It was the third day of academy life.
When the second period ended and the break began, Taisho and Asahi-san approached my desk.
"Tomonari, are you free after school today? You said before that you had to head straight home, but you can hang out with us every once in a while, right?"
I flashed a smile as I answered Taisho’s question.
"I’m free today, so I’d be happy to."
"Oh, nice!"
After discussing the matter with Ms. Shizune the other day, we had agreed that I could make after-school plans as long as I reported them to her in the morning. I’d make sure to let her know before the lunch break was over.
"Is there anywhere in particular you want to go, Tomonari-kun?" Asahi-san asked. "If not, we'll just decide for you."
"Well... since I have the chance, I’ll leave the destination to you two."
I didn't really know where the students of Kikou Academy spent their time after school. To avoid making a blunder that might expose my background, I decided it was best to follow their lead.
"Taisho-kun, what should we do? Since it’s just a day trip, we can’t really go abroad, right?"
"Taiwan is only three hours one way, but... even if we just went for dinner and came back, we might not make it home before midnight. We should probably stick to somewhere domestic."
"Oh, how about Kyoto? At this time of year, the Kyoto bamboo shoots are delicious."
"Kyoto, huh? I know a great spot there, too."
Listening to them discuss such grand plans so casually, a cold sweat broke out on my forehead.
Right. That’s right. I had forgotten. These two were elite heirs, too.
"U-Um... even though I said I’m free, I do need to be home by tonight. If possible, I’d prefer somewhere a bit closer..."
"Is that so? Then we shouldn't travel too far."
I wondered if I would have actually been on a plane to Kyoto right now if I hadn't spoken up.
"How about one of the cafes in the academy? They’re perfect for just sitting and talking," Asahi-san suggested.
"Ah, that might be a good idea," Taisho agreed.
I tilted my head in confusion as Taisho nodded.
"You see, there are several cafes in this academy designed specifically for tea parties," Asahi-san explained. "Some of them are quite authentic, but since they're on campus, there’s no dress code. They’re very popular with the students."
"Is that so... I had no idea."
However, if we were going to an authentic establishment, I’d have to be on my best behavior. I was receiving etiquette training from Ms. Shizune, but I was still far from confident.
"Well, the goal this time is just to deepen our friendship, so somewhere casual is best," Taisho said. "How about the cafe next to the cafeteria?"
"That sounds perfect."
I felt a surge of gratitude toward Taisho for his suggestion. I was relieved we weren't going anywhere too high-pressure.
"But just the three of us might be a little lonely," Taisho noted.
"True. It would be nice to have two or three more people," Asahi-san added.
They both looked at me.
"Tomonari, if you have anyone else you want to invite, feel free to call them, okay?"
"I understand... I'll see if anyone comes to mind."
Lunch break. I was eating my bento with Hinako on the rooftop.
"Itsuki... next, the konbu."
"Yes, yes."
I used my chopsticks to lift a piece of kelp from the bento and held it out to her.
"Mmm... it's reasonably tasty."
"Reasonably? It’s incredibly delicious."
As expected of the Young Lady of the Konohana family. She had a terrifyingly refined palate.
"Hey... couldn't you at least eat your meals by yourself?"
"Nooo..."
"If you can pull off that 'perfect lady' act in class, that means you can eat by yourself if you put your mind to it, right?"
"I am firmly against... dereliction of duty."
When she put it that way, it was hard to argue. While Hinako chewed slowly, I switched my chopsticks and ate my own lunch.
"...Itsuki."
"Yeah?"
"Are you going out to play today...?"
"It's not exactly 'playing,' just going to a cafe with my classmates..."
"I'm going too," Hinako said in a flat tone. "If Itsuki is going, I'm going too."
"I don't mind, but do you have permission from Ms. Shizune?"
"...I'll get it now."
Hinako pulled her smartphone from her pocket. She operated the screen with somewhat clumsy movements and held it to her ear.
『Young Lady? Do you require something?』
Since she was calling right next to me, I could hear Ms. Shizune's voice clearly.
"I want to attend a tea party. Together with Itsuki."
『...Understood. I intended to align today's schedule with Itsuki-sama’s plans anyway, so there is no issue with your participation.』
Permission was granted more easily than I expected. Like me, Hinako being too socially reclusive would eventually draw suspicion. It seemed they had already prepared for the possibility of her making plans.
『However, Young Lady. Are you certain? Your limit is likely approaching...』
"...I'll be fine."
I heard a cryptic exchange at the end, but Hinako hung up before I could ask.
"So, that's that... I’m looking forward to it."
"Yeah. By the way, the current members are Taisho and Asahi-san. Do you know them?"
"...I know their names."
I frowned at her vague response. I wondered if a conversation would even be possible with people she only knew by name.
"Um... you don't have to force yourself to come, you know? This is just about socializing, so if you don't think you'll enjoy it, it might be easier on you if you don't come..."
"...If Itsuki is going, I'm going too."
It was a stubborn reason, but if she was determined, there was no point in stopping her.
When the lunch break ended, Hinako and I returned to the school building separately, maintaining our distance.
"That makes four people..."
The group for the tea party was now four. I felt that was sufficient, but as I thought about who else I could invite, one face came to mind.
"She said she wanted to make friends... I'll try reaching out, just in case."
I headed toward the awkward, lonely girl.
I found my target, Narika Miyakojima, almost immediately.
I knew from the PE class the other day that Narika was in Class 2-B. Once I confirmed that Hinako had returned to her own classroom to resume her act, I headed for Class B—and spotted Narika within seconds.
...She’s really isolated.
As I expected, Narika was spending her lunch break in complete solitude. Sitting in the second-to-last seat by the window, she was eating her meal in silence.
From a distance, she was a dignified, striking beauty, but if you looked closer, there was a sharp wrinkle between her brows, and her upturned eyes looked almost hostile. It was no wonder people were too intimidated to approach her.
I wanted to be the one to call out to her, but—
The moment I approached, Narika whipped around.
"...?...Itsuki!!"
Noticing me, Narika abandoned her meal and stood up with startling force. A radiant smile broke across her face as she hurried toward me.
The Class B classroom instantly fell into an uproar.
"No way, are you serious...?"
"Did Miyakojima-san just call out a boy's name...?"
I heard some rather tragic rumors whispering in the background, but Narika reached me without noticing them, her eyes sparkling.
"W-What brings you here?! Do you need something from me?! I-I just happened to be completely free! Let's talk about anything you want!"
She’s being incredibly pushy...
Clearly, she had been desperately lonely by herself.
"F-For now, can we go somewhere else?"
"O-O-Of course! I'll follow you anywhere!"
Amidst dozens of piercing gazes, I led Narika out of the school building. To ensure I could respond if Hinako did anything unexpected, I didn't want to go too far from Class A. We went to a quiet spot behind the building, and I turned back to her.
"I wanted to explain things properly. I didn't get a chance to finish our talk the other day."
"The other day... T-That's right! I haven't forgiven you yet!"
As if suddenly remembering her pride, Narika's face turned bright red with indignation.
"Y-You used to be my caretaker, so why... why have you suddenly become Konohana-san's attendant?! Y-Y-Y-You... you traitor!!"
"Calling me a traitor is a bit much. Me being your caretaker was years ago."
"Don't just dismiss it as the past! I wanted to live with you again!!"
"Eh... you did?"
When I reacted with genuine surprise, Narika realized what she had blurted out. Her face turned an even deeper shade of crimson.
"W-Waaaah!? Forget that! That didn't count! Forget I said anything!"
"A-Ah... okay. Well, I’d appreciate it if you could calm down a bit."
She’s even more high-strung than she used to be. I started to feel a pang of pity for her.
"About what I mentioned yesterday... in short, I was adopted."
"...Adopted?"
"Yeah. My current father is the president of a medium-sized company. He has a connection with the Konohana family, so while I'm at Kikou Academy, it was arranged for me to live and work at their house."
"Hmph... wait. That doesn't make sense. Just because there's a connection doesn't mean you have to work there."
I figured she’d catch that. I calmly recalled the cover story I had memorized.
"Do you know what an etiquette trainee is?"
"Yes. It's when someone lives in the home of a wealthy family to work while learning manners and social graces. It was common in Japan during the Meiji era and has been a tradition in Europe since the Middle Ages."
As expected of a Kikou Academy student, she was well-educated. Her intellect was far beyond mine.
"Me working for the Konohana family is basically like being an etiquette trainee. Since I don't know the first thing about high society manners, I'm helping out around the house in exchange for them teaching me."
"...I see. So that's how it is."
Ms. Shizune really was a master of cover stories. She had even prepared forged documents, so it would likely hold up under a basic background check.
"B-But... if that’s the case, my house would have been perfectly fine too!"
"Well, even if you say that, the Konohana family was just the first opportunity that came up..."
"...Mmmmmm." Narika pouted.
"Please don't tell anyone about this."
"...I understand. Being an adopted son can be a fragile position."
I had other reasons for the secrecy, but Narika interpreted it in a way that worked in my favor. That should settle the matter of my role with Hinako.
"Anyway, Narika. Are you free after school today?"
"After school? Well, yes, I’m free."
"If you'd like, why don't you come talk with us at a cafe?"
"Talk at a cafe?...I-I-I-Is that by any chance... a tea party!?"
"Yeah, something like that."
"I-I would be delighted to participate!" Narika’s eyes sparkled. "A-Aaaah, to be honest, I’ve always dreamed of attending a tea party...! Everyone at Kikou Academy deepens their friendships that way, but I’ve never been invited once... I thought I’d graduate without ever experiencing one..."
"I-I see... that sounds like it’s been tough."
Every time I talked to Narika, I felt like I was being overwhelmed by her tragic aura.
"By the way, the other participants are Taisho and Asahi-san from Class A, and Hinako-san."
"...Eh? A-Are there other people coming too...?"
"Yeah. It's technically a welcome party for me."
"A welcome party... I see. I heard you just transferred the other day."
Transfer students weren't unheard of at Kikou Academy, but it was still enough to generate some gossip.
"I want to go... but I’m nervous... I-I might not be able to speak well..."
"You talk to me normally enough."
"That's because... because Itsuki knows the real me. There's no point in trying to hide anything."
"Then why not just be yourself with everyone else too?"
"I-If I could do that, I wouldn't be in this mess!!" Narika shouted, tears pricking the corners of her eyes. "Besides... it's not just my problem."
"...What do you mean?"
"I don't like saying it myself, but the Miyakojima family is powerful. Because of that, most students are intimidated by my name alone....It's not just that I'm awkward; they’re scared of me before I even open my mouth."
"...I see."
That was a fair point. It wasn't just Narika’s social skills at play.
"In that regard, Konohana-san is incredible. I don't want to admit it since she stole Itsuki away... but I envy her popularity from the bottom of my heart. Normally, someone from a family as powerful as the Konohana Group would be terrifying, yet everyone approaches her so easily. I wonder how she manages to be so beloved..."
Narika looked down, her voice trailing off.
I knew exactly why Hinako was so popular. It was an act. She was meticulously playing the role of a perfect lady that everyone could love. But I couldn't tell her that.
"I don't know the secret to her popularity, but if you spend time with her, you might find some hints."
"...You're right. Itsuki will be there too, so I’ll definitely come."
Summoning her courage, Narika clenched her fists.
"B-But, will it really be okay? What if I ruin the mood...?"
"I'm sure it'll be fine. Probably."
"Probably...?"
"Definitely."
I encouraged the anxious Narika with a sigh. Both Asahi-san and Taisho seemed like good people. Asahi-san had even mentioned trying to reach out to Narika before. I was sure they’d welcome her.
After parting with Narika, I was heading back toward Class A when I heard voices from further down the hallway.
"T-Thank you so much!! For helping me!"
"Think nothing of it."
To the girl bowing in gratitude, a student with blonde ringlets responded with a regal air. Witnessing that striking silhouette, I accidentally spoke her name aloud.
"Tennoji-san?"
"Oh, if it isn't you..."
Tennoji-san’s eyes narrowed as she looked at me. Come to think of it, we’d had a rather chaotic parting last time. I didn't want her dwelling on that, so I quickly searched for a topic.
"Umm, what were you doing?"
"Nothing of consequence. The student on duty was struggling with materials for class, so I merely lent them a hand."
I’d noticed this when she retrieved the wallet, too—Tennoji-san was surprisingly kind. It seemed she habitually took the initiative to help others.
"I have heard the rumors, by the way. It seems you are a transfer student."
"Yes. I’m Itsuki Tomonari. I transferred in the day before yesterday." I realized I hadn't properly introduced myself yet.
"Well then, Tomonari-san....I heard you arrived at school with Hinako Konohana. It has caused quite a stir in certain circles."
Right, Tennoji-san viewed Hinako as her rival. It would be a hassle if she started seeing me as an enemy as well.
"We came together on the first day so she could show me the way, but we’ve come separately ever since. There’s a minor family connection, but nothing more than that."
"I wonder. Are you not part of the Konohana Faction as well?"
"Konohana Faction?"
Tennoji-san explained as I tilted my head.
"It is merely what I call them. There are many students here who virtually worship Hinako Konohana, so I use it as a collective term for her followers."
"...I see."
It sounded like a fan club. Kikou Academy was surprisingly mundane in some ways.
"...Tennoji-san, do you hate Hinako-san?"
"I-It's not that I hate her! It's just that because of her, my original radiance is being eclipsed!" Tennoji-san said, looking flustered. "I acknowledge her abilities. She has looks and grades that rival my own. It is only natural that she is popular."
"That’s a very roundabout way of praising yourself..."
I wished she could share some of that confidence with Narika.
"However, Hinako Konohana is... despite me being the daughter of the Tennoji Group, she is far too pampered! The Tennoji Group is on par with the Konohana Group, and our history is actually deeper! Normally, I should be the one at the center of attention!!"
Tennoji-san glared at me intensely.
"If you aren't one of her followers, you must agree, right!?"
"Eh? Uh, yeah, I guess..."
"Exactly!! It’s utterly unacceptable! I don't understand why she stands out more than I do. A people-pleaser like that... I’m certain she’s just a lazy, good-for-nothing slob once she gets home!"
She had hit remarkably close to the truth. I decided to stay silent.
"...Is it her affability? No, someone of noble birth should behave with dignity, like I do. Too many smiles risk undermining one's authority, and she coddles people too much with their studies. Besides, just the other day—"
As Tennoji-san continued to mutter to herself, I decided to test the waters.
"Tennoji-san, you seem to know a lot about Hinako-san."
"Wha—!? I-I-It’s... this much is only natural!" She turned bright red and denied it with excessive vigor. "Hinako Konohana and I are rivals! It is only natural to investigate one's opponent! As they say, 'Know your enemy and know yourself, and you will never be defeated!'"
While she was spouting historical idioms, I considered her personality. Narika had said that carrying a powerful family name made others stay away. Carrying the weight of the Tennoji Group, she might be just as lonely as Narika.
But Hinako... someone from a family of equal stature like Hinako might be the only one who could stand on equal ground with her. Perhaps that was why Tennoji-san was so fixated on her.
"Um... are you free after school today?"
"After school? Well, yes, but why do you ask?"
"We're having a tea party at the cafe next to the cafeteria. Hinako-san is going to be there."
"H-Hinako Konohana!?" Tennoji-san’s eyes widened. "I see! You intend to lure me in and convert me to the Konohana Faction...!!"
"Why are you so suspicious? I'm just inviting you normally."
She was way too conscious of Hinako.
"W-Well, if she insists on me being there, I suppose I could reluctantly participate."
"Actually, Hinako-san hasn't said anything about it..."
"...Is that so?"
"Yeah."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"...Actually, now that I think about it, she might have mentioned it, so would you come?"
"I-I suppose it can't be helped! I shall attend!"
Since things had gotten awkward, I decided to tell a small white lie. Tennoji-san’s eyes sparkled. It seemed she really had wanted to join.
"As they say, 'Know your enemy and know yourself,' after all!"
I just heard that one.
After school, Taisho and Asahi-san were stunned when they saw the group gathered at the cafe.
"I said you could invite whoever you wanted, but... wow, this is an incredible lineup," Taisho said, looking over the young ladies present.
Six of us were gathered around a circular white table. In addition to me, Taisho, and Asahi-san, there were Hinako, Narika, and Tennoji-san.
None of these three young ladies were the type to just fade into the background. Hinako was in the middle of her act, wearing a gentle smile; Narika was sitting beside her, acting extremely suspiciously; and Tennoji-san was regally sipping her tea.
"H-Hey, Tomonari-kun. What’s the connection here? How do you know such powerful people after only three days...?" Asahi-san whispered.
"It just kind of happened..."
Hinako aside, I had invited Narika and Tennoji-san because I thought it would be a good chance to bridge some gaps. But looking at it objectively, having the daughters of the Konohana, Miyakojima, and Tennoji families at one table was probably a historic event.
"This is Tomonari-san's welcome party, is it not?" Tennoji-san said, setting her cup down. "I am late in saying so, but congratulations on your transfer. Kikou Academy is far stricter than other schools, but graduating from here will surely bear fruit in your future. I look forward to seeing what you achieve."
"T-Thank you very much."
I bowed, a bit flustered. Being praised by the dignified Tennoji-san actually felt quite good.
"There are some here I am meeting for the first time, so let us introduce ourselves. I am Mirei Tennoji, daughter of the Tennoji Group."
With the ice broken, Taisho and Asahi-san followed suit.
"I'm Katsuya Taisho. My family is in the transportation business."
"I'm Karen Asahi. My family is in retail—mostly electronics mass retailers."
Next were Hinako and Narika.
"I am Hinako Konohana. It is a pleasure to meet you all."
"I-I'm Narika Miyakojima. Nice to meet y-you."
She slipped on her words, but I pretended not to notice. Hinako and Tennoji-san kept their expressions neutral. Taisho and Asahi-san, however, looked baffled, as if they couldn't believe the 'Cool Beauty' Miyakojima had just tripped over her own greeting.
"And I'm Itsuki Tomonari. My family runs an IT firm."
I finished the introductions by stating my name and the family business. Once we were done, Tennoji-san spoke up again.
"Let me say this now: there is no need to be formal on my account. You may speak as you normally would. Taisho-san, Asahi-san—weren't you much more frank before?"
"Ugh... well, if you already noticed, I guess there’s no point in hiding it," Taisho admitted.
"Ahaha, true. Then we'll just be ourselves," Asahi-san added.
They looked awkward for a second but quickly relaxed. Tennoji-san then turned her attention to Hinako.
"I see you occasionally at tea parties, do I not, Konohana-san?"
"Yes. You are always so kind to me, Tennoji-san."
"............Is that sarcasm...?" Tennoji-san’s smile twitched.
Hinako, seemingly oblivious, serenely sipped her tea. Narika and Tennoji-san were both striking, but Hinako possessed a level of refinement that was in a class of its own. The elegant way she tilted her cup had everyone’s eyes glued to her.
"U-Um! Konohana-san! I’m in your class... do you know me?" Asahi-san asked nervously.
"Of course, Asahi-san. Thank you for always being the mood maker of Class A. I feel the classroom is much more comfortable thanks to your presence."
"A-Ahaha, it’s nothing....Wow, seriously. Hearing that from Konohana-san makes me so happy." Asahi-san tried to hide her beaming face with her hands.
"W-What about me? Do you know me!?" Taisho chimed in.
"I know you as well, Taisho-kun. I think your friendly attitude toward everyone is very charming."
"Ohh... ohhhh! I feel like I just earned a huge amount of good karma...!" Taisho looked like he was about to ascend to heaven.
"Gnnn... why does no one ask me anything...!" Tennoji-san muttered, clearly annoyed that Hinako had stolen the spotlight. I decided to change the subject before she got too grumpy.
"Narika, have you ever talked to people at a tea party before?"
"A-Ah. I only attend the minimum number of off-campus events," she replied.
I wondered if she only attended the ones she was forced to. Just then, I realized everyone was staring at me.
"...Narika?" someone whispered. They were clearly curious why I was using her first name.
Before I could decide how to explain our relationship, Narika spoke up.
"I-Itsuki and I met when we were ten. That’s why I was invited today."
"Heh~! I see!" Asahi-san said, surprised.
Narika looked down, her face going stiff. She was just being shy, but to an outsider, she looked like she was in a foul mood. This was exactly why she was so isolated. I decided to jump in.
"She’s often misunderstood, but Narika isn't actually scary. She spent most of her childhood indoors, so she’s just a bit socially awkward."
"...Is that so?" Asahi-san asked.
"Yeah. Those rumors people spread? They’re all lies."
Narika looked at me with tearful eyes, clearly moved. I hoped this would be the start of some real friendships for her.
"I believe the Miyakojima family runs a sporting goods manufacturer?" Tennoji-san asked.
"A-Ah. Yes... you're well-informed."
"Don't be modest. Everyone here knows the Miyakojima name. It doesn't take much research to realize those rumors are baseless....I don't see you at social gatherings often, so how do you usually spend your time?"
"U-Usually... I’m practicing at home..."
"Practicing?"
"My family has a dojo. Training there is my daily routine. R-Recently, I’ve been testing our company’s prototypes quite a bit."
"Is that so? It sounds like you lead a very productive life." Tennoji-san seemed genuinely impressed.
Next to them, Asahi-san was talking to Hinako.
"Since we're here, I wanted to ask—what do you do at home, Konohana-san? Is it just constant studying?"
"Studying is important, but I make sure to relax as well. I enjoy reading... and occasionally, I like to have some snacks."
"Heh~, you like snacks too? What kind do you usually eat?"
"Let’s see... scones, perhaps?"
Liar. You eat nothing but potato chips.
"By the way, you and Tomonari-kun have a family connection, right?" Asahi-san asked Hinako.
"Yes. My father and his father are acquaintances."
"Did you two not meet until recently?"
"That’s right. But now, as you can see, we’re close enough to share a table." Hinako replied with a smile.
Asahi-san leaned in with a mischievous grin. "Hmm~? That sounds a bit suspicious. Are you sure that’s all there is to it?"
"Hey, Asahi. Don't go making weird assumptions," Taisho said with a wry smile.
"Ehh, but come on. A connection between parents is a classic setup for a fiancé, right? Maybe you two are already in a deep relationship...?"
I could tell she was joking, but in response to the question, Hinako said nothing and slowly sipped her tea.
...Hey. Why are you suddenly silent?
The silence felt incredibly heavy. Even Asahi-san’s smile began to falter. Tennoji-san frowned suspiciously, and Narika went pale.
"No, well... that’s not it at all," I said, stepping in since Hinako wasn't answering. "Like she said, our parents are just acquaintances. There’s nothing special between us. Besides... I’m not exactly in her league."
One of us was the daughter of the world-famous Konohana Group; the other was the son of a medium-sized company. Even with my fake background, the gap was massive.
"Well, regardless of 'leagues'... Tomonari-kun is probably too busy with his studies right now anyway," Asahi-san said, letting it go.
"Exactly," I replied with a smile.
Beside me, Narika leaned in and whispered, "Liar..."
She was keeping her voice down, so she was honoring the secret, but she clearly still wasn't happy about me working at the Konohana house.
Still—it was going well overall. Narika seemed to be fitting in, and Tennoji-san was being friendly toward everyone except Hinako. I was glad I invited them.
I relaxed and took a sip of my tea. Immediately, Tennoji-san’s gaze fell on me.
"Tomonari-san. When drinking tea, it is more elegant to bring the cup to your mouth rather than leaning down to meet it."
"I-I see... thank you."
The moment I relaxed, my commoner roots started showing. Looking around, everyone else was perfectly poised. I had to remember that I was the only one here with a fake status.
"Tomonari, did you go to a normal school before this?" Taisho asked.
"Yeah. So I'm not very confident in my manners..."
"I heard from a friend that normal schools have some really interesting traditions," Asahi-san said. "Like... splitting the bill."
"Splitting the bill?" Taisho tilted his head.
It seemed I had to explain. "Splitting the bill is just when everyone pays for their own share... do students here not do that?"
"Not really. Isn't it faster if one person just pays the whole thing?"
"Maybe, but doesn't that mean someone is always being treated?"
"If it bothers you, you can just pay next time. Usually, the person who invited everyone or whoever just feels like it pays. We don't really worry about it."
That sounds so haphazard... I’d be stressed out if someone treated me every time.
"And what about 'keeping what you borrowed'?" Asahi-san asked.
"Oh, right! That’s when you just keep something you borrowed, right?" Taisho added. "Why would anyone do that? They could just buy it."
"N-No, that’s not exactly a 'tradition'..." I quickly corrected them. It’s not like commoners are just thieves; that only happens by accident.
"Did your old school have anything like that, Tomonari?"
I thought for a moment, trying to find something that would amuse them.
"How about... the three-second rule?"
"The three-second rule?" Asahi-san asked.
"It’s mostly for food. If you drop something on the floor, but pick it up within three seconds, it’s still okay to eat."
"W-What in the world...?"
"It’s not a big deal, but... here, let me demonstrate." I picked up a small pastry from the table and broke off a piece. "If I’m eating and I drop it like this..."
I deliberately dropped the piece onto the table and quickly snatched it back up.
"Since I picked it up in under three seconds, it's still fine to eat."
"Haaa... people really do come up with the strangest things," Taisho said, looking genuinely impressed.
Are you making fun of me? No, they seemed legitimately fascinated, which was almost worse. This was just a story about bad manners. I was about to tell them they shouldn't actually do it when—
"Like this?"
Hinako, sitting across from me, mimicked my action and dropped a piece of pastry on the table. She quickly picked it up and popped it into her mouth.
"Y-Yeah, like that..." I said, my voice trembling.
Seeing the elegant, perfect Hinako do something so common shocked everyone at the table. Tennoji-san cleared her throat.
"Commoners certainly have imaginative ways of looking at things... but I cannot say I find this 'three-second rule' very appealing."
"But honestly, I can kind of understand the logic behind it," Asahi-san said. "I might try it sometime if the chance comes up."
"It is not a matter of logic, but of propriety," Tennoji-san scolded. Asahi-san just laughed it off.
The tea party continued smoothly after that. The first event ended peacefully without any major incidents.
As we left the cafe and walked toward the gate, several black luxury cars were already waiting.
"We’ve been waiting, Young Lady," a servant said to Asahi-san.
"Geez, I told you to stop calling me that..." she muttered with a wry smile as she got into the car. Taisho followed her in.
"Wait, are you two going together?" I asked.
"Yeah. Our families are close and we live nearby," Taisho explained.
"Our families' servants take turns doing the pickup," Asahi-san added.
It seemed they had a similar arrangement to the public one Hinako and I had.
"Well, see you guys tomorrow!"
"Had a blast today, Tomonari!"
As their car drove off, Tennoji-san’s ride pulled up.
"I shall take my leave as well," she said with a slight bow.
Unlike Asahi-san’s driver, Tennoji-san was surrounded by several men in suits who looked more like bodyguards than servants.
"H-Hinako Konohana!"
"Yes?"
Hinako responded to Tennoji-san’s nervous call with her usual gentle smile.
"I-It was our first time having tea together privately... and it was not entirely unpleasant! N-Next time, I hope we can discuss more substantial matters, like our studies or our family businesses!"
"Of course. I would be happy to."
Tennoji-san had managed to secure a second meeting. She beamed happily for a second before catching herself and turning to me.
"Ahem... and Tomonari-san."
She cleared her throat pointedly.
"You kept your posture straight today. You look much more attractive that way."
I stiffened for a second. "T-Thank you."
I hadn't expected a compliment, so my reaction was slow. Tennoji-san gave a small, satisfied smile, then turned on her heel and got into her car.
"You two are certainly friendly," Narika muttered.
"It was just a social pleasantry."
"No, Tennoji-san is very blunt. You can take that as a genuine compliment....To be praised by her after only three days is impressive."
Narika sounded a bit grumpy, unlike the straightforward Tennoji-san.
Just then, two black cars pulled up, and a familiar figure stepped out.
"Thank you for your hard work, Young Lady, Itsuki-sama."
"...Ms. Shizune?"
Ms. Shizune, dressed in her maid uniform, gave a polite bow.
"Narika Miyakojima-sama, I presume? I am Shizune Tsurumi, a servant of the Konohana family."
Narika jumped slightly, clearly not expecting to be addressed.
"I believe Itsuki-sama has already explained his circumstances to you. Since our family has a long-standing relationship with his parents, we would appreciate it if you kept this matter confidential."
"A-Ah... yes. I’ve heard the explanation and I understand. I won't tell anyone, I promise."
"Thank you." Ms. Shizune bowed respectfully. It seemed she had come specifically to reinforce the cover story.
Since Narika knew I worked for the Konohana family, she wouldn't find it strange when Hinako and I got into the same car.
"Has your ride not come yet, Narika?"
"It should be here soon, but..."
Narika’s phone buzzed. She took the call, then let out a small sigh as she hung up.
"Something wrong?"
"Traffic is bad. My driver is going to be a little late. He’s close, so I’ll just walk toward him. You guys go ahead."
Go ahead? After the kidnapping attempt the other day, there was no way I was leaving her alone.
"Ms. Shizune, I'm going to see Narika to her car."
Both Ms. Shizune and Narika blinked in surprise. I looked at Narika. "Your driver is nearby, right? I'll walk you there."
"I-I’d love that... but is it okay?"
I looked at Ms. Shizune, who nodded as if she’d read my mind.
"Understood. The Young Lady’s schedule is tight, so we will return to the villa first. I will arrange a separate car for you, Itsuki-sama."
Ms. Shizune looked at Hinako, who was already in the car. "Young Lady, you have no objections?"
"None," Hinako said with a smile.
"Thanks," I said, and turned to walk with Narika.
Once the car pulled away from the academy, Hinako let out a massive breath.
"I'm so tiiiired..."
"Thank you for your hard work," Ms. Shizune said.
Dropping her act, Hinako sighed listlessly. She knelt on the back seat and looked out the rear window.
"Mmm... Itsuki is with someone else..."
"If you disliked the idea, you should not have given him permission."
"...Would it have been okay if I told him to stay?"
"That was a slip of the tongue. It would be unnatural for the 'perfect lady' to stop him in that situation."
Itsuki’s decision to walk Narika to her car was a gentlemanly one. The perfect lady persona could not hinder that for selfish reasons.
"Hey, Shizune....Do you know the three-second rule?" Hinako asked with a smug, knowing grin.
She clearly thought she was teaching her something new.
"Yes, I am familiar with it."
"...Eh."
"It is a famous superstition, and quite a bit of research has been done on it. A study by an American high school student even won an Ig Nobel Prize. Though, in the U.S., it is more commonly known as the five-second rule."
"...Mmm."
Hinako pouted, annoyed that Ms. Shizune knew more than she did. Ms. Shizune gave a small smile.
"Truly... the Young Lady has changed since Itsuki-san arrived."
"...Really?"
"You have attended tea parties before, but those were always at Kagon-sama’s command. This was the first time you chose to go of your own accord, was it not?"
"Hmm... maybe." Hinako said, her voice sounding indifferent.
Ms. Shizune watched her with a worried gaze. "Young Lady... how is your physical condition?"
"...I think it’s coming soon," Hinako replied listlessly.
"Haaaaaa..."
As Hinako’s car disappeared from view, Narika let out a long, deep breath.
"What's the matter?" I asked.
"Nothing... I can finally just relax my shoulders..."
It seemed she was finally coming down from her nerves.
"You said you were bad at talking, but you did fine today."
"That wasn't me. It was only because everyone else was helping me... I just barely managed not to embarrass myself."
That was true to an extent. Asahi-san and Tennoji-san had both been very considerate. Asahi-san kept the energy up so Narika could join in, and Tennoji-san had asked her questions to pull her into the conversation.
"Itsuki... thank you. Truly." Narika turned to me, her voice sincere. "If you weren't here, I’d probably be alone until graduation."
"I don't think that’s true. I only helped a little."
"No, I know myself. Today is a day that will change my life." She stared at me intently. "Itsuki, you really are... my hero. When we were kids, you showed me the outside world... and now, you saved me from being alone."
She was definitely exaggerating. I didn't think I’d done anything that dramatic.
"That’s why... it’s so unfair," Narika whispered, looking down.
"You're still on that?"
"Yes! I'll say it as many times as I have to! It’s just too much! We finally meet again, and you're living at the Konohana house!"
"It was just my parents' arrangement."
"Ggggh! You said you were an etiquette trainee, but what else are you doing? You have actual work, right?"
"Yeah, but mostly just taking care of her daily needs."
"She doesn't need anyone to take care of her! She’s already perfect!"
She’s only perfect on the surface. Of course, I couldn't say that, so I stayed silent.
"...When does this training end?"
"I'm not sure yet."
"W-When it does, come to my house! It would be nostalgic for you, wouldn't it!?"
It would, but I was supposed to be at the Konohana villa until graduation.
"I'll think about it."
"Was that a social pleasantry!?"
I wasn't Mirei Tennoji, but even I knew how to use a pleasantry now and then.
"That concludes today's training. Thank you for your hard work."
"T-Thank you..."
I was dripping with sweat in the Konohana dojo. Even on the day of a tea party, the lessons didn't stop. If anything, the schedule was more packed than usual, leaving me exhausted.
"Itsukiii. Time for the baaaath..."
The dojo door opened, and Hinako appeared.
"...Is it that time already?"
It was 10:00 PM. I wanted to wash off my own sweat, so I started toward the door—
"Young Lady. I have something to discuss with Itsuki-san. Please head to your room first."
"Hmm... okay. Don't be long." Hinako nodded and left.
"Is something wrong?" I asked.
"I won't take much of your time," Ms. Shizune said formally. "I will omit the details since I don't want to keep the Young Lady waiting, but... her physical condition has been unstable lately. Please be vigilant, Itsuki-san."
"Unstable? She seemed fine at the tea party."
"Strictly speaking, I believe she will likely fall ill in the very near future."
"...?"
I didn't understand what she meant, but she told me to be careful, so I kept it in mind.
I went to Hinako’s room, changed into my swimsuit in the dressing area, and entered the bathroom.
"Ahhh... Itsuki’s here..."
I approached Hinako, who already looked a bit dizzy from the steam, and began washing her hair.
"Any itchy spots?"
"Nope..."
Washing Hinako’s hair had become a daily task. Ms. Shizune had even taught me the proper way—warming the scalp with water, carefully applying shampoo, then massaging in conditioner.
"...Ms. Shizune really went all out with this, didn't she?" I said, looking back.
A private shower stall had been installed inside the bathroom. It was like a room within a room. Ms. Shizune had realized we couldn't properly wash our bodies while wearing swimsuits, so she’d had the stall put in so we could wash in private.
"Hinako, can you grab the bucket for me?"
"Okay..."
She reached for it but dropped it halfway. The bucket clattered against the floor.
"...Ah."
Hinako looked like she’d just had a realization. She quickly snatched the bucket up.
"Three-second rule."
"...I mean, yeah, I guess." I didn't quite know how to react to her smug look.
"This... is fun."
"I'm glad showing it to you was worth it." Though I really hoped she wouldn't do that in public.
"After we said goodbye today... what were you talking about with Miyakojima-san?"
"Nothing special. Just that the tea party was fun. That was about it."
"...Hmm." Hinako sounded unconvinced. "Itsuki... you're my caretaker."
She whispered it so quietly I almost missed it.
"............Don't go anywhere."
"Eh?"
Her voice was so thin I couldn't make it out. When I asked her to repeat it, she didn't answer. Instead, she slowly leaned her body against me. I froze at the sudden contact.
"H-Hey... you'll catch a cold if you fall asleep in the bath." I shook her gently, but she didn't respond. "Hinako...?"
Something was wrong. She was dripping with sweat and her breathing was heavy and labored.
"—Hinako!?"
After Hinako collapsed, I carried her straight to her room and called Ms. Shizune. I thought she’d just been overwhelmed by the heat, but she looked like she was in genuine pain. After drying her off, Ms. Shizune checked her over.
"A slight fever," she said, looking down at Hinako in the bed. "For now, we should let her sleep."
Ms. Shizune already had medical supplies ready. While I stepped out of the room, she quickly changed Hinako into her pajamas and then gave her some medication. Her movements were so practiced it felt strange.
"Is something wrong?"
"No... you’re just very calm about this."
"Yes. It happens periodically."
"Periodically...?"
Ms. Shizune looked at me and explained. "The reason the Young Lady collapsed is the stress from her acting."
It took a moment for those words to sink in.
"Stress from acting? You mean... the 'perfect lady' act she does every day?"
"Yes. She is performing a persona that is fundamentally different from her true self. It is only natural that it causes her stress."
Ms. Shizune’s flat tone was a shock. It was true that Hinako was meticulous about her act, but once she got home, she was just her usual lazy self. I knew it must be stifling, but I never imagined it was physically painful enough to make her collapse.
"W-Wait a minute. Why are you so casual about it? It’s making her collapse! We can’t just let this keep happening..."
"It is a fever that subsides in two or three days. There is no need for excessive concern."
"But if it's doing this to her, she should just stop—"
"—Know your place."
Ms. Shizune’s eyes snapped to mine, sharp and cold.
"This is the will of the Konohana family. It is not something that can be changed by personal feelings... and of course, the Young Lady herself is aware of the situation."
Hinako was aware. The thought echoed in my head. My sense of justice for her crumbled. She knew what she was doing. She knew it would make her collapse, and she did it anyway. Then who was I supposed to be angry at?
"When she is in the public eye, she is fully focused on her performance. In exchange, she must relax completely when she is at the villa. Her laziness here is a direct result of the exhaustion caused by her act."
"...So her listlessness here is a reaction to the performance?"
"Exactly. While her natural personality plays a role, she is noticeably more energetic on holidays when she does not have to perform."
I hadn't known any of this. I had no idea she was carrying such a burden.
"Itsuki-sama. You should get some sleep, or it will affect your classes tomorrow."
"Hinako is like this, and I’m still supposed to go to school?"
"Naturally. Given your current academic standing, you cannot afford to miss any days."
"But I'm her caretaker..."
"Each to their own role. I am well-versed in treating the Young Lady’s condition." Ms. Shizune stared me down. "I will handle the nursing. Please return to your room."
The next day, I went to Kikou Academy alone.
"Yo, Tomonari! Yesterday was great, right?" Taisho said cheerfully as I sat down. Asahi-san joined us soon after.
"Oh, Konohana-san isn't here today," she noted.
"Probably just the usual," Taisho said.
"The usual?" I asked.
"Oh, you didn't know? She misses school every once in a while. Apparently, she has to help with the family business. She really has it rough."
I gave a vague nod. So that was the story. Her periodic collapses were kept a secret from the students—maybe from everyone at the academy.
But that meant... no one was actually worrying about her. She was hiding her true self behind an act, and then hiding her pain behind a lie.
Who was there to actually stay by her side? Who was there to help her when things were truly hard?
I spent the day in a complicated mood until school let out.
"Thank you for your hard work," Ms. Shizune said from the passenger seat as I got into the car.
With Hinako gone, the back seat felt huge and empty.
"Ms. Shizune... how is Hinako?"
"She is resting quietly."
So she still hasn't recovered.
"...How long will it take?"
"Based on past cases, she should be fine by tomorrow or the day after. Since tomorrow is the weekend, she will likely be fully recovered by Monday."
I was glad it was Friday. No... that was wrong. Monday meant she’d have to go back to school. She’d have to start acting again.
Why did things have to be this way? A name flashed through my mind.
"Um... is Kagon-sama coming to see her?"
Ms. Shizune kept her eyes forward. "Kagon-sama is working. He is at the main residence."
"But his daughter has collapsed."
"He is the head of the Konohana Group. He cannot simply stop working just because the Young Lady has a fever."
It felt cowardly for her to hide behind 'the way of their world' like that. My common sense didn't apply here. Everything I said was treated as being beside the point.
"Then... what about her mother?"
Ms. Shizune paused for a moment before answering. "...She has passed away."
The answer caught me off guard. Come to think of it, Hinako had never mentioned her mother. If she were deceased, it made sense why she wasn't a topic of conversation.
"............I see."
Another thing I didn't know. Of course—I’d only been her caretaker for a few days. It was natural that I didn't know everything. But her father wasn't coming, and her mother was gone.
How many people were there who could actually stay by her side while she was suffering?
Could I... be one of them?
"...Ms. Shizune. Can we cancel today's training?"
"We cannot. You still have much to learn, Itsuki-sama."
"Then let's finish it as fast as possible. I'll work twice as hard to make up for the time."
Ms. Shizune’s eyes widened slightly. "...Understood. Then we shall proceed at one and a half times our usual speed."
It was a hellish schedule, but I didn't care. Once we reached the villa, Ms. Shizune was as good as her word. Prep, review, etiquette, self-defense—we blasted through everything. My head was throbbing with exhaustion, but I finished two hours early.
"That concludes today's training."
"Thank... you. Can I go to Hinako’s room now?"
"You may. I will join you shortly. Please look after her until then."
I hurried to my room, showered quickly, and then headed to Hinako’s room.
The room was dim, lit only by a soft orange nightlight. I carefully approached the bed.
"Ah, Itsuki’s here..." Hinako whispered.
"Sorry. Did I wake you?"
"No... I’ve just been staring at nothing for a while..."
Ms. Shizune said she’d been sleeping all day, so she was likely well-rested.
"Itsuki... thank you..."
"For what?"
"For coming... I’m happy."
"...Of course I came. I'm your caretaker."
"Ehe..." Hinako gave a small, relieved smile.
"If you need anything, just tell me."
Hinako turned her body toward me. "Then............ hold my hand. Tight."
She slowly reached out.
"That’s easy."
I took her hand. It was so small. The hand of the girl who was the most regal, most brilliant student at the academy—it felt so thin and fragile, as if it would break if I gripped it too hard.
"...Is she asleep?"
She was breathing softly and steadily. I looked around the massive, quiet room. Being alone in a place like this while sick must be incredibly lonely.
Someone had to be here with her.
Was it okay for it to be me? I wondered. Did she really feel safe just because I was here? At the end of the day, I was just a caretaker—it was a job. I didn't know what she really thought of me.
A replaceable servant? A convenient menial? I hoped she didn't see me that way. But we were too close for a simple servant and master, yet too composed for anything else. Our relationship was a mystery.
...But I suppose it doesn't matter right now. At the very least, I knew she trusted me.