)

I hadn't noticed during the shoot, but looking at them now, it seemed... questionable. The magical girl's miniskirt, the high slit on the cheongsam... they were pretty revealing. You could see cleavage, the tops of her thighs...

(...Better not say anything now.)

The shoot was finally going smoothly. And more importantly, Shizune-san, despite her shyness, was clearly having fun. She'd never shared this hobby with anyone. This was the first time she'd ever gotten to really enjoy her cosplay. I couldn't be the one to ruin it.

"I'm changed. Please take the picture."

"Leave it to me, eh—"

The outfit Shizune-san emerged in was enough to shatter my resolve in an instant.

"This seems to be from an anime. The fabric is a bit thin..."

Since her interest is purely in the clothes, she's probably unaware of the source material. But that outfit... it was far beyond "a bit thin." Her chest and the tops of her thighs were exposed. The airy lace was striking and the design was cute, but it failed to cover the "important parts." The skirt was so short you could see... well, or maybe it was just meant to be a swimsuit? This was less "thin fabric" and more "barely any fabric."

"Uh, can I... take this picture?"

"Yes."

"Um, I think this one is a bit too revealing..."

"It's just us here. Don't worry about it."

But I'm the one who's worrying!

I didn't think I could convince her. In that case, it was better to just get it over with. I grabbed the camera and started shooting.

"Itsuki-san, don't rush. We have time. Please be thorough."

"Y-Yes, ma'am..."

But you're not in a state that allows for thoroughness! Also, my break was almost over, so we didn't have time... She'd completely forgotten the schedule.

(...My self-control, hold on.)

I'm fairly confident in my self-control. I mean, I bathe with Hinako every day. But seeing the normally iron-clad Shizune-san like this... it was testing my limits. But just then—another threat arrived. Knock, knock, knock.

"...Shizune, are you in there?"

It was Hinako.

◇

—2:30 PM.

Hinako put down her pen and stretched her stiff back.

"...Fuuu..."

Her study session, which had started this morning, was finally at a good stopping point. The schoolwork she'd let slide for the Management Tournament should be caught up soon. She'd carefully reviewed and prepared for the coming lessons, just in case.

(Alright... what's left on the to-do list?)

Hinako opened her laptop and checked her email, where she kept the messages from her father, Kagen. He always sent a curriculum list at the beginning of the month. Language and Culture, Logical Composition, Classical Lit., Geography, World History, Math, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Civics, Ethics, Political Science, Music, Art, Craft, Calligraphy, English, Home Ec, Information Science... even Agriculture, Industry, Commerce, Fisheries, Nursing, Welfare, and P.E. Her father always pinpointed the exact areas she needed to study. Hinako didn't like studying. She hated it. Honestly, she wanted to spend all this desk time sleeping. Even so, she didn't hate her father for forcing her. Analyzing all this couldn't be easy. Her father must have put a lot of thought into it. He was so busy, yet he took the time to make this for her. Thinking of that, Hinako couldn't just ignore it. And besides—

(...Heh. This is easy.)

Ever since Itsuki became her caretaker, Hinako's performance had been excellent. She was even exceeding her father's expectations. It was a mystery. The thing she needed to solve these difficult problems wasn't innate intelligence, stamina, or focus... it was the boy she liked. The heroines in her shoujo manga often said, "A girl in love is invincible." Hinako was beginning to understand what that meant. Some powers really do defy logic.

(...Where did I put that file?)

Hinako searched her desk, but couldn't find it. Come to think of it, she'd asked Shizune to organize her bookshelf. When she was pulling out the management books for Itsuki, she'd found a lot of materials she wouldn't need for a while and had Shizune store them. But she'd miscalculated. She still needed a few of them. Hinako left her room to find Shizune. In the hall, she saw a maid cleaning the carpet.

"Ah, Ojou-sama. Is something the matter?"

"Shizune... where is she?"

"I saw the Head Maid go into her room with Itsuki-san a little while ago."

Hinako's eyes widened.

"With Itsuki... into her room...?"

"Y-Yes... Uh, is something wrong?"

The maid had forgotten to add the crucial part—that it was to move the extra flowers.

"...Take me there."

"Y-Yes, ma'am."

Seeing Hinako's expression, the maid assumed it was an emergency. She nervously led Hinako to Shizune's quarters.

"Th-This is it."

"Mm... Thank you."

Hinako arrived at Shizune's door and knocked.

"...Shizune, are you in there?"

The moment she asked, she heard a flurry of crashing sounds from inside.

"Shizune-san! Please, hurry up and change...!"

"I-Itsuki-san! Now is not the time to be shouting...!"

That was Itsuki's voice. Hinako immediately tried the doorknob, but it was locked. Hinako had been to Shizune's room many times. She knew that as Head Maid, Shizune had many visitors and almost never locked her door during work hours. So, Shizune was definitely hiding something.

"...Shizune?"

"O-Ojou-sama, my apologies! I'm changing at the moment...!"

"But Itsuki is in there with you."

"..."

Shizune went silent. That silence... meant something.

"...Open the door." Hinako knocked. Knock, knock, knock.

"...Open the door." Knock, knock, knock.

"...Open the door." Knock, knock, knock.

"...Open the door." Knock, knock, knock.

"...Shizune? You... you haven't betrayed me, have you...?"

... Hinako then started banging on the door. BANG, BANG, BANG. The maid who led her there was pale-faced. BANG, BANG, BANG. The door began to rattle in its frame, but Hinako didn't care. A girl in love is invincible. A door like this? She could break down ten of them.

"O-Ojou-sama, apologies for the wait!"

Just as Hinako raised her fist to strike again, Shizune opened the door. Itsuki came out at the same time. They both looked anxious... and they were both covered in sweat.

"The truth is, um, my maid uniform ripped..."

"A-And I was helping Shizune-san sew it..."

"When I said I was changing, it was just the apron..."

"Shizune-san didn't change in front of me..."

They were saying something, but the words weren't reaching Hinako's ears. It was autumn, and cool, but they were both unnaturally sweaty. And Shizune's uniform... it was messy. Her uniform, which was always perfect, was open at the chest. They were sweaty. Shizune looked like she'd thrown her clothes on in a hurry. An image from the shoujo manga Yuri had lent her flashed in Hinako's mind. It was a different kind of manga than the others.

'Konohana-san, this one's a little... spicy, so maybe don't let Shizune-san see it.'

'Got it. I'll sneak it into my room.'

Yuri had said that, and Hinako had secretly read it. From that manga, Hinako had learned, for the first time, what "that" really was. She knew of it, but this was the first time she'd seen the specific order of events. Her brain had nearly crashed several times. She'd had to look away. But, she forced herself to finish it, to "prepare for the future." And so, no matter how she looked at it, the two of them looked like they had just finished... The locked door, the panic... it could only mean that—

"..................Faint."

Hinako's brain refused to process the information. Her vision went dark, and she passed out.

"H-Hinako's dead—!?"

"She's not dead! But let's get her to the infirmary, just in case!"

◆

—3:00 PM.

"Well, it seems there's nothing to worry about."

Shizune-san said, looking at Hinako sleeping on the infirmary bed. According to the doctor, she was in no danger and in perfect health. Shizune-san and I let out a sigh of relief. The cold sweat we'd been drenched in finally stopped. As her caretaker, I should probably stay here...

"...Nhee hee, Itsuki..."

Hinako was fast asleep.

(...She seems fine.)

She was talking in her sleep at first, but now she was sleeping as blissfully as ever. She was dreaming about something, and apparently, I was in it...

"Ojou-sama usually naps around this time, so she'll probably be out for a while... Let's return to our posts."

"Understood."

I knew Hinako took naps, so that seemed like the best plan.

"I'm sure you know... but please keep my hobby a secret."

"...I understand completely."

Shizune-san gave me a deadly serious look. I nodded emphatically. I have no interest in outing people's secrets.

"...Ah, right."

"Wh-What is it? Are there... conditions... for your silence?"

"No, not at all."

Shizune-san was immediately on guard. I quickly shook my head... For her, that hobby really was a terrifying weakness. I just remembered I had something to ask her.

"Shizune-san, could we resume my self-defense lessons? I know things might get busy, so I'm not sure if we can be consistent..."

"It will get busy during the election period."

Thankfully, she understood without me needing to explain. Becoming a consultant, becoming a student council officer... with those goals, self-defense wasn't my top priority. But it felt like a waste to let the body I'd trained get dull.

"Actually, I have a proposal."

Shizune-san said.

"Do you remember when you were fired? You thrashed this mansion's bodyguards."

"Thrash... I don't remember it being that one-sided, but... I guess I did."

That was when I forced my way into the mansion to see Hinako again. It's been half a year since then.

"I told you they were fired up and training harder, right? Well, they'd like to test their results."

"Test their results?"

What does that have to do with me?

"It seems they're looking for a rematch."

"...Huh?"

"Itsuki-san, would you be willing to spar with them?"

◆

—4:00 PM.

I stood in the Konohana family dojo, facing three bodyguards.

"HII-YAH! PLEASED TO BE HERE!"

"Y-Yes, please... take care of me..."

A fierce-looking man in a karate gi shouted his greeting. I just bowed stiffly. I'm the one who asked to resume training, but I didn't expect to be thrown into a real match this fast. My opponents were the three men I'd beaten six months ago: two guards and one from internal security. Come to think of it, I'd beaten the guards, broken in, and then thrown or kicked a bunch of servants, too. Looking back, I was... completely desperate. It shows how badly I wanted to see Hinako, but maybe I should have looked for another way.

"Itsuki-bro. You remember me?"

One of the bodyguards said.

"Uh, you're one of the gate guards."

"Yep."

"...Huh? But I haven't seen you around much."

After half a year, I know the staff's general positions. He was a gate guard, but I rarely saw him. I should have, since I go to school with Hinako every day. The bodyguard heard my question and answered:

"That's 'cause I've been training in the mountains."

...He what?

"I've been training. In the mountains."

I really shouldn't have asked.

"...I'm... sorry."

"It's not your fault. Thanks to you, I saw my own weakness... Now, you'll taste the fruits of the six months of mountain training I begged the Head Maid for."

I glanced at Shizune-san, who had her hand on her forehead. She'd apparently approved it, but looked like she regretted it.

"That said, I heard from the Head Maid you haven't been training. Are you sure you're okay to fight? We want to redeem ourselves, but..."

"I... sparred with Shizune-san for an hour. I've got the feel for it..."

I'd had her run me through the basics as a warm-up. The moves came back to me, and my body felt surprisingly light—

"...I think I'll be fine."

When I said that, the two other bodyguards' eyes widened, and then they grinned.

"Heh... That's the spirit. So it wasn't just a fluke."

"You look humble, but you're full of fight. That's how you got us last time."

I feel like there's a huge misunderstanding here. When I said "I'll be fine," I meant, "I'll be fine in terms of not getting seriously injured," not "You guys are no problem." I wish they'd stop treating me like I'm some kind of master.

"Are you both ready?"

I stood at the center of the dojo, facing Bodyguard A. Shizune-san was the referee. The rules were simple. No lethal blows, since we have to work together. You win by submission or by scoring a point based on Judo or Karate rules. Shizune-san seems to know every martial art, so she'd set it up. Seeing our stances, Shizune-san swung her hand down—

"First match—Begin!"

Bodyguard A lunged, as if to preempt me. I quickly fell back to create distance, but he'd anticipated it, closing the gap in one large step.

(Crap—!)

I was trying to reset my stance, but he closed the distance faster than I expected. I had just stepped back and was off-balance. The guard used the opening to send me flying with a palm strike. He was on me the instant I hit the ground, immediately transitioning to grappling. I tried to push him off, but I couldn't escape.

"I... I give..."

"Stop!"

I tapped his back, and Shizune-san called the match.

"WE WON! I WOOOOOON!"

"UOOOOH! WE'RE REDEEMED!"

The bodyguards threw their arms around each other, celebrating. Well, he's a pro. If he's serious, I don't stand a chance. But... I don't know... Seeing them celebrate that much...

(Fuuuuu....)

I quietly exhaled, cooling my brain.

"...So Itsuki-san makes that face, too."

Shizune-san muttered something, but I couldn't hear. I just stared at the celebrating bodyguards.

"Itsuki-san, do you need a break?"

"...No. Let's go."

I lost so fast, I'm not even tired. And while I tried to cool my head, I didn't want this fire in my chest to go out.

"Alright! My turn!"

Fired up by the first win, Bodyguard B, another gate guard, stepped up. I stood opposite him, adjusting my breath.

"Second match—Begin!"

Shizune-san swung her hand. At the same time, Bodyguard B closed in. He must have decided a preemptive strike was the way to win.

(—Don't underestimate me.)

I parried his outstretched hand. He jabbed with his right, then his left, but I deflected or dodged both. His style was probably Judo, trying to grab my gi rather than strike. Elbow, belt, collar... If he was going for a Judo grip, his targets were limited. As long as I could predict his target and time it, I could block anything.

"You bastard!"

Clearly frustrated, he thrust his arm toward me. This is what I was waiting for—I grabbed his fully extended, defenseless arm. I'm also trained in Judo, but I'd deliberately been parrying to make him drop his guard. I grabbed his arm and, with one sharp motion, twisted it outwards, against the joint.

"Gah-!?"

As Bodyguard B lost his balance, I hooked his leg and threw him with an Osoto-gari. His back hit the mat with a loud thwack.

"Stop!"

Shizune-san called the match. Bodyguard B just lay there, completely dejected.

"H-How... I lost...!?"

"His counters are invisible, and his feints... He handled them all. How can someone so young be beyond our skill...!?"

The other two were in shock. I knew the feints were coming, but... it's hard to explain. If I watch their expression, I can just... read their intent. It feels like something I've done recently... Ah, right. In the Management Tournament. It's the same feeling as seeing the real person's intent hidden behind the data.

"Itsuki-san, do you need a break?"

"...Yes, please. Just a minute."

That one took some energy. I wiped the sweat from my forehead and took a deep breath.

"Honestly, that was close. I won the mental battle, but I'm not sure about the next one..."

"...You know, the fact that you can beat a professional bodyguard at all is what's weird."

Shizune-san said, exasperated. Bodyguard B, crushed by defeat, was dragged to the corner by the others. Well, I guess a pro losing to a student is depressing. Then again, a pro challenging a student is pretty weird to begin with... Huh? Aren't they the childish ones?

"Alright, beginning the final match."

Break time over. I stood at the center. Bodyguard C stepped forward.

"I'm from internal security."

He bowed politely.

"Itsuki-san, you probably don't remember me... but my back still hurts from where you kicked it."

He grinned. I stared right back at him.

"...No, I remember. You were the one who tackled me."

When I broke in, he was the one who came at me with a full-speed tackle. I dodged and kicked him in the back, but if I'd been a second slower, I would have lost. If he had tackled me... I never would have made it to Hinako.

"...So we both remember."

"...Heh. So we do."

We smirked at each other.

"Third match—Begin!"

Shizune-san's hand dropped, and we both moved. He came at me with a sharp thrust, but I turned to evade. Palm strikes, spinning kicks, a knife-hand that turned into a hook... He was throwing everything at me, mixing Karate and boxing. Given his tackle last time, he was probably holding something back. If it was a grab or a throw, I'd be in trouble, so I kept my distance.

(...But he probably wants me to think that.)

He wants me to stay back, so he can attack from a safe distance. He's probably confident in his stamina, waiting for me to lose my balance. I feinted, as if to create more distance—and then dashed in.

"!?"

His eyes widened. He instantly brought his right knee up. Good defense. My palm strike was blocked by his leg. The distance was broken again.

"Hehehe..."

Bodyguard C laughed.

"Let me crush your hope. When I spar with the Head Maid, my win rate is 50%."

A pro only has a 50% win rate? Just who is Shizune-san...? Still, that's impressive. I know from experience how good she is. But Shizune-san, the referee, spoke up.

"Itsuki-san is stronger than I am."

"...What?"

"Even in our warm-up spar just now, his win rate against me was 60%."

No, I just got a lucky streak... But, I have been winning more than when I first started. I've gotten better at the mental game. My pure skill is still leagues behind hers, but our matches are about 50/50 now.

"He... hehehe..."

Bodyguard C laughed.

"S-So what... I-I won't lose..."

Cold sweat was beading on his forehead. He started the trash talk, but got hit with a counter he never expected. His will was fading. You really shouldn't start things you can't finish... He charged at me. He was probably half-desperate, which made him sloppy, but also dangerous. I couldn't block his front-kick cleanly. I stumbled back, off-balance.

"There—!"

He shot in for a tackle. It's a difficult move. If you do it recklessly, you'll eat a knee. But he saw I was off-balance and judged he could close the distance. However—

(I was baiting you—!)

My "off-balance" was a feint. The moment he aimed for my torso, I dropped my weight on top of him. In the next second, I rolled backward, using his own momentum to throw him over my head.

"Gah!?"

His back slammed into the dojo mat. It's a Judo sacrifice throw called Tawara Gaeshi.

"Stop!"

The throw was clean. Shizune-san called the match. We were supposed to bow, but Bodyguard C didn't have the energy. He was just staring at the ceiling, broken.

"Ha... haha... Impossible... I trained so hard..."

"Does this mean... we have to go back to the mountains!?"

The other two losers clenched their fists.

(Two wins, one loss...)

I was expecting to be totally defeated. This was a good result. No, this is better than a good result. Why did I just win two matches against professional bodyguards...?

"...Itsuki-san."

Shizune-san looked at me with a complicated expression.

"Honestly... you're better suited to being a bodyguard than a consultant."

"..."

"You certainly have talent for consulting... but for bodyguard work, you have the talent to be the best in the world."

"...Please don't say that."

You'll make me waver...

◆

—7:00 PM.

After my matches with the bodyguards, I quietly finished my servant duties. Before I knew it, it was time for dinner. Hinako, who had fainted earlier, was completely recovered. We headed to the dining room together. The moment she took her seat, the first course was served.

"Aaa..."

I fed a bite of carpaccio to Hinako, who was seated next to me. Tonight's dinner seemed to be Italian. The main course wasn't out yet; it would probably arrive after we finished the appetizers.

"Is it good?"

"Mm... delicious."

As her caretaker, when I'm with Hinako, I don't eat in the staff hall but in the main Konohana dining room. I should be eating servant's food, but when I'm with her, I get to eat the same high-class meals she does. When I first realized this privilege, I felt guilty, but not anymore. After all, I can learn table manners this way. Unlike the other servants, I have to go to Kiou Academy and social events, where I'll be seen. Considering these meals are practice for that, I can't say I'm the only one benefiting. Though... all that etiquette goes out the window when I'm feeding her. I need to at least mind my own manners. I adjusted the cutlery.

"...By the way, Itsuki."

"What is it?"

"Do you know... what happened to me this afternoon?"

Hearing this, the fork I was holding slipped and clattered onto the table.

"I think I went to Shizune's room... but my memory after that is all fuzzy."

"I-Is that so? I have no idea why that would be~..."

"Mmm... I just feel like something happened..."

"I-It's just your imagination, right? You usually nap around that time. You were probably just dreaming."

Hinako had conveniently forgotten I was in Shizune-san's room, but her memory wasn't gone. She was tilting her head, confused. I cannot let her remember—

"H-Hinako, look! The next course is here! Open up!"

"Mm..."

A hearty minestrone soup had arrived. I gently lifted a spoonful to her mouth. She smiled, so it must have been good. I switched spoons and started on my own soup. An Italian course usually has two main dishes—pasta first, then meat or fish. But even for the Konohana family, a full course every night is a bit much, so they usually skip one. As I was enjoying the soup, the pasta was served. Looks like we're skipping the meat course tonight.

"You two are as close as ever."

A voice suddenly spoke from behind us. I turned around, nearly spitting out my soup.

"Ah... Father."

"Kagen-san—!?"

I hadn't seen him in a long time. I'd been busy with the tournament, and I heard he was staying at the main estate for work. We hadn't had a chance to meet.

"Shizune, I'll eat here tonight as well."

"As you wish. I will prepare it at once."

Shizune-san, who had been standing by, immediately headed for the kitchen. Kagen-san sat down directly across from me.

"Itsuki-kun, what's wrong? Just eat with my daughter as you always do. Be natural."

I had frozen mid-bite. Kagen-san smiled, but his eyes weren't smiling at all.

"Itsuki... I want that one next..."

Hinako pointed to the pasta. Oh, Hinako... please... For the sake of my heart, just eat it yourself this time...!!

◆

I somehow made it through the rest of that incredibly tense dinner. Hinako, beside me, was starting to nod off.

"Hinako, sleepy?"

"Mmm..."

She'd been looking drowsy while I was feeding her tiramisu, and now she seemed to be at her limit. I'm finished too. I'll just carry her back... I thought.

"Shizune, take Hinako to her room."

"I understand."

Shizune-san nodded at Kagen-san's order. As she was about to lead her away, Hinako looked back at me.

"Itsuki too..."

"I need to speak with him."

At Kagen-san's words, Hinako made a small "Mph..." sound of protest, but she let Shizune-san lead her down the hall.

...What does he want to talk about? Shizune-san was gone, too. It was just me and Kagen-san in the dining room. He had started later, so he was still on his main course. The only sound was the faint clink of his cutlery. Watching him across the table, his manners were... elegant. Hinako and Tennouji-san are perfect, but Kagen-san has a gravity that comes from experience. He was relaxed, this wasn't a formal event, but his movements were still flawless. It was just ingrained in him.

"Thinking back, you've always had that look in your eyes."

Kagen-san said, looking at me.

"A look of simple respect, of wanting to learn from what you see... I can understand why you learn so quickly. Your etiquette has improved."

"...Thank you, sir."

Is... that a compliment? In this heavy atmosphere, I had no idea how to react. He doesn't praise me often.

"You have experience now. You don't seem nervous."

Kagen-san said, eating his pasta.

"...No, I'm very nervous."

I was just hiding it. At my honest answer, he blinked, then smiled faintly.

"...You're not like Takuma."

What does that mean? Although, if it were Takuma-san across from me... he would have seen my tension in an instant. Kagen-san finished his pasta, and the tiramisu was served. As the maid cleared the dishes, he spoke.

"I'm glad I didn't fire you."

He said this, digging into the tiramisu.

"Although... I'm not sure if I can say that so easily."

He put the spoon in his mouth.

"Since you've been here, Hinako shows expressions I've never seen. As her father, I should be happy... But as the head of the Konohana Group, her recent state frankly makes me uneasy."

He said it so flatly. He doesn't look uneasy at all...

"...Has she changed for the worse, in your eyes?"

"It's not that simple, and that's the problem. She's far more immature than I thought, but her recent growth has also been far beyond my expectations... She's even completing the monthly assignments I give her with ease, though she pretends it's a struggle so I don't give her more."

So Hinako's been doing that...

"But, in my position, I can't just be happy. If she becomes uncontrollable, I may not be able to raise her into someone worthy of the Konohana Group... If I only wanted her to be manageable, it was easier before you came."

He didn't seem to be asking for an apology... so I didn't give one. It was fine. He was just wavering. He was seeing Hinako change and didn't know what to feel—excitement, happiness, anxiety? He didn't know the "correct" answer. Kagen-san was voicing a simple, very human worry. And I was probably the cause... which is why he was telling me.

"...I don't know what hardships you've been through."

So I can't tell him how he should feel.

"But I don't think it's too late for you to change."

Kagen-san once said... that he put the family before his daughter, that he was just another "gear" in the Konohana machine. However—

"It's not too late... for you to stop being a "gear" and start being a father."

Kagen-san's eyes widened.

"...You've gotten bold, meddling like this."

"I've just learned that some problems can't be solved unless you do."

This half-year has been more intense than my entire life before it. I won't forget the people I've met, the problems they faced, and the answers they found. Kagen-san was just another person with a problem. When I first got here, it would have been arrogant to even think of prying... but now, maybe I can help, even a little. I've always felt it.

—Kagen-san is carrying too much. I've met other adults in his position... Tennouji-san's parents, Narika's. But Kagen-san... he seems to have no breathing room. There must be... some internal issue... within the Konohana family.

"If there's anything I can do..."

"—It's too soon."

Kagen-san's words were sharp.

"This isn't the Management Tournament. You're not ready to get involved with the Konohana family."

He was clearly drawing a line. Come to think of it, I've gotten close to Hinako, but not to Kagen-san. And Takuma-san is still a mystery. And... this is the annex. The real business happens at the main estate. I've lived here for six months... but I probably know nothing about this family.

"...Join the Kiou Academy student council. Then, I'll think about it."

Kagen-san said after a moment. My eyes widened. The Kagen-san from six months ago would never have said that. He's been watching me. And he's acknowledged my change.

"...I understand."

I nodded, my resolve hardening. I had a new goal. Join the student council, and get closer to the heart of the Konohana family. This conversation gave me a premonition.

If I stay as I am... one day, I won't be able to support Hinako.

"Pardon the interruption."

Shizune-san, having returned, re-entered the room.

"Master Kagen, Ojou-sama wishes to go out tomorrow."

"Out? Why?"

"She just received an invitation from Mirei Tennouji for a study group. As Itsuki-san was indebted to her during the tournament, Ojou-sama would like to accept as a way of thanks..."

She must mean when Tennouji-san helped me relax.

"Host it here."

Kagen-san said.

"Hinako visited their home, didn't she? We can return the favor."

"Understood."

Shizune-san bowed deeply as Kagen-san sipped his coffee.

◆

And so, Sunday came— Tennouji-san arrived at the Konohana mansion.

"Tennouji-sama, we have been awaiting you."

"Hello!"

Shizune-san gave a deep bow. Tennouji-san puffed her chest out, beaming.

"I, this humble lady—have arrived!"

She was even more cheerful than usual. Even her golden drill-curls seemed to sparkle. Today's study group was just the three of us: Tennouji-san, Hinako, and me. The main topic was a review of the Management Tournament. Tennouji-san probably wanted to discuss it with Hinako, who ran a similarly-sized company, so she suggested it. I was just tagging along.

"Tennouji-san, welcome."

"Hehehe... Hinako Konohana! Let's make this a meaningful day!"

They met at the entryway. Then Tennouji-san looked past Hinako to me.

"...So you two really do live together."

I just gave a wry smile. I'd already explained my situation, but seeing me here, acting so naturally... it seemed to be hitting her all over again.

"This way, Tennouji ojou-sama."

"Lead on!"

The three of us followed Shizune-san through the mansion. Tennouji-san's head was on a swivel.

"S-So this is the Konohana home... Everything is top-class..."

I wondered what she was looking at. It seemed to be the art and porcelain. I mean, her house is incredible too...

"...This is just the annex, by the way."

"The annex!?"

I whispered the addendum, and Tennouji-san looked stunned. A mansion of this scale... it really is something else. It's a pointless thought, but... why build annex this big? It's one of the Konohana mysteries. I'll have to ask Kagen-san about that someday.

"Where are you taking me?"

"To one of the guest rooms. We've prepared an environment conducive to focus."

Shizune-san explained. Tennouji-san thought for a moment.

"Can't we use Hinako Konohana's room?"

"...My apologies, but Ojou-sama's room is currently under renovation."

"Renovation?"

Tennouji-san asked, confused. Honestly, it's just because her room is a minefield. We can't let her see the chip bags.

"Well then, what about Tomonari-kun's room?"

That was an unexpected suggestion. Shizune-san glanced at me, asking for my decision.

"I don't mind, but since you're here, we should use one of the nicer..."

"Oh, please. I'm tired of studying in 'nice' rooms. Since we're here, a change of scenery would be good."

Hearing that, my room seemed like the only option. I met Shizune-san's eyes. She nodded.

"My room it is, then."

My room wasn't set up for guests, but it has a three-person table, and it's clean, so it should be fine.

"Well then, I shall fetch some refreshments."

Shizune-san bowed at the fork in the hall. Just then, Hinako spoke up.

"Shizune, I'll help."

"Ojou-sama...?"

"Tennouji-san is always so kind to me. I'd like to make her tea."

Hinako said with a gentle smile.

"H-Hinako Konohana...!"

Tennouji-san put a hand to her chest, looking deeply moved. Her eyes were watering. Getting tea from Hinako must have really meant a lot to her. Making tea is becoming a hobby for Hinako... It's just a guess, but for someone who is so used to being served, she might find serving others to be surprisingly fun. She made tea for me, too, as a thank you. This must be one of the "changes" Kagen-san was talking about. Hinako and Shizune-san headed for the kitchen, leaving me to guide Tennouji-san. That was fine, it was just my room.

"This is my room."

I opened the door and let Tennouji-san in first. She glanced around.

"This is definitely nicer than the room I saw during summer break."

"Well, it's still part of the Konohana mansion, even if it's a servant's room."

It has everything, and it's worlds apart from my old apartment. The floors, the walls, the soft bed... it's heaven.

"Itsuki-kun."

Ah, the code. Right, we're alone now. I can drop the formal speech.

"What's up?"

"Hehe, I just wanted to see... I was wondering what I'd do if you forgot."

I wouldn't forget... When we're alone, we drop the honorifics. It's an important agreement, one that shows our natural distance.

"It's been a while since we've talked like this, just the two of us."

"Has it? We went out during the tournament..."

"That was half a month ago."

It's been that long? The tournament was such a grind, time flew by.

"Half a month... and now we're alone. In your room."

Tennouji-san's cheeks colored slightly.

"...Alone... in Itsuki-kun's room..."

Please don't mutter things like that. You're making me conscious of it, too.

"...Hm?"

Tennouji-san looked at the floor, confused.

"...Two pairs of slippers?"

A cold sweat broke out all over my body. She was looking at the two pairs by the entrance. It's gotten colder, so we've been wearing them... but one pair is very clearly a cute, feminine style. Those are Hinako's. Tennouji-san's gaze then drifted to the bed...

"A woman's blanket...?"

Also Hinako's. This is bad. I have to deflect. I saw the un-filed documents on my desk and seized on a topic.

"A-Anyway! How far are you on the self-interview report!?"

It was a forced subject change, but Tennouji-san opened her bag.

"I'm pretty much done. Look."

She must have wanted to talk about this, because she'd brought it. I looked at the report.

—7:00 AM, Awake!!

—Drink my morning tea!!

(...Even her homework is flashy.)

The writing was forceful, from a thick-nibbed pen. Her handwriting was so good it was almost overwhelming. After tea, she took a walk in the garden, writing that it was for "beauty and health." Come to think of it, Hinako does zero exercise but stays thin. It's a mystery...

"What do you think!? My elegant day!"

"Uh... It's very... energetic."

"Right, right!"

I was more focused on the font than the content. Her financial statements during the tournament were the same—loud, like a supermarket flyer.

"...Is all your homework like this?"

"Yes! I make it stand out!"

Seriously? No, wait, this is her brand. I should have known from her hair. As I was thinking this, Tennouji-san huffed.

"I know what you're not-saying. But I think it's a good way to get noticed."

"I think you're pretty eye-catching without trying."

I said it honestly, and she suddenly went silent. Her cheeks were faintly red.

"I-Is that... so?"

"Yeah."

I nodded. She was quiet for another moment...

"Am I..."

She looked at me.

"Am I... eye-catching... to you?"

She asked, a little nervous. But the answer was obvious.

"Of course."

She puffed her cheeks, annoyed.

"Mph!"

"Wh-What?"

"That wasn't a question you're supposed to answer so easily!"

...It wasn't? To me, it was an immediate 'yes'.

"Have you finished your report?"

"Not yet. I'm planning to write it tonight."

I said, pulling out the blank forms. I could have done it last night, but I wanted a clear head.

"Miyakojima-san is probably writing hers right now, too."

Tennouji-san whispered.

"You're worried about her, after all."

"Of course. We're rivals for the student council presidency."

Tennouji-san had always seen Hinako as her rival. But in this election, her opponent was Narika. Hinako wasn't running. Tennouji-san... was not taking this lightly. I could see the tension and anxiety in her face. She saw Narika as an equal to Hinako. And she was right. Narika had made a huge splash in the tournament. She was always noticeable, but usually for her looks or athletics. The tournament completely flipped that image. The shock it sent through the student body was greater than Hinako's or Tennouji-san's. Everyone now knew: Narika Miyakojima has a talent for business.

"Itsuki-kun."

Tennouji-san looked at me, her expression serious.

"Whose side are you on—"

"—Pardon the intrusion."

Shizune-san opened the door.

"Itsuki-san, Ojou-sama is looking for the tea leaves..."

"The tea? It should be in the back of the cabinet..."

I pretended to think, keeping my voice calm. ...Honestly, thank god Shizune-san showed up. I don't think I could have answered that question.

"...It's in a tricky spot. I'll go."

I remembered where it was. I'd discussed it with the other maids; we stored the rarely-used tea in the back. That must be what Hinako wants. It's hard to explain.

"Tennouji-san, excuse me for a moment."

"Of course. Take your time."

Shizune-san was here, so I reverted to my formal speech. Tennouji-san just smiled gently.

◇

After Itsuki and the maid left, Mirei let out a soft breath.

(I wanted him to say he was on my side... but not saying it is also what makes him who he is.)

He must have known what she was asking. She'd hoped, for a second, that he'd say her name. But she was also terrified he'd say the name of the other candidate... Narika Miyakojima.

But, thinking about it, Itsuki isn't the kind of person to give a rash answer. He's the type to genuinely agonize over things he should agonize over. He's not quick-witted, not exceptionally knowledgeable, and not a genius. His family background is, frankly, below average. He has no charisma, and he's not even that handsome.

But... he is unfailingly sincere. And he will work himself to the bone to see his goals through. That was the part of him Mirei liked.

(...Like.)

I like him. She couldn't lie about that. Putting it into words just made it feel more real. It was the source of so many of her new worries, but in those moments, she just thought of him. I want to be sincere, just like him.

(Alright...)

Mirei looked around the room. She was alone. No one was watching. And so, Mirei—with her whole body—expressed her true feelings.

(My plan to get into Itsuki-kun's room... was a success!!)

She pumped her fist. The truth was, ever since the study group was set, she'd been planning this. All that casual chat was part of the act. If he'd said no, she would have backed off, but luckily, he agreed.

('If you want to understand the one you love, you must see their private space'... That's what the book said!!)

It was written in her favorite book, 'The Monkey's Guide to Love.'

But she was on a time limit. Mirei immediately began her inspection.

(So this is where Itsuki-kun studies...)

First, the desk. Textbooks, notebooks. Sticky notes with to-do lists. One said "Review Management Tournament." He's even reviewing an event that's over. He works so hard.

(Not a speck of dust. It's so clean.)

Mirei ran a finger along the desk. Nothing. The tables, the chairs, the floor... everything was spotless. He was tidy.

(...Does he study like this?)

Mirei sat in his chair, seeing the view he saw.

(And when he's tired... he rests like this...)

She stood up and sat on the carpet. There was a soft cushion. She leaned against it. There was a low table, maybe he read here. This is how he spends his days? It's so... strange... Her eyes darted around, and then she saw the bed.

(...A-And at night... he lies down... like this...)

She unconsciously sat on the bed. She pulled back the covers and slipped inside. She pulled the comforter up, getting into a perfect sleeping position. How does he sleep here... She took a light breath. The scent was... not her own.

(Itsuki-kun’s scent... wait, this is Hinako Konohana's scent.)

Her fantasy shattered. Mirei thought, No way, and buried her face in the covers to check. ...There's no mistake. This is Hinako's scent.

(That's weird...)

Are they using the same detergent...? No, you use different detergent for clothes and linens. It's weird... Mirei had danced with Itsuki many times. You're close when you dance. You smell the other person. Mirei knew. This is not Itsuki's scent.

(...He brushed it off, but the slippers and the blanket... it's too weird.)

What is he hiding? As Mirei was deep in thought—

"—Pardon the intrusion."

The door opened. Shizune had entered. To be precise, she had knocked, but Mirei was too busy to hear. And she forgot. She forgot where she was—

"Tennouji-sama, for your snack, would you prefer scones or muffins—"

Shizune froze. Mirei was lying flat on her back in Itsuki's bed. Tucked in from her toes to her chest... Cold sweat poured down Mirei's back.

"Th-The Tennouji Group! Is currently developing a new line of bedding!"

"Yes."

"And it is my mission as a Tennouji to test the performance of the bed Tomonari-kun uses!"

"I see."

"Wh-Which is to say, I absolutely had no improper thoughts...!"

"Of course."

"..."

"..."

"..."

"..."

................

"...Please don't tell anyone."

"I understand."

Mirei chose the muffins.

◆

The study group went smoothly. With tea and snacks prepared, Hinako, Tennouji-san, and I opened our laptops in my room and discussed the tournament. We mostly focused on "what we should have done," and then debated if those strategies would even work in the real world.

"Hinako Konohana, your methods are precise, but won't you have trouble with employee motivation?"

"Not if you share the company vision. Here's an actual survey from the Konohana Group..."

"You're going to share the vision with every employee? The time and cost would be enormous. It's better to enact simple, clear reforms, like I did..."

"But with lifetime employment fading, drastic reforms are behind the times. We're running stable corporations, not startups..."

They were using real-world data in their debate.

"What do you think, Tomonari-kun?"

They turned to me. I thought for a moment.

"It might require HR reform. I'm studying personnel consulting, and I've seen similar cases..."

The book was right on my desk, so I grabbed it. Good thing we're in my room. And so, the study group remained serious until the very end—

"—Oh, my ride is here."

It was time for Tennouji-san to go. We walked her to the gate, where her car was waiting. I met the driver's eyes and nodded. He was a sharp man in a black suit. Even the Tennouji driver is cool.

"Ahem."

Tennouji-san cleared her throat.

"Um... I had a lot of fun today! So, uh... you can invite me again."

"Of course. I will."

Hinako smiled, and Tennouji-san beamed.

"W-Well then! I'm off!"

She got into the car. Her steps seemed... lighter than usual. We watched her leave, then went back inside.

Hinako and I walked back to my room. As if it were the most natural thing in the world, she followed me inside.

"We really studied hard."

"Mm... I'm tired."

Hinako looked exhausted, but also... fulfilled. She slipped on her slippers, which were in my room, and wrapped herself in her blanket. This was normal for us, but I'd have to hide them if we had guests again.

"Alright... time to write this report."

I sat at my desk and looked at the forms. Hinako, wrapped in the blanket, shuffled over.

"Is that the student council report?"

"Yeah. I'm going to knock out both days."

I knew what I wanted to write. The pen moved quickly. I recalled yesterday's schedule and the reasons for my actions. I had to hide that I lived here, so "cleaning the mansion" became "cleaning my room." "Taking care of Hinako" became "taking care of my pet." The spar with the bodyguards became "jogging and muscle training." The core actions were the same, so if the goal was to show my character, it should be fine... though the Hinako part is a bit of a stretch. Hinako, at some point, had climbed into my bed and was sleeping soundly. Time passed, just the sound of my pen.

"...Done."

I finished and stretched. It took about an hour. I looked over. Hinako was still fast asleep. She didn't get her nap today because of the study group, so she must be exhausted.

(...Ah, Shizune-san asked me to organize the kitchen pantry.)

When I was looking for the tea, she'd asked me to do it "if I had time." I have time now.

(I'll just... let Hinako sleep.)

It's not dinner yet. I'll wake her when it's time. I quietly opened the door and left.

◇

Hinako felt the door move and slowly opened her eyes.

"...Itsuki?"

He was gone. Did he have something to do? She was going to go back to sleep, but she was awake now. She looked at the clock. It was almost dinner. She climbed out of bed and glanced at the desk. The student council report was lying there.

"...Mmph."

Since he was done, she decided to read it. It listed his schedule for yesterday and today...

(...This is so him.)

Hinako couldn't help but smile. His personality was in every line. Cleaned my room, but I don't know how to maintain some items. Still much to learn. Reviewed my lessons, but I feel my memorization scores are slipping. My study methods can be improved. He's never satisfied with the status quo. The report clearly conveyed his desire to be better.

But, in reality, Itsuki is already working so hard. The proof was in how the other servants talked about him.

Just yesterday... the gardener was talking to a butler. 'Today's flowers were beautiful. The guest was very moved.' 'Young Itsuki came to get them this morning. I can't do sloppy work in front of him. He looks at a simple gardener like me with such respect... I feel like I have to live up to that.'

The maids, too. 'Itsuki-san has already memorized all the tableware brands.' 'And the vase brands, too. He's so eager to learn. We have to follow his example.'

And the bodyguards. 'We're the ones who protect Ojou-sama, not him!!' 'That's right!... Ugh, dammit...!!' 'Don't cry! We just have to train harder so we don't lose again!!'

Ever since Itsuki came, the whole mansion felt brighter. He probably didn't even notice... but Hinako, Shizune, and all the servants who had been here for years, they saw it clearly. Everyone was grateful to him.

"...Just a little."

Hinako picked up the pen and added something to the report. Just a little bit. It'll be fine. Itsuki always underestimates himself. If the student council read his self-evaluation and took it at face value, that would be a problem.

"...There."

Hinako put the pen down. Just then, the door opened, and Itsuki came in.

"Oh, Hinako, you're awake."

"I just woke up."

"Good timing. It's almost time for dinner."

"Mm... I'm going."

Hinako left the room with Itsuki. In the past, Itsuki was just a caretaker she could be lazy around. But now... she liked him. And Itsuki's back... it looked broader and more reliable than anyone else's.

<<PREV | TOC | NEXT>>