As we made our way up the gentle slope, I called out to Olivia-san. Even through my back, I could feel the sheer weight of her apologies and humility.
"Olivia-san, you really don't need to be so formal. It's perfectly fine."
"N-No, but... To have Miyama Kaito-sama trekking up this hill while I loll about on your back... I believe it would be no exaggeration to call this a Once-in-a-1,000-years Crime."
"It’s an exaggeration. A massive one at that. I mean, we haven't known each other long, but do I really look like the type who would call this 'disrespectful'?"
"No, you do not."
"Then it’s not a problem at all. After all, I’m the one doing the carrying, and I don’t think it’s disrespectful in the slightest."
As the lover of Shiro-san, I could understand why someone in Olivia-san’s position would feel overwhelmed. But honestly, I didn't care about those formalities.
If only she could be a little more relaxed around me...
"……That is exactly why…… I am so uneasy."
"Hmm?"
"I am aware that we have not spent much time together, but even so... I believe I have come to understand that Miyama Kaito-sama is a truly kind person."
Olivia-san’s voice was laden with absolute sincerity. I remained silent, letting her continue.
"……I suspect that even if I were to truly commit an Act of lèse-majesté, you would simply offer a gentle smile and tell me it was nothing to worry about."
"……"
"And that is precisely what makes me so anxious. I worry that I might be causing you discomfort without even realizing it……"
"I see……"
When she put it that way, I could see her point. People are different; not everyone voices their discomfort or shows it in their attitude. It wasn't impossible for someone to be smiling while secretly being annoyed.
However, expecting someone to read all those hidden feelings was a tall order. It was best not to overthink it, but I suppose her earnest personality wouldn't let her do that.
"Olivia-san, since we've been together today, I haven't felt a single moment of discomfort or seen anything you've done as disrespectful. And I'm not just saying that to be nice."
"Miyama Kaito-sama……"
"Besides, people tell me all the time that my feelings are written all over my face. If I were actually bothered, you’d see it immediately…… Have I looked like that to you?"
"N-No."
"Then you're fine. It’s wonderful that you’re so considerate of others, but you shouldn't let it weigh you down. Moderation is key, after all."
"……"
Olivia-san fell silent for a moment, seemingly lost in thought. I didn't press her further; the only sound in the quiet air was the steady rhythm of my footsteps.
As we continued our ascent, a voice as soft as a whisper drifted into my ear.
"……If you were a more rigid man, someone who strictly enforced social boundaries…… perhaps I wouldn't have struggled so."
"……"
"But the person I have found is so gentle and warm…… You simply will not allow me to keep my composure."
Her voice was faint but distinct, her words woven with deep emotion. I could feel a whirlwind of confusion and hesitation within her, but beneath it all, a tender affection was beginning to take root.
"You wouldn't even need to frame it as a 'command'…… If you spoke firmly, I could never dream of disobeying…… And yet, both on the boat and now…… you deliberately emphasize your orders as if to provide me with a way out. You offer me a way to soothe the guilt in my heart, letting me tell myself that I only accept this because it is Miyama Kaito-sama’s command."
Olivia-san’s hands tightened their grip on my shoulders. She clung to me, her voice trembling with emotion.
"You are kind, but truly, you are a little bit mean…… You won't let me stay calm. Even though I know I shouldn't…… the moment I let my guard down, I find myself wanting to lean into that warmth."
"Isn't that fine? I spend my life leaning on and being helped by all sorts of people. If you’re willing to rely on me, then that makes me happy. I don't know how much I can really do for you, but I'm here."
"……Truly, you really are………… just a little bit mean."
Her murmur was incredibly soft. The emotion radiating from her felt like a warm, growing fondness.
I felt as though my words had finally reached her, perhaps giving her the push she needed to see things a little differently.
Serious-senpai: "I-Impossible!? Her Heroine Power is rising……!"