Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 11 Chapter 3

 

The Perfect Young Lady

In the morning, having finished my simple duties as a servant as usual, I headed to Hinako's room.

Lately, the water used for cleaning has gotten colder. The Konohana estate looks pristine whenever you look at it, but the current me knows that there is steady, continuous cleaning going on behind the scenes. It seems specialized knowledge is required for cleaning carpets and ornaments, which I cannot do right now. I thought there must surely be other people doing difficult jobs I don't know about, and I am unconsciously receiving the benefits of their labor.

Are the members of the Konohana family, who receive these benefits the most, oblivious to them? Not necessarily. Rather, it's the opposite. It's precisely because Kagen-san and Hinako acutely sense the presence of those supporting them from the ground up that they can strive to live each day with spirit.

Hinako, despite everything she says, works harder than the average person.

If so, it wouldn't be strange if she had some worries. ...Having reached that conclusion before going to sleep yesterday, I knocked on her door.

"Hinako, I'm coming in."

I didn't expect a reply at all, but I called out just in case.

Now then, let's start today by waking Hinako up. Just as I was thinking that――.

"Yes."

Hearing Hinako's reply from behind the door, I was surprised.

No way, is she actually awake?

That Hinako?

(............Hm? Did she just say 'yes'?)

In that split second, a traffic jam of questions formed in my head.

Did I hear that wrong? Maybe she was half-asleep. Thinking that, I opened the door.

"Good morning, Tomonari-kun."

The amber princess stood with the morning sunlight at her back.

The curtains were open. The bedsheets were neat. Her nightgown had no wrinkles, and her long hair was properly combed. There wasn't a single trace of drool around her mouth, and she was wearing her room shoes properly on her feet.

"It is a refreshing morning today as well, isn't it."

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

Am I dreaming right now?

All the work I was about to do is already completely finished.

No... that's not the issue.

What is the meaning of this?

Why is the perfect young lady Hinako here?

"Tomonari-kun, is something the matter?"

"Ah, no..."

Suddenly getting nervous, I choked on my words.

"Hehe."

Seeing me confused, Hinako smiled beautifully.

"You are quite interesting today, Tomonari-kun."

Her exquisitely crafted, doll-like face smiled as softly as a flower.

Even though I should be used to seeing it, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by that face.

(Sh... She's so cute............)

She's always cute, but...

No, what am I thinking?

I instantly threw that wicked emotion, unfitting for a caretaker, into the trash bin of my mind. ...That was close. The sheer magnitude of the situation had shaken me so much that my reason almost blew away.

"By the way, Tomonari-kun..."

To me, who was desperately trying to calm his heart, Hinako said while fidgeting.

"Um... I would like to change clothes soon, so..."

"P-Please excuse me!!"

I ran out of the room.

After closing the door, I pinched my cheek. ...It hurts. It's not a dream. I suspected the scene just now was a dream enough that I ended up having such a cliché reaction.

"Itsuki-san, what is the matter?"

As I was doubting whether there was still a slight possibility it was a dream, Shizune-san passed by and called out to me.

"S-Shizune-san...!! Hinako turned into the young lady...!!"

"I believe the young lady was a young lady to begin with."

"That's not it!!"

Unable to explain it properly, I pointed at the room's door. Shizune-san tilted her head slightly and then knocked on the door.

"Young lady, excuse me."

Since she might be changing, it'd be bad, so I took a few steps away from the door.

From the open door, I could hear their exchange.

"Oh, Shizune, good morning. Would you help me change?"

"................................................Eh."

Shizune-san was almost as surprised as I was.

"You... ah, changing.................. yes, I will... help."

"Hehe, you are interesting today as well, Shizune."

Hinako's elegant smile floated in my mind's eye.

The room's door closed, and Hinako changed from her nightgown into her school uniform.

After waiting a few minutes, the door opened again, and Hinako and Shizune-san came out.

"You waited for me, Tomonari-kun. Well then, shall we head to the dining hall together?"

Unable to reply with an "Ah" or a "Yes," I walked silently next to Hinako.

Shizune-san secretly whispered in my ear.

"Itsuki-san, what is the meaning of this?"

"I don't know. I really don't know."

Shizune-san was unusually flustered, but I was also confused to the limit, so I didn't have the leeway to worry about it. Unable to even feign composure, we walked down the hallway with our mouths hanging wide open.

On our way to the dining hall, we passed a maid carrying empty glasses.

The maid gave a deep bow and greeted us as usual.

"Good morning, young lady."

"Yes, good morning."

Crash!!

The maid dropped a glass and broke it.

After making sure the maid was okay, Hinako started walking toward the dining hall again.

Next, we passed a maid carrying a vase.

"Good morning, young lady."

"Yes, good morning."

Smash!!

The maid dropped the vase and broke it.

This is bad. The damage is spreading more and more.

Even though they had made blunders right in front of Hinako of all people, all of the maids were staring fixedly at Hinako with eyes so wide with shock they forgot to apologize. Shizune-san, who should normally be in a position to reprimand them, was also silent, perhaps because the shock still hadn't worn off.

Crash!! Smash!! Clatter!! Thud!!

The estate is lively this morning, isn't it.

Hahaha............ I wonder what the total amount of damage is. If I sleep and wake up again, won't everything return to normal?

Walking with a blank mind, we arrived at the dining hall before I knew it.

There was someone already seated across the table.

"Good morning, it's rare for us to see each other at this hour."

Eating his breakfast, Kagen-san glanced at us.

Before Shizune-san or I could return the greeting, Hinako opened her mouth.

"Good morning, Father."

"................................................"

Kagen-san, who was about to eat his salad, stopped moving completely. Becoming as rigid as a stone statue, Kagen-san eventually turned toward Hinako slowly, with a movement that looked like it would make old, creaking noises.

"Kagen-sama, um, please calm down."

"...I am fine. I am not flustered. Even so, I am someone who carries the lives of 800,000 Konohana Group employees. If I were shaken by this level of a matter, it would set a bad example for my subordinates."

Speaking as if convincing himself, Kagen-san returned to his usual expression just as he declared.

But... Kagen-san...

Your fork...!!

Your fork is shaking so much, the salad is flying everywhere...!!

The tablecloth is completely soaked only around Kagen-san.

"...Shizune, explain what is happening concisely."

"According to Itsuki-san, she has been in this state since she woke up this morning. The cause is unknown, but at the very least, she was normal last night."

Kagen-san's gaze shifted to me. He apparently wanted me to explain as well.

Perfect timing. There was a speculation I wanted him to hear.

"I don't know if this is the cause, but... for the past few days, Hinako seemed to be worrying about acting. Perhaps, triggered by acting for the play, it affected her usual acting as well, and she became strange."

"Became strange..."

Kagen-san repeated my words.

Anyone can see she's strange. The problem is the details. What state is the current Hinako in? I tried predicting it in my own way.

"............Like, she can't return from acting as the perfect young lady?"

Hearing my prediction, Kagen-san thought for a moment.

"...If that is the case, she can attend the academy."

It's true that as long as the perfect young lady state continues, there will be no issues with appearances.

However, I was surprised by that judgment. Kagen-san is someone who taps the stone bridge before crossing. I didn't think he would let the current unpredictable Hinako stand in front of people.

"There isn't much time left until the actual cultural festival. My honest desire is for her to participate in the play practice without missing a day."

"But with Hinako's skills, even if she takes a day off..."

"Team activities can go to either heaven or hell depending on the leader's behavior. Hinako's absence would undoubtedly be a negative influence."

He isn't just worried about Hinako, he's also worried about us students of Class A.

Just as Kagen-san said, pulling Hinako out of the current Class A would inevitably result in a drop in morale. Even though everyone doesn't show it much, they must be at least somewhat nervous about performing a play that is drawing attention as the centerpiece of the cultural festival. There must be many problems being prevented simply because Hinako is there.

"Itsuki-kun. As her caretaker, can you support the current Hinako at the academy as well?"

Kagen-san's eyes stared at me.

"...I'll try."

"I am counting on you."

And so, I ended up heading to the academy with Hinako, the perfect young lady.

◆

Even after getting in the car, Hinako's state did not change. Right after we started moving, Hinako said something like, "I'm looking forward to your driving," to the chauffeur, almost causing an accident.

Hinako was gazing at the passing scenery with a sweet smile, as if saying she couldn't wait for school. While I silently watched her profile, Shizune-san, who was sitting in the passenger seat up front, beckoned me over, and I brought my face closer.

Shizune-san spoke to me in a low voice so Hinako couldn't hear.

"Once she enters the academy, our surveillance will not reach her. Please report to me thoroughly."

"Understood. I will proceed with caution, just like my first day as her caretaker."

"That level is probably appropriate. While the two of you are at the academy, I will investigate the young lady's symptoms on my end."

It seems we've both regained some composure.

"You two have been keeping a lot of secrets today, haven't you."

Hinako suddenly said such a thing.

Hinako looked at me and Shizune-san, puffing out her cheeks cutely.

"I will not pry, but... it is lonely being left out."

"Ugh."

"Guh."

Shizune-san and I groaned simultaneously.

My heart aches. ...Is this the perfect young lady?

While being a talented girl skilled in both literary and military arts who everyone respects, she also possesses a pure innocence like freshly fallen, untainted snow. The closer you got to that clean, pure aura, the more it felt like the wicked parts inside you were being purified.

The car stopped a short distance away from the academy.

First, it was my turn to get out.

"Itsuki-san, please keep a constant eye on the young lady's condition."

"Yes."

The car left me behind and headed for the academy.

As usual, the plan was to walk a little and meet up with Hinako near the academy's front gate. However, feeling a strange premonition, I walked to the meeting spot faster than usual.

(It might just be groundless fears, like Kagen-san thinks, but...)

In reality, there would be absolutely no problem if Hinako stayed in this state. The only problem would be that we, who know Hinako's true self, would be intensely shaken; but there would be virtually zero external issues. Everyone at the academy wouldn't notice Hinako's change.

In fact, the current Hinako might be perfect in the truest sense of the word.

If it's the current Hinako, there's no risk of her lazy true nature coming out unexpectedly.

The current Hinako is genuinely, truly perfect.

To the Konohana family...

"Konohana-san."

Spotting Hinako just past the school gate, I called out to her.

"Good mor――"

"――Good morning, Hinako Konohana!!"

Before I could approach Hinako's side, someone else appeared in front of her.

Our student council president, and the blessed child of blonde ringlets... Tennouji-san.

"It seems you were chosen for the lead role in the play again this year. It is frustrating, but I believed you would surely be chosen, being my rival and all!! I will also do my best to hype up the cultural festival as the student council president, so please shine to your heart's content as well!!"

Tennouji-san encouraged Hinako.

What a good person. With only a few days left until the cultural festival, and knowing she might be exhausted both physically and mentally, this person came to cheer Hinako on precisely now.

At Kiou Academy's cultural festival, the position of the lead role in a play rivals even the student council president in terms of the momentary weight of responsibility. Tennouji-san, who is currently experiencing that heavy responsibility of being student council president, must have wanted to push Hinako forward because of it. As a rival in friendly competition.

If it were the perfect young lady, she would surely notice Tennouji-san's kindness as well.

However, Hinako was blinking her eyes blearily.

"Ugh... morning, Tennouji-san is so bright it hurts my eyes..."

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

Tennouji-san's eyes widened.

I was probably frozen with the exact same face.

What was that line just now...?

Did Hinako say that...?

"I'm sleepy... I wanna go home already..."

"Uooohhhhhhhoooohhhh!?"

I reflexively shouted to cover it up. ...I don't know if it actually worked.

(I-I was wrong...!!)

I thought Hinako was stuck acting and couldn't return to normal.

But that's not it.

The perfect young lady and her true self switched places!!

Looking at the still-frozen Tennouji-san, I spun my brain faster than ever before.

What do I do? What do I do? What do I do? ――How do I cover this up!?

Since becoming her caretaker, the greatest crisis was right here.

"...K-Konohana-san is practicing her acting right now!!"

Aware of my twitching face, I explained.

"She's going to play a lazy personality in this year's play. Because the approach is different from last year, she's dedicating her time during the day to play practice too... it seems."

I panicked and said something random, but it made minimum sense.

Please, fall for it...!!

"What an admirable actor's spirit...!! Well done!!"

Thank goodness Tennouji-san is a simple person...!!

Having successfully covered it up, a breath of relief I couldn't hide escaped my lips.

"T-Then, we'll be heading to the classroom!"

When I looked at Hinako, she was still rubbing her eyes sleepily. To prevent any more slip-ups, I grabbed Hinako's hand and quickly distanced ourselves from Tennouji-san.

However, instead of heading straight to the classroom, we hid in the bushes at the back of the garden and contacted Shizune-san.

"Shizune-san! It's terrible! Hinako is slacking off!"

"That is normal... wait, no it is not, not for today."

I shared what had just happened with Shizune-san.

After thinking for a while, Shizune-san gave instructions.

"Kagen-sama is in a business meeting, and it doesn't seem like I can contact him right away. ...If you are covering it up well, please continue to standby by the young lady's side."

"...Is it okay to stay at the academy like this?"

"As much as possible."

Shizune-san must also understand that this is a tightrope situation.

I ended the call. ...I also want to answer Kagen-san's trust as much as possible.

It's very scary, but let's see how things go a bit longer.

"...Which way was the classroom again?"

Entering the school building, Hinako said while looking around restlessly.

The real Hinako is lazy above all else; even things she could do if she put her mind to it, she won't try to do, nor will she try to think about it. When the time comes that she really has to do it, she reluctantly finds the motivation, but it's obvious just by looking at her that now is not that time for Hinako.

In short, the real Hinako finds everything to be a pain and wants to be pampered.

"It's this way."

"Nn..."

I pulled Hinako's hand and moved to the classroom.

Our interaction was exactly like when we're at the estate, but I must never forget... we are at the academy. I can't call Hinako "Hinako" like I do at the estate.

(The stares hurt...!!)

Countless gazes were piercing my entire body.

That perfect, unattainable flower, Hinako, was being led by the hand by a male student. It might even look like we were holding hands. I wanted to explain the situation right away, but if I explained it every time I felt a stare, there'd be no end to it. I have to explain it to my classmates anyway, so I'll just hope it spreads on its own as a rumor after that.

"Nehehe... Itsuki's hand is warm..."

Hinako floated an innocent, carefree smile like a child.

Contrary to the tense situation, my heart was growing calm. To me, this Hinako is a comfortable companion I can show my true self to.

Feeling as if I were spending time at the estate, my shoulders relaxed, but I gritted my teeth and brought back the tension.

◆

"――And so, that's the situation."

Arriving at the classroom, I quickly explained the situation before it could invite any unnecessary misunderstandings.

"I see, play practice, huh..."

Amidst the gathered classmates, Taisho muttered.

"...If I hadn't heard that, I would've fainted."

Together with Taisho, the classmates looked behind them.

Hinako was dozing off at her desk.

That Hinako, who always sat with a straight back and looked only forward with a dignified expression, was now resting her chin on her desk and dozing.

The young lady who was a model student everyone at Kiou Academy looked up to had, in just a single night, become a lazy person who calmly did what everyone at Kiou Academy refrained from doing. Seeing the classmates dumbfounded by the change, I couldn't help but suspect that showing Hinako in this state to everyone had the opposite effect.

"Um, Konohana-san. I'm sorry to interrupt your acting practice, but there is something I just don't understand from class, could you please teach me...?"

A female student spoke to Hinako. The words asking to be taught were probably genuine, but she looked more like she spoke up to gauge Hinako's reaction.

Hinako, the most talented girl at the academy, often tutors students.

That's the usual sight, but today...

"No... I'm sleepy."

Glancing at the female student, Hinako said that and immediately lowered her head.

A stir ran through the classroom.

"A-Amazing... I can't believe it's acting...!!"

"Konohana-san is serious this year...!!"

Thank goodness, everyone in the class is simple too...

(...No, it's not that they're simple.)

The reason the current Hinako is accepted is because of the accumulation of everything up until now. Because she has shown a well-behaved, noble figure, there's no way anyone would doubt that her current figure is her true self. Everyone is convinced that she wouldn't become like this unless she were acting.

The current Hinako is supported by the savings account named 'trust' she has earned so far.

But since it's a savings account, it will eventually run out.

If this state continues forever, everyone will eventually start doubting. ...Could this actually be her true self?

(She has to turn back to normal before then...)

Looking at Hinako, who had fallen sound asleep before I knew it, I broke out in a cold sweat.

"I get that she's practicing for the play, but..."

Asahi-san said while looking at Hinako's curled-up back.

"What is she going to do during class?"

That... is a good question.

The question that no one could answer was soon made clear.

◆

First period, Japanese class.

Fukushima-sensei, who was also the homeroom teacher for Class A, was teaching as usual at first, but after a few minutes, she noticed something strange.

"U-Um, Konohana-san...?"

Fukushima-sensei paused her lesson and called out to Hinako.

Ever since class started, Hinako had been slumped over her desk.

To be precise, she was like this even before class started...

"Well, I know this is highly unlikely, but... you aren't sleeping... are you? For The Konohana-san to sleep during class... that's impossible, right...?"

Checking again and again, Fukushima-sensei approached Hinako's desk.

However, without even acknowledging Fukushima-sensei's approach,

"...Zzz."

I felt like I heard a sound resembling soft breathing in sleep.

Fukushima-sensei rubbed her eyes vigorously with both hands. She rubbed them, looked at Hinako, rubbed them again, looked at Hinako again, but no matter how many times she checked, the scene before her eyes didn't change...

"............Excuse me. It seems there is something wrong with my eyes, so I will be leaving early for the day."

Fukushima-sensei walked out of the classroom.

The students murmured among themselves. Even so, Hinako remained fast asleep without waking up.

T-This is bad...

My stomach ached at Hinako causing a disturbance this early in the day.

For now, I should explain the situation to Fukushima-sensei. I'd feel too sorry for her if I just left her like that.

Leaving the classroom, I hurriedly chased after Fukushima-sensei.

"Fukushima-sensei!"

"Tomonari-kun, could we talk about this some other time? I am heading to the ophthalmologist right now."

"No, actually, the thing is..."

I explained the situation to the deeply depressed Fukushima-sensei.

"I-I see, so that was it............"

Hearing that Hinako was practicing her acting, Fukushima-sensei wiped her spilled tears with her finger.

"Thank goodness... it's not that my class wasn't worth listening to or anything..."

This is bad.

Hinako's image is so good that no one ever reaches the conclusion that Hinako is the one at fault.

When an ultimate honor student suddenly adopts an insincere attitude, does the other person automatically assume the responsibility lies with them...? I felt like I was watching some kind of psychology experiment.

Having somehow recovered, Fukushima-sensei resumed the class for us.

...After that, in all three classes until lunch break, I repeated the exact same thing.

◆

When lunch break arrived, Hinako, still sitting at her desk, took her bento box out of her bag with sluggish movements. Usually, we gather on the roof of the old student council building and eat just the two of us, but it seems we aren't doing that today. Considering that the current Hinako is the Hinako from the estate, it's a natural progression since she probably doesn't want to move a single step if possible.

"I didn't know Konohana-san brought a bento..."

"I totally thought she always had her chef cater..."

She should be carrying her bento box around normally.

I wonder how a rumor like that even started. ...Maybe they imagined a style where she just brings the container and has her chef put the food in it?

I thought this during my interaction with Fukushima-sensei too, but because Hinako's image is too good, people tend to imagine noble and unnatural scenarios rather than down-to-earth and natural ones. They just can't picture Hinako as a mundane human being.

Is this, too, the power of ultimate acting...?

As I was thinking that, Hinako came over to my desk holding her bento box.

"Itsuki... feed me, like always... here ahh..."

"Whoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoawhoa!?"

I panicked so much I tried to cover it up in a weird way.

Stares were piercing my entire body like spears. Taisho's eyes were accusing me, Are you a traitor? Asahi-san was making an incredibly sad face for some reason. Kita's eyes were wide with shock. Suminoe-san was glaring at me, Are you a traitor? Why???????

"I-I wonder if there's a scene like that in Hamlet!? Hahaha, hahahaha...!!"

I laughed and tried to brush it off half-heartedly, but cold sweat was thoroughly soaking my forehead.

Was there a scene like that? A few classmates began re-reading the script. Please! Let there be one! Even something vaguely similar is fine!

(Shizune-san...!! Save me, Shizune-san...!!)

I can't hold out much longer...!!

My heart is going to...!!

◆

"That must have been awful."

After school. Upon getting into the Konohana family's car, Shizune-san offered words of sympathy before anything else. The words themselves were simple, but compassion was etched on her face. It seems she truly understands my mental exhaustion this time around.

"Were you able to cover it up safely?"

"Barely. ...But I don't think it'll last long."

Answering Shizune-san's question, I glanced at Hinako sitting next to me.

"Is something the matter, Tomonari-kun?"

Before I knew it, Hinako had returned to being the perfect young lady.

I took the day off from student council work today and met up with Hinako early. The student council work was piling up, but right now I wanted to prioritize Hinako. It'd be great if we could somehow investigate the cause...

"I consulted a doctor, and it is certain to be psychological. To begin with, the young lady's mental state easily manifests physically, so..."

Shizune-san whispered in my ear. During that time, Shizune-san and I observed Hinako's condition. Hinako, who usually sleeps in the car, was sitting with her back perfectly straight. Just like when she takes classes at the academy.

"How is the play?"

Shizune-san asked.

Right now, we have two issues. Covering it up so no one notices Hinako's anomaly, and leading the play to success. We can't afford to fail either of them.

However, regarding the play――.

"There are absolutely no problems."

I recalled the play practice held in the classroom after school.

Hinako participated in the practice as usual. When playing Ophelia, she seemed to be able to act properly as the perfect young lady.

And, Ophelia's other form... her performance of the lazy personality was even more polished than before. Thanks to that, the classmates were also convinced, thinking, "Her daytime practice is really paying off!" Given that, we should be able to keep Hinako's anomaly hidden for the time being.

"The sets for the play are also nearing completion. It seems the classmates in charge of stage direction went to observe a Shakespearean theater in London, and they plan to recreate the authentic atmosphere."

An absurd scale, as usual. A few classmates apparently went to inspect the Globe Theatre, where Shakespeare's plays were once performed. Among the guests coming to Kiou Academy's cultural festival, there might be some familiar with the authentic atmosphere. They want to impress them.

Even though Hinako's acting was already evaluated as perfect, it became even more refined. I strongly felt the classmates' enthusiasm to ride that momentum today. It's just hindsight, but it might have actually been worth forcing Hinako to attend school despite the unreasonableness.

(...The fact that she can act as Ophelia normally means that, to Hinako, acting in the play is a separate thing, right...?)

Originally, Hinako had two states. The perfect young lady, and her lazy state.

I thought her Ophelia acting might also get swapped and become a mess, but that anxiety proved to be a groundless fear.

Which means, what Hinako was worrying about wasn't acting in the play. Acting in the play was merely the catalyst, and she must have been wavering between the 'perfect' and 'lazy' she has performed up until now.

She's undoubtedly worrying about her acting, but she recognizes acting in the play as a separate entity.

"We have arrived."

Hinako, who had been gazing outside through the window glass, said.

The car stopped. It seems we've arrived at the estate.

The chauffeur opened the door, and we got out of the car one by one.

Heading toward the mansion, a gardener tending the garden noticed Hinako and gave a beautiful bow.

"Welcome back, young lady."

"Yes, I have just returned."

Hinako returned a breathtakingly beautiful smile.

Kagen-san probably explained the situation to the servants. There were no blunders like breaking vases as there were this morning, but even so, the gardener stared in grand astonishment with his mouth hanging open, and,

"............Beautiful."

With just a single word, he condensed all his emotions and spat them out.

I know... I know that feeling so well...

Even though I supposedly see her all the time, I sense an exceptional beauty from the current Hinako. It's packed with a charm entirely different from her usual cuteness.

Passing through the entrance and entering the mansion, my eyes met Shizune-san's.

What do we do now? As we were thinking while exchanging glances, Hinako looked at us.

"May I come to your room now, Tomonari-kun?"

"Eh!?"

I was reflexively surprised.

"N-No, right now is a bit..."

"Why is that? Do we not do so usually?"

That's true, but!!

I feel an intense resistance to letting this Hinako into my room.

Will my heart hold out...!?

My soul is being whittled away in a different sense than when we're at the academy...!!

(...Wait a minute?)

A brilliant idea popped into my head, and my mind cooled down.

By daring to spend time as usual, is it possible Hinako will return to normal? I let her sleep in my room until dinner, we eat dinner lazily, we take a bath together... While doing that, won't her original lazy personality return?

There's hope.

"...Then, let's go to my room."

"Yes."

Hinako floated a smile like a sunflower.

...It's hope, alright, but it's a hope as dazzling as the sun. If I take it easy, I'll get burned.

I headed to my room together with Hinako. ...It seems I don't need to hold her hand this time. The current Hinako is the perfect young lady, so it's impossible for her to get lost.

Arriving at my room, I immediately headed for my desk.

"T-Then I'm going to study, so please relax on the bed, Hinako."

"? On the bed?"

Hinako tilted her head curiously as she sat primly on the edge of my bed.

...I wonder why.

When the current Hinako sits on my bed, it makes my heart pound...

Thinking about it objectively, a girl my age came into a guy's room, so isn't it only natural for my heart to pound? I'm not this conscious of it when it's the sluggish Hinako, but when it's the current Hinako, I can't escape that natural agony.

Let's just focus on studying. Thinking that, I furiously wrote formulas in my notebook.

Just as my head was starting to cool down moderately, silky amber hair entered the corner of my vision.

Right next to me, Hinako was peering into my notebook.

"Hinako!?"

"My apologies, did I interrupt you?"

I silently shook my head no.

My pulse is fast. My heart is... my heart is going to burst...!!

"Ah, this formula is slightly incorrect."

"Eh?"

"The correct way is... like this."

Taking my mechanical pencil, Hinako wrote letters in my notebook with flowing strokes.

It was supposed to be a pretty difficult problem, but she apparently noticed the mistake at a single glance. The intellect she normally displays at the academy is alive and well.

"...Thank you."

"You are very welcome."

After setting down the mechanical pencil, Hinako stared straight into my face.

"You always work so hard, Tomonari-kun. ...I think that aspect of you is cool."

"...!"

My pulse grew even faster.

My head became unable to think of anything but Hinako. Amidst my blank thoughts, I felt like I could immerse myself in happiness just by staring intently at this girl's face.

(Calm down, me...!!)

There's an emotion that feels like it's going to explode near my heart. I was desperately holding it back.

My pride as a caretaker. The masculine desire to not be so easily swayed. ...More than anything, the sloppy smile shown by the real Hinako flashing through my mind.

If I harbor those kinds of feelings for the current Hinako, isn't that a betrayal to the real Hinako?

I couldn't say I completely lacked that feeling.

As I desperately clutched my chest, there was a knock on the door.

From the open door, Shizune-san entered.

"Dinner is ready."

Is it that time already?

Closing my notebook, I headed to the dining hall with Hinako.

Honestly, it was a lifesaver that Shizune-san came. Being alone with Hinako right now is bad.

"You're here, you two."

When we arrived at the dining hall, Kagen-san was already seated.

I thought it was a coincidence, but Kagen-san hadn't started eating yet. He was apparently waiting to eat together with us.

The reason is, of course, because he wants to observe Hinako's condition.

I sat near Kagen-san together with Hinako. Then, the waiting servants sprang into action, and dishes were served one after another.

Dinner began.

It seems to be Italian today. While eating the classic appetizer, Caprese, I looked at Hinako.

As a matter of course, Hinako's manners were perfect. I've been shedding my awkwardness lately too, but even so, watching Hinako and Kagen-san's movements feels like looking at something above the clouds.

First-class etiquette is as magnificent as a musician playing an instrument. The silver cutlery held in their left and right hands drew beautiful trails of light. The faintly audible sound of tableware brushing against each other evoked the timbre of a violin. Watching their movements, the knife, fork, glass, and even the food on the plate looked radiant. First-class cuisine was being perfected even further by first-class etiquette.

"Hinako, how is the play practice?"

Taking a light sip of wine, Kagen-san asked.

"It is going smoothly. I am sure Grandfather will be satisfied as well."

"I see, but do not let your guard down. For the Head, who rarely leaves the main estate, to insist he must see it this time... consider that not even a one-in-a-million chance of failure is permitted."

Kagen-san's eyes looking at Hinako became faintly sharp.

If it were the usual Hinako, she would have spat out complaints with a sluggish face. After that, she would have probably vented a little in my room or gone to bed sulking.

However, the current Hinako――.

"I will be fine."

With a dignified tone, Hinako answered.

"Even I am a daughter of the Konohana family, after all."

"..."

Kagen-san's eyes widened.

Right there, stood a brilliantly shining future fitting of someone carrying the Konohana Group.

◆

After dinner ended, I resumed studying in my room.

Hinako wasn't there. Usually, we spend time together after dinner until we go to sleep, but that wasn't the case for Hinako today.

(I've finished my assignments, but there are some things I want to study independently... huh)

Those were words the usual Hinako would absolutely never say.

I thought this once again, but Hinako, having become the perfect young lady, is incredibly powerful. Because her movements are calm and elegant, it's hard to get that impression, but the sheer volume of her actions is staggering. She is constantly doing something without taking a breather. Even at the academy until now, she must have been called on by someone every break period and dealt with it.

Putting down my mechanical pencil, I took a breath. Thanks to Hinako teaching me, I was able to finish today's quota early.

I recalled Kagen-san's expression during dinner.

Within Hinako, there was undeniably a caliber fitting to succeed the Konohana Group. I wonder what Kagen-san thought upon seeing that.

(...For Kagen-san, the current Hinako might be his ideal.)

It might not just be Kagen-san who thinks that.

Just how many servants were mesmerized by Hinako today alone? ...Wouldn't it be fine if she just stayed like this? There must have been more than a few who harbored such feelings.

Hinako, capable of maintaining the perfect young lady persona from beginning to end with no hidden side.

There are surely several people who view that as the ideal.

(...Is it just my ego that thinks it's not good to leave things like this?)

When I finish studying... when I finish what I have to do, I end up thinking about all sorts of things.

Just then, there was a knock on the door.

The one who appeared from behind the door was Shizune-san. ...She's visiting my room quite often today. Given Hinako's condition, it's certain that neither of us is in our usual state of mind.

"Itsuki-san, the young lady is calling for you."

"? I'll go right now."

Hinako is currently studying in her room, but did she have any business calling for me?

Feeling puzzled, I headed to Hinako's room.

When I knocked on the door and opened it, Hinako was standing up from her chair. The study tools placed on her desk were put away. It seems she had just finished studying.

"Hinako, did you need something?"

"Yes. I thought it was about time we went in."

Went in? ...Into what?

As I tilted my head, Hinako giggled, saying, "Oh you."

"The bath, of course. Don't we always go in together?"

She casually blurted out something outrageous as if it were perfectly normal.

It's true that I thought we should just spend our time as usual, but...

We're going in...!?

In the bath together with... the current Hinako!?

Is it okay if I go in...!?

◆

"...Phew."

Steam drifted right in front of my eyes.

Lowering my leg, there was a splash of water. The familiar scent of roses. Hinako and I sat on the edge of the bathtub, which was vast yet without a single speck of limescale.

"It's relaxing, isn't it."

"...Yeah, it is."

We ended up getting in……………………………….!!

Guilt is welling up endlessly!!

What do I do... I can't turn to look at Hinako.

In the corner of my vision, I caught sight of the white swimsuit Hinako was wearing, and I reflexively averted my eyes. Something I've seen countless times now feels like something I shouldn't be looking at.

...This is bad!!

I can't take this!!

"I-Is the water temperature okay!? Isn't it a bit hot!?"

"...Now that you mention it, it does feel a little hot."

"I-I'll go adjust it!!"

My heart was hotter than the water. I felt like I was going to lose my mind if I stayed like this, so I forcefully distanced myself from Hinako.

I lowered the water temperature once at the panel near the changing room. ...In reality, it was the exact same temperature as always. There was no need to lower it.

There was no way my head would cool down in such a short amount of time, and walking as slowly as a cow, I returned to Hinako's side. Hinako's back was so delicate it made me want to protect her. A single lock of damp amber hair hung over her shoulder. Dripping water droplets trailed down her beautiful skin.

Opening up just a little more distance than before, I sat next to Hinako.

Feeling curious, Hinako leaned her body toward me.

I reflexively backed away from Hinako a little.

Hinako leaned in again.

I tried to back away from Hinako again, but――.

"Tomonari-kun."

Hinako stared at me intently.

"Why won't you come closer to me today...?"

"――!"

With a face like a lonely child watching a parent leave, Hinako gazed at me.

I had no intention of making Hinako sad. It's just that, when dealing with the current Hinako making that kind of face, I was truly doing my absolute best just to maintain my sanity.

(Calm down... I thought this during the Management Tournament too, didn't I...!! I have to accept this Hinako as well...!!)

I thought that back then when I saw Hinako earnestly managing a company.

Hinako has two sides, and if I want to support her as her caretaker, I have to be close to both of them. I want to understand both Hinakos, and I want to be trusted by both Hinakos.

"Would you wash my hair for me, like you always do?"

"....................................Yes."

I was so shaken that polite speech came out on its own.

I'm long past the stage where telling myself to 'calm down' would actually calm me down.

Eradicate worldly thoughts. ...From here on out, discard your heart.

If I can't do that, my heart will burst.

I moved behind Hinako's back and gently lifted her silky, soft hair. The white skin hidden by her hair was exposed. The nice scent wafting even before using shampoo, the allure I felt from the nape of her neck... I won't pay attention to any of it. Don't pay attention, don't pay attention, don't pay attention.

"Ah... that tickles a little."

Please, stop it...

Don't make me lose my mind any further...

Right now, I'm seriously considering asking Shizune-san for medicine to kill my drive...

"You are always helping me, aren't you, Tomonari-kun."

Suddenly, Hinako said in a calm tone.

"...You can wash your own hair, can't you?"

At the very least, the current Hinako could...

I am always taking care of Hinako. However, I sometimes lack the confidence that I'm actually helping her in the true sense of the word. Just how much am I supporting Hinako's heavy life by washing her hair like this?

"Tomonari-kun."

Hinako softly grabbed my arm and looked back at me.

"Please, look at me closer."

"H-Hinako...?"

With Hinako bringing her face closer, I was bewildered.

In Hinako's eyes, my face was reflected.

In my eyes, too, Hinako's face was probably reflected.

"Look closer, more carefully... can't you tell?"

"W-What...?"

To a bewildered me, Hinako spoke.

"Just how much I am being saved by you."

To me, who couldn't say anything, Hinako smiled.

"I know you are always thinking about me, Tomonari-kun. The reason you didn't stop by the student council today was so you could be by my side, wasn't it?"

"That's..."

The reason I couldn't affirm it immediately was because I didn't want to sound patronizing.

In reality, it was exactly as Hinako said.

"I know... just how hard you are working to stand beside me, Tomonari-kun."

Near her chest, Hinako softly pressed her hands together and said.

As if adoring a treasure resting there.

"Everything, absolutely everything, has reached me. ...I wanted to convey that to you."

In Hinako's eyes, only I was reflected.

The one monopolizing those eyes was none other than me.

Surely, it's the same for me.

Right now, my eyes only reflect Hinako.

"I will go wash my body."

Hinako stood up.

Heading straight for the shower, Hinako looked back at me just once.

"...I would actually like you to wash my body as well, though."

"N-No, that's going a bit too far――!?"

"I am joking."

Hinako giggled.

"Thank you, always."

Her heartfelt gratitude was conveyed.

The one standing before me should be Hinako wearing the mask of the perfect young lady, yet those words were absolutely from her true feelings. The current Hinako is supposed to be acting, a fake, yet the emotions released from her lips were undeniably real.

...She's not a fake.

Even though I intended to accept Hinako's dual nature, perhaps somewhere in my heart I had been assigning an order of priority to each Hinako.

But, I was wrong. Both are the real Hinako.

The perfect young lady inside Hinako is acting, but it is not a fake. I finally understood that. The acting she has continued for so long holds accumulated memories, and those memories have become a brand new set of values... enabling her to say things she couldn't say as her true self, and feel things she couldn't feel.

For Hinako, the position of the perfect young lady might have been something far, far greater than I imagined.

To the point where... it could even shake her true self.

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