Back in her room alone, Yuri let out a soft sigh.
The tension she’d been holding back escaped along with the breath from her lungs.
(Wow... Konohana-san really felt like she was in a league of her own. Surely even Itsuki wouldn't end up in a special relationship with a Young Lady like that.)
She’d hidden it because she didn't want Itsuki to see her looking pathetic, but Yuri had often felt overwhelmed by the sheer presence these Young Ladies commanded. Hinako’s aura was especially intense; even now, if she let her guard down for a second, she felt like she might start fawning over her like a fan chasing a superstar.
It was impressive that Itsuki could talk to them so casually.
She found herself feeling a genuine sense of respect for him.
(...All three of them were such different types of Young Ladies.)
Hinako was the perfect lady, flawless from every angle. Even her smallest gestures highlighted the gap in their social standing, yet talking to her felt strangely comforting. Maybe a true Young Lady could command popularity as easily as breathing.
Mirei was the embodiment of dignity and elegance. She was sharp and had a strong core, but she was kind as well. It made her feel dependable, the kind of person who was easy to confide in. While Yuri had been the one being relied upon this time, Mirei was surely someone many people depended on usually.
Narika was a mass of extremes, possessing both immense strength and glaring weaknesses, making her easy to both admire and empathize with. Yuri’s research showed she had swept tournament after tournament in various martial arts, from kendo to judo. Her expertise might be niche, but her talent certainly rivaled the other two. And because Narika was so painfully aware of her own shortcomings, she seemed to crave growth more than any of them.
(I don't know what Itsuki’s thinking... but I’ve got a good handle on their personalities now.)
She’d glimpsed their individual charms.
Hinako was the one she admired most; staying by her side seemed like a dream.
Mirei was the one she respected most; earning her recognition would be the ultimate honor.
Narika was the one she wanted to support; once she overcame her weaknesses, she’d surely become someone truly remarkable.
(...Itsuki will likely be happy no matter which one he ends up with.)
Knowing that was enough.
After all, that was exactly why she’d approached them.
"Good grief. Everyone’s so busy being young."
Dirty cookware sat scattered in the kitchen, left for later. While the Young Ladies agonized over their love lives, Yuri set to work scrubbing dishes in the cold water.
Mirei and Narika both had the push they needed to move forward now.
She wondered who would take the lead first, but honestly, it didn't matter.
Whether he ended up with Mirei or Narika, Itsuki would be happy.
........................What about me?
"Stupid."
Yuri rebuked the question that had bubbled up in her mind.
"Stupid, stupid, stupid.........................I'm Itsuki’s big sister, after all."