I tilted my head, watching the faint blush creep across both their faces.
"Um, you two?"
"—Ah!"
The two of them snapped back to focus simultaneously.
"I understand," Mirei said. "If Tomonari-san is willing to go that far, then by all means, please support me."
"I’ve trusted Itsuki from the start, anyway," Narika added. "I was actually about to ask for your help myself."
Since they both gave their consent, I breathed a sigh of relief. Thank goodness. I hadn't been declared redundant...
"However," Mirei continued, "my concern is how Tomonari-san will be perceived by those around him. Since you’ll be part of two different camps, there’s a risk people will see you as a flip-flopper just chasing the Presidential Vote."
"I have a plan for that, but we can discuss the details later."
Class was about to start. Right on cue, the preliminary bell rang.
I recalled the mindset I’d maintained while doing consulting work in the Management Game. It was best to set the complicated discussions aside for now; the priority was to ensure everyone knew their immediate tasks.
"For the time being, your campaign activities will consist of handing out flyers and the speeches starting tomorrow. Have you already prepared your drafts?"
"Yes, though only a little..." Mirei admitted.
"I've started mine, but it’s nowhere near finished," Narika said.
It was exactly what I’d expected. Since they were both even busier than I was, their progress was sluggish. I had to take steps to make up for the time I’d lost while I was indecisive.
"I’ll help with the drafts. I want both of you to focus entirely on distributing flyers after school today. I think it’ll help bridge the distance between you and the student body if you hand them out yourselves."
As the two of them nodded with serious expressions, I continued my explanation.
"That said, I think it’ll be tough to do it alone, so I’ll introduce some people to help you. Also, you might already be aware, but please be careful—the areas where you’re allowed to distribute flyers are limited."
I planned to introduce Suminoe-san to Tennoji-san and Kita to Narika. Those two were diligent, and I figured they would work well with the candidates.
As I finished speaking, I noticed both of them looking at me with slight surprise.
"...You’re remarkably well-informed," Narika noted.
"Ugh." I felt a bit awkward at her blunt observation. "...Well, I was fully intent on helping out eventually, so I did my research."
As a result, I’d hammered every rule of the Student Council Election into my head. I’d rehearsed everything—not just the duties of a Vice President Candidate, but the strategies for a Presidential Candidate as well.
"Pfft."
"Fufu."
Mirei and Narika burst out laughing at the same time.
"It seems our worries were entirely misplaced," Mirei said.
"Yeah. Maybe I should have just relied on Itsuki from the very beginning."
Since I’d committed to supporting them, I was determined to live up to that trust.
Later, after we’d parted and I’d returned to my classroom, I thought back to the words Yuri had said a few days ago.
—Because, you can't choose what you can't choose, can you?
When pressed to choose between honing her skills at her family's place or becoming an exclusive chef at a world-class restaurant, Yuri had nonchalantly decided to take both.
That greed... I should learn from her.
After school.
Mirei and Narika focused on distributing flyers exactly as I’d suggested.
"I am Mirei Tennoji! I humbly ask for your vote!"
"I'm Narika Miyakojima! I’m counting on your support, everyone!"
After leaving the school building, the two girls took up positions at a distance from each other and began their work.
From what I could see, every single student heading home was accepting a flyer. Whether it was because the students of Kikou Academy were genuinely invested in the election, or simply a result of the two girls' personal prestige, I couldn't be sure. I couldn't rule out the possibility that people were merely being deferential to their family backgrounds, but as long as they worked diligently over the next thirteen days, the outcome wouldn't be decided by something so trivial.
The flyer distribution served two purposes. One was to publicize their campaign promises, much like the posters. The other was to advertise the speeches starting tomorrow.
"Starting tomorrow, I will be speaking twice a day—during lunch and after school! Please, everyone, I hope you’ll gather to listen!"
"I plan to discuss the details of my campaign promises during my speeches starting tomorrow! There’s so much I want to tell you all, so please come if you can!"
While handing out flyers, they informed the students of the scheduled times and locations. If they didn't get the word out now, no one would show up for the speeches, and the effort would be wasted.
(...I still haven't seen a sign of the third presidential candidate.)
Were they distributing flyers elsewhere? Or were they just observing today? Candidates were free to campaign however they wished, so it wasn't a problem, but the silence was a bit unsettling.
"Tennoji-sama is a noble soul befitting Kikou Academy! Please, give her your support!"
"Miyakojima-san is someone who doesn't fear change! Won't you entrust the future of the academy to her?"
Suminoe-san and Kita were also hard at work helping with the distribution. Kita had seemed unsure of himself when I first approached him, but he’d clearly found his resolve; he was now handing out flyers with frantic energy.
Sparks practically flew between Suminoe-san and Kita.
Then, Suminoe-san opened her mouth and let out a shout.
"Glory to Tennoji-sama!!"
Suminoe-san... please stop. That sounds like a cult initiation.
"Itsuki... should we stay a bit longer?"
"...No, let's head back."
I wanted to witness the flyer distribution battle—the opening skirmish of the campaign—until the end, but I had my own work to do. I could trust them to handle this; I had to stick to my own role.
One of them was going a bit overboard, but... ah, Tennoji-san was already moving to scold Suminoe-san.
Seeing Suminoe-san’s shoulders slump in dejection, I confirmed the rampage had been contained and returned to the Konohana manor.
"Now then."
Since I was exempt from my usual servant chores other than my duties as a caretaker during the election period, I immediately took the speech drafts out of my bag upon reaching my room.
As always, I had to be grateful to Shizune-san for her understanding. No one would have expected that a commoner caretaker like me, hired on a trial basis, would aim for a seat on the Student Council.
I began checking the drafts.
(...They’re both taking this very seriously.)
I felt like the "talent for seeing the data behind things" that Takuma-san mentioned was starting to manifest. I could feel the passion both girls had for the election through their writing. It was my job to refine that passion so it reached the audience with maximum impact.
Presidential candidates weren't allowed to give speeches whenever they liked. They were only permitted during lunch and after school. Time was tight during lunch, but there was more leeway after school, which allowed for more detailed presentations. It might be better to prepare two separate versions for each.
(This isn't so different from management.)
Just as Hinako had said during lunch, management and elections were worlds apart. And yet, my experience handling consulting for multiple firms in the Management Game was proving useful. In short, I just had to identify their respective strengths and help them grow.
The rule that you win by securing the most trust held true for both business and politics. In an election, companies were just replaced by people, and stocks were replaced by votes.
(...I'll have Hinako check these, just in case.)
I glanced toward Hinako, who was sprawling on the bed.
"Hinako, could you read through these drafts for me?"
"Nn... Leave it to me."
"Sorry, I know you're tired."
"It's fine... If it's for Itsuki, it's nothing."
Hinako stood up and padded over to me with small, tottering steps. She leaned over the desk to read the papers. Her amber hair brushed against my arm, feeling slightly ticklish.
"Here... you’re using too many numbers. It makes it hard to follow."
"...I see."
In an environment where I couldn't use charts or tables, reciting numbers orally probably wouldn't resonate with the crowd. Projects and other equipment were allowed for speeches, but the drafts I’d given Hinako were for the lunch break. The break was too short to mess around with projectors. Both candidates needed at least some time to rest, and dealing with technical glitches would be a nightmare.
"I assume you study presentations like this too?"
"Nn... because I might have to speak at shareholders' meetings in the future."
That was a scale of responsibility I could barely fathom. She felt so far away. I didn't think I could reach her level yet.
But I could finally see the path I needed to take. I just had to grow steadily, one step at a time. As the thought crossed my mind, my phone vibrated with a call.
"...It's Takuma-san."
"Ugeh..."
Hinako made a face of pure disgust and dove under her duvet. Does she really hate him that much?
"Hello, Itsuki-kun."
"Hello. Did something happen?"
"The election period started today, didn't it? I thought I’d offer some words of encouragement."
"Encouragement... is it?"
When he said it, it always felt like there was a hidden motive.
"Itsuki-kun, you're aiming for the Vice Presidency, aren't you?"
"Yes."
"And two of the presidential candidates are your friends. Knowing you, I imagine you've decided to serve as an advisor to both simultaneously."
"...Exactly."
As expected, he'd seen right through me. Putting aside his knowledge of my movements, I wondered how he already knew Mirei and Narika were the candidates. His information network was as baffling as ever.
"Well, if you're going to become an executive of the Konohana Group, I expect you to be capable of at least that much."
"...Um, this might be a bit late to ask, but is it actually possible to be both a Konohana Group executive and a consultant?"
"Perfectly possible. Ultimately, the world is a meritocracy. If you become an excellent consultant, you'll find it easy to enter any group, not just ours."
Ultimately, the world was a meritocracy.
I found myself agreeing with him. I used to think that luck—parents and family background—was the deciding factor, but after seeing the students of Kikou Academy and their constant striving, I’d realized those were just a tiny part of the equation. I wouldn't deny the role of luck, but it was also true that those with ability were the ones who could seize the opportunities that luck provided. The world was surprisingly generous to people with talent.
If Takuma-san said it was possible, then pursuing both goals shouldn't be a problem. However, one concern remained.
"But, as I thought during the last field trip, if I become an executive from the outside, won't I face resentment from the internal staff?"
"Hahaha... Good. Your questions are becoming much more specific."
Thanks to you, I thought. I remembered the Taiyo Construction shareholders' meeting. The upper management had been overtaken by the Suzuki Fund. I would see the full consequences of that soon enough, but I couldn't forget the terrified look on the face of Taiyo Construction’s president.
"There's no need to worry. I'll handle things like that," Takuma-san answered matter-of-factly.
I tilted my head. For all his praise of my specific question, his answer was incredibly abstract. It was almost evasive.
"This time, it will be a battle against your own workload even more than the Management Game was. I recommend relying on Hinako as necessary."
"On Hinako?"
"You should already know how high Hinako's practical abilities are. You should absorb everything you can from her—things you won't get from me."
I didn't want to burden Hinako too much, but as Takuma-san said, her practical skills were elite. I’d been envious of them for a long time. Since Hinako wouldn't be under as much scrutiny from others during the election, I’d try to seek her advice when she didn't seem too tired.
"By the way, Itsuki-kun. In the Management Game, a certain something was omitted. Do you know what it was?" he asked suddenly.
"...No."
"You should see it for yourself in the upcoming election. If you overcome it, you'll grow even further."
The call ended.
What was the answer to that last question? Leaving the doubt hanging, I set my phone on the desk.
"Itsuki..."
Hinako, who had been hiding under the duvet, poked her head out. "Itsuki... are you really aiming to become an executive of the Konohana Group?"
"Eh? Oh, had I not mentioned it?"
"...You hadn't."
Huh? Come to think of it, I guess I hadn't told her. I’d told Takuma-san first, and Mirei had figured it out during the first half of the Management Game, but I hadn't told anyone since then. Part of it was that it was embarrassing to say it out loud. It could be taken as if I were doing it all for Hinako, and I didn't want to sound so patronizing.
I was putting in the effort because it was what I wanted.
"D-Does that mean..." Hinako began, looking at me with a fidgety gaze. "Does that mean... you'll stay... with me... forever...?"
She asked with an upward glance.
Did she mean working together as an executive of the Konohana Group? Becoming an executive was my ultimate goal, so I hadn't thought much about what came after, but unless I were fired, I’d probably keep working there.
"...Well, I’d certainly be happy if that were the case."
When I answered, Hinako's face turned bright red, and she scrambled to leave the room.
"Hinako?"
"...I'm going back... to my room."
Hinako opened the door. A maid who happened to be cleaning the hallway turned toward us, so I didn't need to guide her back. I watched in silence as the door clicked shut.
I wonder what that was about?
Upon returning to her room, Hinako immediately collapsed face-down on her bed. She hugged her pillow tightly, replaying the conversation in her head.
"...Hehe."
She hadn't known Itsuki was aiming to become a Konohana Group executive. She’d known he had high ambitions. He’d told her he wanted to be on equal footing... that he wanted to stand by her side. But she hadn't expected his specific goal to be becoming an executive of the group she belonged to.
Not the Tennoji Group, not Shimax...
The goal Itsuki was aiming for was to be an executive of the Konohana Group, right where Hinako was. Moreover, he’d said he would stay with her forever.
This was...
(This is... basically a proposal!!)
Clutching her pillow, she fantasized about the two of them being showered with blessings at a grand wedding ceremony. She’d buy a wedding dress—an exceptionally beautiful one. The sooner they got married, the better. Maybe a student marriage?
In her fantasy wedding hall, she saw familiar faces. Mirei Tennoji, Narika Miyakojima, and Yuri Hirano. Everyone was applauding their union.
(I won... I'm Itsuki's number one! I really am the main heroine!)
Hinako was putting the terms she’d recently learned from shojo manga to good use. She squeezed her pillow with all her might. She’d just go to sleep like this today; she felt like she could have the most wonderful dream.
"Excuse me."
The moment she closed her eyes, Shizune entered the room. Shizune saw Hinako trying to sleep and spoke up.
"Young Lady, it is almost time for your studies."
"...I'm not doing them today."
"Master Kagen will be angry."
"It's fine. Papa should be at the main residence today."
Hinako had been diligently tracking her father's movements. Shizune let out a small sigh.
"If you're too lazy, Itsuki-san will be disappointed in you."
Lately, Shizune had been using Itsuki as a benchmark more often to motivate Hinako. It was extremely effective, and normally Hinako would have complied, but...
"Heh."
"...What is that face for?"
"Itsuki... chose me. I don't have to worry about that anymore..."
Faced with Hinako's smug smile, Shizune looked puzzled. "What exactly did he say to you?"
"...That he's aiming to become an executive of the Konohana Group."
That was something Shizune had also suspected. Back when the Management Game had just started, Itsuki had agonized over whether to start a business from scratch and had asked Shizune how one becomes a manager.
He’d chosen the path of an entrepreneur for the game, but his original goal had always been to lead a company. The game was just training for that purpose. After he’d started consulting, he’d prioritized large-scale firms, so it was clear Itsuki wanted to manage a major corporation in the future.
Logically, she’d assumed he wanted to be involved in the Konohana family’s business. It was a brave decision, and truly worthy of respect. Was he aiming for the Student Council for that very reason? Such heart-wrenching effort. She’d make sure to reward him, at least during the election.
However, in contrast to the moved Shizune... Hinako had a soft, melting expression on her face.
"Itsuki... said he'll stay with me forever..."
Shizune found it difficult to remain moved in this situation. Watching Hinako savoring her happiness in her own little world, Shizune gave a light cough.
"You mustn't let your guard down."
"...Nn-eh?"
Shizune glared sternly at the completely unguarded Hinako.
"Even if Itsuki-san feels that way, how the people around him act is a different matter. Through the Management Game, Itsuki-san has attracted attention from many people. Even if he temporarily becomes a Konohana Group executive, there is a distinct possibility he could be headhunted."
"H-Headhunted!?"
It was a very real possibility. Hinako’s composure immediately crumbled.
"Do you not have anyone in mind, Young Lady? Someone other than yourself who is targeting Itsuki-san."
"............................I do," Hinako answered in a small voice. "........................About four people."
"...That is quite a lot." Shizune put her hand to her forehead. That man was a hot commodity. "May I ask who you are thinking of?"
"...Hirano-san, Tennoji-san, Miyakojima-san....And Shizune."
"Pardon?" An unexpected name was mixed in. "Me?"
"Because, Shizune... you've been staring at Itsuki lately..."
Shizune realized what she meant. Ever since Itsuki had discovered her cosplay hobby, Shizune had been regularly warning him not to leak the secret. Whenever the topics of clothes or hobbies came up, she always gave Itsuki a sharp glare.
"Young Lady, that is..."
"That is...?"
"No, well..."
"Well?"
The tables had turned. Faced with Hinako's probing gaze, Shizune looked away.
"L-Let us get back on track."
"...She dodged it."
"I did not. I am merely preventing the conversation from derailing," Shizune insisted, then continued. "You should understand now, Young Lady. Itsuki-san is in high demand."
"Mu, gu..."
As Hinako fell silent, Shizune pressed on. "When Itsuki-san is offered positions by others, will he be able to maintain his loyalty while looking at how idle you are now? No. You must be prepared for the day he leaves you."
"...Nunu, nununu...!"
Against her better judgment, Hinako began to hallucinate. In her mind, the wedding had happened, and they were supposed to be living happily ever after. But that happiness must have made her soft.
Itsuki looked at her with cold, distant eyes.
『Sorry, Hinako. I... found a better boss to work for.』
『I-Itsukiii...!!』
Her entire body began to tremble.
"Itsukiii... don't go anywhere...!"
Watching the distraught Hinako, Shizune let out a sigh. In reality, there was no way that man would ever hurt Hinako like that. She’d intended to give her a little push to motivate her, but it had been more effective than expected. She reflected that she might have threatened her a bit too much.
However, she had to ensure the girl did what was necessary.
Once, Hinako had committed a breach of etiquette called the three-second rule at an important dinner. Itsuki had felt responsible and had been deeply depressed, but Shizune had regretted it just as much.
"Now, Young Lady. Let's work hard today as well."
The one by Hinako's side wasn't just Itsuki, her caretaker. When he gave her candy, Shizune was determined to be the whip.