It was the fifth day of the Summer Seminar.
By then, I’d learned to navigate the sprawling hotel without relying on the directory.
"By the way, Itsuki-san, what have you been doing about bathing?"
"Bathing?"
Ms. Shizune asked me while I was visiting Hinako’s room.
I stole a glance at Hinako, who was lounging lazily on the bed, and answered.
"I’ve just been using the hot springs normally."
When I tilted my head, wondering if something was wrong, Ms. Shizune bowed her head slightly.
"I apologize that we have ended up spending so much time apart."
"No, it can't be helped. I'm the only boy, after all."
Even if we were technically acting separately, we could still talk like this. I didn't feel lonely.
To begin with, I’d intended for this trip to be strictly for the Summer Seminar rather than a vacation. Even so, I’d already ended up enjoying myself more than expected, what with exploring the hotel and having a pajama party.
"Ah, but I’m thinking of trying the bath in my room today. Since I’m staying in such a nice place, I figure I should use it at least once."
"I think that is a fine idea. The Young Lady and I have also been using only the bath in this room."
"Is that so?"
"The Young Lady cannot truly relax in places where she might be seen by others, you see."
Come to think of it, that made sense.
Other students from Kikou Academy were also staying at this hotel. If she ran into them at the hot springs, she would have to maintain her usual facade.
"……Are you talking about the bath?"
Hinako stirred, pushing herself up from the bed to look at us.
When I nodded, she simply opened her small mouth and said, "Itsuki. Let’s get in together."
"No… No, no, no…………"
I absolutely knew she was going to say that.
(Setting aside whether we actually get in together… I am a bit curious about the bath in this room.)
After all, this was a members-only suite catering to celebrities. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t interested in seeing what kind of bath such a room would have.
The commoner soul within me was set ablaze.
"…It’d be a bad idea for us to get in together, but would it be okay if I just took a look inside?"
"Only if we get in together."
"No, I mean, I didn't even bring a swimsuit…"
"Muu……"
Compared to when we first met, Hinako had developed a sense of modesty. It seemed that getting into the tub together without swimsuits was no longer an option for her.
With Ms. Shizune watching as well, there was no way I could say yes.
I was curious about the bath, but I decided to back down for now….
◆
A few days later.
I’d just returned from the beach when I was invited to Hinako’s room again.
"We ended up buying swimsuits, didn't we?"
"……Yeah."
I’d been cornered into a situation where I couldn't escape.
(Well, whatever. I was interested anyway.)
While the furnishings and decor were equal to or slightly less grand than those at the Konohana family manor, the view from this hotel was truly beautiful. There was no guarantee I’d ever be able to come here again, so my desire to experience it was strong.
"…Ms. Shizune, is this alright?"
"…Well, I suppose it is fine."
I thanked Ms. Shizune as she murmured, "It's nothing new, after all."
I stepped out of the room momentarily, and we both changed into our respective swimsuits.
The swimsuits we’d used at the ocean had been washed clean and were already perfectly dry. When the decision to go to the beach was made, it seemed several additional servants from the Konohana family had arrived to bolster Hinako’s security, and they must have handled the laundry as well.
Feeling grateful to them, I entered the bathroom with Hinako.
"Oh… So this is what they call a scenic bath."
It wasn't a hot spring, but the tub faced a massive window with a magnificent view. It was plenty spacious; even with both of us in there, it didn't feel cramped.
I’d already taken a quick shower at the beach a few hours ago, but my skin felt a bit sticky from the sea breeze during the barbecue afterward. I took another shower, lightly washed up, and then soaked in the tub.
"Phew."
"Phew."
We both let out a sigh at the same time.
"It's a great view."
"…Mm."
We lazily enjoyed the bath while taking in the hotel scenery that harmonized with the surrounding nature.
"Are you okay with your tan? Did you get burnt?"
"I might be a little."
Hinako said, looking down at her own body.
My gaze followed hers, but since it felt rude to stare, I quickly looked away.
"Fuwah……"
Hinako let out a yawn.
"Today really took it out of you, huh?"
"Mm. But it was fun."
I felt the same way.
The fatigue accumulated throughout the day dissolved into the hot water. All that remained was a sense of fulfillment.
It was proof of a day well spent. I would probably sleep well tonight.
"Playing your heart out at the sea is great, but spending time relaxing like this isn't bad either."
"Mm… It’s calming."
When we bathed together at the manor, I sometimes felt like I was doing something wrong and couldn't settle down, but here I was able to relax, fully immersed in the vacation atmosphere.
Playing in the surf, relishing the barbecue, and finally, lazily enjoying the bath.
What a luxurious day.
Life as a caretaker isn't so bad.…While inwardly thanking Hinako for giving me days like these, I gazed out at the peaceful night view.