Chapter 2: Welcome to the Tennouji Household

Having received permission from Hinako to visit the Tennouji household, I quickly got the go-ahead from Shizune-san as well.

After school, I hopped into a car with Tennouji-san, heading toward the mansion where she supposedly lives her daily life.

“This is… Tennouji-san’s house…”

Like Hinako, Tennouji-san apparently spends most of her time at a secondary residence rather than the main estate, so I was guided to the secondary residence. But, just like with Hinako’s place, I couldn’t help but think this so-called secondary residence was an enormous mansion in its own right.

Still, its exterior was quite different from the Konohana household’s.

In a word, it was flashy. Beyond the grand gate stretched a magnificent garden, its vibrant, multicolored flowers striking even from a distance. Passersby would surely stop in their tracks at the sight. The gate and walls surrounding the mansion were adorned with intricate decorations, making me feel as if I were gazing at a work of art.

“Compared to the Konohana household, it’s a lot more… flashy, or rather, extravagant…”

The words slipped from my lips before I could stop them.

“You know the Konohana household?”

“Oh, uh, well… I’ve been there a few times to pay my respects, you know, because of my parents’ connections.”

“I see. That makes sense.”

I nearly let something slip.

The truth is, I don’t just visit the Konohana household—I live there every day. But I can’t let her figure that out.

The gate opened, and we made our way toward the mansion, surrounded by several servants.

The wide path was spotless, not a speck of dust in sight. It was meticulously maintained.

“Extravagantly, boldly—that’s the Tennouji family’s motto. Even at a secondary residence, that principle never wavers. This garden, for instance, is designed to look stunning even from outside the gate, you know?”

“…I definitely thought it was beautiful.”

When I said that, Tennouji-san flashed a delighted smile.

We stepped inside the mansion. As expected, the interior was just as extravagant. A luxurious red carpet lined the floors, and gold and silver decorations were scattered throughout. Yet, none of it felt overbearing—the lighting and placement were carefully calculated, blending seamlessly into the background.

It was like stepping onto a movie set.

“Oh, Mirei! You’re back!”

A man’s voice boomed from the second floor.

“Father, I’ve just returned.”

Tennouji-san announced, and I immediately straightened my posture.

A man descended the white spiral staircase. His slicked-back hair and distinguished goatee gave him a dapper, commanding presence. He was tall, broad-shouldered, and exuded strength.

As he approached, I felt a sudden wave of nerves.

“T-Tennouji-san’s… father?”

“Yes. When I mentioned I’d be inviting you over, Tomonari-san, he insisted on meeting you.”

I wasn’t mentally prepared for this. I scrambled to regain my composure.

Standing before Tennouji-san’s father, I bowed deeply.

“N-Nice to meet you. I’m Tomonari Izuki. Tennouji-san has been a great help to me at the academy.”

“Hmm. I’m Tennouji Masatsugu. Make yourself at home today, alright?”

His friendly tone eased my tension just a bit.

“Father, we’re not here to socialize. Tomonari-san is here for a study session.”

“Oh, right, right! Well then, study to your heart’s content!”

Masatsugu-san said with a bright grin.

But in the next moment, his eyes narrowed, and he leaned in to whisper.

“By the way, Tomonari-kun, what’s your relationship with my daughter?”

“Huh? Uh, well, we’re just fellow students at the academy…”

“Is that really all? Nothing suspicious going on? You know, like a boy-girl thing—”

“—Father!”

Tennouji-san’s sharp voice cut through.

“Honestly… We don’t have that kind of improper relationship.”

Blushing, Tennouji-san declared firmly, and Masatsugu-san nodded in agreement.

He might be more humorous than I expected. But I can’t let my guard down. Even Kagen-san seemed kind and daughter-obsessed at first, but he has a ruthless side. Masatsugu-san might be the same.

“Mirei, wasn’t it table manners you wanted to study?”

“Yes. If possible, I’d like to practice British-style dining etiquette.”

At her words, Masatsugu-san touched his chin thoughtfully.

“Alright… In that case, I’ll join you.”

He glanced at me as he spoke.

“…Huh?”

Honestly, just having a study session at the Tennouji household felt like a high hurdle.

And now I’m supposed to dine with the president of a nationally renowned corporation…?

At Masatsugu-san’s suggestion, I found myself invited to the Tennouji family’s dining table.

What was supposed to be a study session turned into a practical test. Despite my bewilderment, Tennouji-san was all for it. “Real practice is far more effective than rehearsal,” she said, leaving me no choice but to nod along.

Seven o’clock in the evening.

Having finished the British-style meal before me, I wiped my mouth with the inside of my napkin and placed my cutlery on the plate.

“Thank you for the meal.”

As I spoke, the tension I’d been holding onto loosened just a fraction.

Honestly, I didn’t have the mental space to savor the food. It was probably top-tier cuisine, but I was too focused on practicing proper manners and keeping my nerves hidden.

“…Hmm.”

Masatsugu-san, seated across from me, fixed his gaze on me.

“Not bad. You held your own. At the very least, I didn’t feel any discomfort dining with you.”

“Th-Thank you very much.”

I bowed my head at the praise.

“Father, aren’t you being a bit lenient? His movements while drinking the soup were still a tad awkward.”

Tennouji-san said this as she elegantly tilted her teacup to her lips.

Her graceful motions weren’t something I could easily mimic.

“True, he seemed a bit tense, but… well, that’s only natural when dining with someone like me! Haha!”

Masatsugu-san let out a hearty laugh.

His boisterous demeanor helped ease the tension in the air.

Thinking about it calmly, this might actually be a great opportunity.

Getting to talk with someone of such high status in the upper echelons of society is a rare experience. Konohana Kagen, the head of the Konohana household, is always busy at the main estate, so I rarely get to see him.

“Um… Is there any trick to not getting nervous in situations like this?”

Seizing the moment, I asked Masatsugu-san for advice.

“Hmm… Let me ask you this: Do you think anyone could stay calm in a situation like this?”

His question caught me off guard.

I couldn’t answer right away. At the very least, Masatsugu-san hadn’t shown any signs of nervousness during the meal…

“You probably asked me that because I seemed like someone who’s never nervous, right?”

“Wha—!? N-No, that’s not what I meant…”

“Be honest now.”

“…Well, maybe a little.”

“Hahaha! I like your honesty!”

Masatsugu-san laughed heartily.

I wasn’t trying to mock him. On the contrary, I asked because I admired his confident demeanor.

“It’s true—I’m pretty much immune to nervousness. I can maintain this attitude with anyone.”

“Anyone…?”

“Yup. Even in front of the prime minister, I wouldn’t waver.”

The mention of the prime minister shocked me inwardly. But for the head of the Tennouji Group, it’s probably not surprising. He’s likely in a position to casually dine with someone of that caliber.

Still, keeping that composure even with the prime minister? That’s impressive.

He wasn’t joking. Masatsugu-san said it as if it were the most natural thing.

“But that’s just how I am now.”

He added a caveat.

“No one starts out like this. Even I struggled when I was younger. It took years of building achievements to become who I am today.”

His eyes, filled with resolve, locked onto mine.

“Build your track record. Take action. It doesn’t matter if you fail. What supports you in critical moments is the sum of your past efforts.”

His words carried a commanding weight.

“You must have at least one thing, right? Something you accomplished with unwavering conviction.”

His question brought me back to an event from about two weeks ago.

When I was dismissed as Hinako’s caretaker and nearly separated from her, I infiltrated the Konohana household, determined to stand by her side again. That drive was nothing short of conviction.

“—Yes.”

To my own surprise, I answered with confidence.

Seeing my response, Masatsugu-san nodded approvingly.

“Good. That’s a strong look in your eyes. That experience will become your core. Keep building on it.”

As Masatsugu-san wrapped up, the servants nearby began clearing the table.

Somehow, I felt I’d glimpsed his greatness.

Unlike Kagen-san, he doesn’t exude a solemn aura. But that’s not because he can’t—it’s because he doesn’t need to.

Masatsugu-san believes no one would dare betray him, not out of fear, but because he’s earned that trust through his relentless efforts.

He doesn’t expect sincerity from others. He’s made it so sincerity is their only option, backed by the trust he has in his own past.

“Hm?”

A sudden clap of thunder rang out nearby.

Masatsugu-san let out a small sound and glanced at the window. I followed his gaze outside.

“Rain? When did it start…?”

“It began around the time we started eating. You were too nervous to notice, Tomonari-san.”

Tennouji-san said with an exasperated tone.

She was right—I hadn’t noticed at all.

“There’s a heavy rain warning. The morning news said it’d be light, but…”

Masatsugu-san said, checking his tablet.

“Father…”

“Right. That’s probably best.”

Tennouji-san and Masatsugu-san exchanged a knowing glance.

Placing the tablet on the table, Masatsugu-san turned to me.

“Tomonari-kun, stay the night.”

“…Huh?”

The sudden suggestion caught me off guard, and I couldn’t help but ask again.

“Stay the night… Is that okay?”

“Of course. It’d be rude to send a guest out in this weather.”

Tennouji-san said matter-of-factly.

I couldn’t argue with that logic, but still…

“…Excuse me, let me check on something.”

I stepped away and called Shizune-san.

“Yes? What’s the matter?”

She picked up immediately.

“Well, actually—”

I explained that Tennouji-san had suggested I stay over due to the weather.

“I see. Well, with this rain, it’s not unexpected.”

The original plan was for Shizune-san to pick me up after the study session, but Tennouji-san likely didn’t want to trouble her with driving in this downpour.

“Fortunately, tomorrow’s a holiday, so there’s no scheduling issue. But that means Ojou-sama…”

Shizune-san trailed off.

“Is something up with Hinako?”

“…It’s not hard to imagine she’ll be incredibly upset.”

Come to think of it, during lunch today, Hinako had asked nervously, “Are you staying over?” Even though this is an emergency, I promised I’d be back tonight, and breaking that promise makes me feel guilty.

“I’m not sure if this will cheer Hinako up, but…”

I prefaced before making a suggestion to Shizune-san.

“Today, I got a sort of… seal of approval on my table manners from Tennouji-san’s father, Masatsugu-san. So, if you could arrange things as planned for tomorrow…”

“…Understood. I’ll make the preparations.”

We wrapped up a quick discussion.

Shizune-san’s efficiency with communication is always appreciated.

“In any case, there’s no issue with you staying over. Just don’t make any missteps.”

“Got it.”

With that, I ended the call with Shizune-san.

I returned to the dining table where Tennouji-san and her father were waiting.

“Sorry for the wait. It seems fine, so I’ll be staying over tonight. Thank you.”

“Great! Let’s get a guest room ready!”

Masatsugu-san said enthusiastically, and a nearby servant quickly moved to prepare my room.

“I’ve got some work to attend to. Make yourself at home, Tomonari-kun.”

“Yes, thank you very much.”

I thanked Masatsugu-san sincerely as he stood to leave.

Today was a valuable experience. I’ll make sure to apply the advice he gave me moving forward.

“Tomonari-san, I’ll show you to the guest room.”

Tennouji-san led me to my room.

As expected of the Tennouji household, even the hallways leading to the guest rooms were dripping with opulence.

“This will be your room, Tomonari-san.”

Tennouji-san opened the door.

Beyond it was a spacious twelve-mat room with a TV and sofa. It was already more than I could need, but apparently, there was a separate bedroom further inside.

“It’s… huge.”

“Is it? I thought this was fairly standard.”

Tennouji-san said, looking puzzled.

Thinking about it, while I live at the Konohana household, I use a room meant for servants. The guest rooms there are probably just as grand.

“Oh, and there are clothes in that closet for you to change into when you use the grand bath.”

“Grand bath…? Wait, I can use it?”

“Of course. In fact, I insist you do. It’s the pride of our household.”

Tennouji-san said proudly, puffing out her chest.

If she’s that confident, I’ll have to give it a try.

“I’ll be heading to the bath myself. If you need anything, just ask one of the servants nearby.”

“Got it.”

Tennouji-san left the room.

As the door closed, I let out a small sigh.

“…What a day. Full of surprises.”

Technically, I’m staying over at a girl’s house, but the sheer scale of the place makes it hard to feel that way. Of course, it’s nerve-wracking in a different sense.

“Still, I gained something from this.”

Hearing Masatsugu-san’s insightful words was a big win.

And considering I’ll continue working as Hinako’s caretaker, I’ll likely get invited to other households like this in the future. This could serve as good practice.

“…Guess I’ll hit the bath.”

I could use some relaxation.

I decided to take my time in the bath Tennouji-san had boasted about.

Grabbing a bathrobe from the room, I was guided to the grand bath by a servant waiting nearby. I undressed in the changing area and opened the bath door with a hint of excitement.

“Whoa… Yeah, I can see why they’d brag about this.”

The Tennouji household’s grand bath was stunning, far too extravagant for a secondary residence.

There were two massive bath areas, each as big as a school pool, plus an open-air bath. I’d half-expected the faucets to be shaped like golden lions, but they were even larger and more eye-catching than I’d imagined.

“The ceiling… it’s so high.”

Steam gathered near the ceiling like clouds.

Taking in the unusual sight, I washed myself lightly before slipping into the bath.

“Haa… This is heaven.”

Not that I was dead or anything.

Being alone, I couldn’t help but mutter the cliché.

Come to think of it, this is the first time in a while I’ve bathed alone. Since becoming Hinako’s caretaker, I’ve always bathed with her, so today feels oddly calm.

Taking a bath alone leisurely isn’t bad at all.

It’s not bad, but I can’t help feeling a bit lonely somehow. Despite everything, I might’ve been finding comfort in being with Hinako after all.

“…Oh?”

At that moment, a woman’s voice came from behind me.

It was so unexpected that I froze on the spot. When I looked toward the voice, I noticed a figure standing amidst the steam.

“N-no way… Tennouji-san?”

“Yes, Tennouji here.”

The response came in a remarkably calm tone.

But it wasn’t the voice of the Tennouji-san I knew. It was similar, yet subtly different. The way she spoke felt unlike her usual manner, too.

Someone approached through the steam.

That person was—a young woman with chestnut hair tied back. Her flushed cheeks, tinged red from the heat, and the water droplets glistening on her smooth skin made me instinctively avert my gaze.

Yet, this woman didn’t scream or flee the scene. On the contrary, she came even closer.

“My, my, to meet like this in a place like this. Heehee, what an amusing first encounter, don’t you think?”

Exuding a gentle aura, the woman covered her mouth with her hand and smiled.

“You must be Tomonari-san. …Nice to meet you. I’m Tennouji Hanami, Mirei’s mother. Thank you for always looking after my daughter.”

“Ah… I’m Tomonari Izuki. Likewise, I’m always grateful for Tennouji… Mirei-san’s help.”

“Oh my, such a polite young man~”

While I stood there stiffly, Hanami-san beamed with an impressed expression.

For a classmate’s mother, she looked astonishingly young. She could easily pass for someone in her early twenties. Since she was in the bath, she was likely barefaced, without any makeup. To look like this even then—honestly, it was hard to believe she was Tennouji-san’s mother.

“Mirei’s always telling me how studious you are, Tomonari-san. Feel free to use anything in this mansion, not just the guest room.”

“Th-thank you very much…”

Her praise made me bow my head reflexively.

Finally, I snapped back to my senses.

“—Wait! More importantly! I’m pretty sure this is the men’s bath!!”

“Oh? Is that so?”

Hanami-san tilted her head nonchalantly.

How could this woman remain so calm in front of a naked guy?

“I believe it is.”

“Oh dear, that’s quite a pickle, isn’t it?”

I’m the one in a bigger pickle here.

I’m just a guest, but this woman, who should know the house well, mistaking the men’s and women’s baths? It almost made me question if I was the one in the wrong.

“Since we’re here, why don’t we just bathe together~?”

“Huh!?”

My head started spinning.

I couldn’t gauge her sense of distance. Could she possibly see me as a kid, like an elementary schooler or something?

“Tomonari-san?”

While I was reeling, a girl’s voice came from the other side of the wall.

“That voice… Tennouji-san?”

“Yes, it’s me.”

Tennouji-san (the real one)!

Thank goodness. If it’s her, she might be able to sort out this mess.

“What’s going on? It sounded awfully noisy…”

Apparently, the women’s bath was on the other side of the wall.

Hearing Tennouji-san’s concerned voice, I tried to explain while avoiding looking at Hanami-san as much as possible.

“Well, actually—”

“—Oh, Mirei, you’re over there?”

Hanami-san spoke up before I could explain.

For a split second, it felt like time froze. Tennouji-san, on the other side of the wall, fell silent. The only sound was the loud drip, drip of water droplets.

“M-Mother!? Why are you over there—!?”

Tennouji-san, seemingly rebooting, shouted loudly.

“Sorry, Mirei~ I must’ve gotten it wrong again.”

“Th-this time, it’s no joking matter! Please leave immediately! I-I can’t let a male classmate see my mother naked—that’d be a black mark on my history!!”

Yeah, I can understand that…

“Aww, but since we’re here, I’d love to chat with Tomonari-san~”

“Mother!!”

“Why don’t you just come over here, Mirei?”

“Mother!?”

“Tomonari-san’s got quite a nice build, you know?”

Tennouji-san stopped responding.

After a brief pause, frantic footsteps echoed from the changing room—

“—Mother!!”

With a loud bang, Tennouji-san flung open the door to the men’s bath.

I turned toward her—and immediately looked away.

Tennouji-san was wrapped in nothing but a bath towel. Unlike Hinako, Tennouji-san’s well-developed figure made the towel look precarious, and I couldn’t bear to look directly. Plus, fresh from the bath, her hair was down, giving her an oddly mature vibe that almost mesmerized me.

“C-come on! We’re leaving right now! M-Mother, you’re a lady, so please have a bit more modesty!!”

“Yes, yes, fine, fine.”

With that, Hanami-san stood up.

Just as I was about to close my eyes, I caught a glimpse at the edge of my vision—Hanami-san wasn’t naked.

“A… swimsuit…?”

“I was swimming in the pool earlier, so I came straight to the bath~ Even I’d be embarrassed naked, you know?”

Hanami-san offered a belated explanation to a stunned Tennouji-san.

Um, even if you’re in a swimsuit, I’m still naked here…

“More importantly, Mirei… shouldn’t you be the one showing a bit more modesty?”

Hanami-san glanced at Tennouji-san as she spoke.

In her panic, Tennouji-san hadn’t realized her own state. Looking down and seeing she was clad only in a towel, her face turned beet red—

“Hiiiyaaaaaaa—!?”

Tennouji-san’s scream echoed through the spacious bath.

With even louder footsteps than when she arrived, she bolted away.

“My, my, so noisy.”

“…I think more than half of this is your fault.”

I let out a deep sigh at Hanami-san, who was smiling as if enjoying herself.

“By the way, Tomonari-san.”

Suddenly, Hanami-san looked at me with a serious expression.

Even in a swimsuit, her appearance was stimulating for a healthy teenage boy. I faced her but slightly averted my gaze as I listened.

“Is Mirei enjoying herself at the Academy?”

The question, delivered in a serious tone, was about Tennouji-san.

As a mother, she must be concerned about her daughter. Perhaps Hanami-san had wanted to ask me this all along.

I thought back to Tennouji-san at the Academy… and nodded firmly.

“Yes. Tennouji-san is always confident, tackling everything head-on… I’m sure she’s enjoying every day.”

“…Good. That’s a relief.”

Hanami-san gave a gentle smile.

Her expression seemed genuinely relieved, from the bottom of her heart.

After the commotion in the bath, I returned to the guest room and studied.

“…Alright, that’s today’s quota done.”

I finished the preview and review assignments Shizune-san had given me. Lately, since Tennouji-san has been tutoring me too, Shizune-san’s quotas have been a bit lighter. Still, they require focus, or I’d end up spending hours on them, so I can’t let my guard down.

“…Maybe I’ll push a bit more.”

Perhaps because I was studying in a different environment, I was unusually focused. A mild tension seemed to keep laziness and sleepiness at bay.

With renewed determination, I flipped open my textbook.

Just then, there was a knock at the door.

“Pardon me.”

Tennouji-san appeared at the open door, dressed in casual loungewear.

“Tennouji-san?”

“I brewed some herbal tea. Would you like to join me?”

Tennouji-san said, holding a tray.

I took the closer of the two cups on the tray.

“Thank you.”

The steam rising from the cup brushed my nose.

It had a calming aroma.

“You really are diligent, aren’t you?”

Tennouji-san murmured, glancing at the study materials spread across the desk.

“Diligence is a bit much… It’s just that I’m used to this schedule, so I feel restless if I’m not studying.”

“…You truly need achievements.”

After sipping her tea, Tennouji-san spoke.

“You’re working so hard, yet you still lack confidence because you haven’t achieved results you’re satisfied with. …For next month’s proficiency test, you absolutely must rank near the top.”

“I-I’ll do my best.”

Masatsugu-san had just told me I needed accomplishments too. Indeed, placing high at Kiou Academy would be an achievement to be proud of.

Feeling motivated, I also felt a deep respect for Tennouji-san.

She must always act with that kind of mindset. Her usual confident demeanor wasn’t born from nothing. Her past efforts shaped her everyday attitude.

Thinking this, I looked at Tennouji-san again… and noticed something different.

“Is something wrong?”

“No, it’s just… this is the first time I’ve seen you with your hair down.”

“Come to think of it, you’re right. I rarely let it down at the Academy… and I’m fresh from the bath now.”

I’d actually seen her with her hair down when she rushed into the bath earlier, but given her state then, I’d quickly looked away.

Looking closely now, Tennouji-san with her hair down felt more mature. Unlike her usual bold, strong-willed vibe, she gave off an intellectual impression. The contrast was oddly captivating, and I couldn’t help but stare.

“Aha~ Could it be… you’re smitten with me?”

Tennouji-san grinned mischievously.

She hit the nail on the head, and I fumbled for words. I wanted to deny it, but it was too late.

“…Unlike you, I’m not used to situations like this.”

I looked away, muttering something like an excuse.

“…I’m the same, you know.”

Tennouji-san said softly.

“Earlier, I was just putting on a brave face. …Even I get a bit flustered. This is my first time having a guy stay over… a-and with the bath incident, too.”

Her cheeks flushed as she spoke.

Seeing her act so shy and maidenly, unlike her usual poised demeanor, I unconsciously swallowed hard.

—This is bad.

The atmosphere had turned incredibly awkward.

An inexplicable tension surged. It was even more unsettling than when I’d eaten with Masatsugu-san hours ago.

My mind went blank, and then I noticed the herbal tea on the desk.

I’ll drink this to calm down. With that thought, I tilted the cup to my lips—

“Hot—!?”

In my haste to drink, a burning pain shot through my tongue.

“A-are you alright!?”

Tennouji-san hurriedly showed concern.

It wasn’t bad enough to burn me seriously. My tongue felt numb, so I tried to convey “I’m fine” with my eyes, only to lock gazes with Tennouji-san.

Seeing each other’s wide-eyed expressions, we both burst out laughing.

The awkward air had dissipated without us noticing.

“Honestly… it’s been a while since I felt like this.”

Tennouji-san said with a smile.

“Thinking back, you’ve been stirring up my heart since we met. Knowing the Konohana Group but not the Tennouji Group… a-and saying nonsense like my hair being dyed.”

“Well, I still wonder about that.”

“Be quiet.”

She shut me down sharply, and I closed my mouth.

Neither Masatsugu-san nor Hanami-san had blonde hair. Considering typical Japanese traits, it’s likely Tennouji-san dyes hers.

“I don’t often get the chance to say this, so I’ll say it now… I’m grateful for you. Since meeting you, my school life has become so much richer with tea parties and study sessions.”

Her voice carried genuine gratitude.

With a captivating smile, Tennouji-san continued.

“Plus, you’re tougher than you look, so being with you boosts my motivation. …If you can score in the single-digit ranks on the next proficiency test, I’ll scout you as my right-hand man after graduation.”

“That’s… probably a long shot.”

“If you’re already being timid, it really will be.”

Tennouji-san teased with a wry smile.

“But working with you does sound fun.”

Voicing that thought, Tennouji-san’s eyes widened.

“R-really?”

“Yeah. Thanks to you, studying’s been fun lately, so I think working together would be great too.”

I haven’t thought much about the future, but working under Tennouji-san would probably be fulfilling. With my extensive part-time job experience, I can tell—she’d be a great boss.

“Hehe…! That’s right! That’s right! Follow me, and I’ll guarantee a fulfilling life!”

Tennouji-san puffed out her chest proudly.

She must’ve been thrilled—her cheeks were slightly flushed, and her eyes sparkled.

“W-well, realistically, for you to work under me, you’d need to pass the Tennouji Group’s hiring exam… N-no, but if you could get a recommendation from Kiou Academy… O-or perhaps, if you became my fiancé, a secretary position would be guaranteed…”

“Fiancé?”

“N-n-n-nothing! I just got a bit ahead of myself!!”

I tilted my head at Tennouji-san’s flustered reaction.

“…Oh, I’ve stayed too long.”

Tennouji-san muttered, glancing at the clock.

“Let’s decide on our slogan before I go!”

“Slogan?”

“Yes. Since ancient times, armies have used rallying cries to boost morale during battles. Things like ‘Ei! Ei! Oh!’ or ‘The enemy is at Honnouji!’ are famous.”

“Got it. So we’re making one of those.”

Tennouji-san saying Ei! Ei! Oh! was kinda cute.

“Follow my lead.”

I nodded, and Tennouji-san opened her eyes wide, declaring our slogan.

“Defeat Konohana Hinako!!”

“Defeat Konohana—wait, what!?”

“What’s wrong?”

“No, I mean… that’s our slogan?”

“Yes! It’s perfect for us, don’t you think?”

If I said that out loud, I’d probably get fired from my current job…

But there’s no helping it. I can’t explain the situation, so I’ll just have to go along.

“Here we go.”

Tennouji-san took a deep breath.

“Defeat Konohana Hinako!!”

“D-Defeat Konohana Hinako!!”

Sorry, Hinako.

The next morning, after breakfast at the Tennouji residence, I was picked up outside the mansion by a sleek black car.

“Thank you for your hospitality.”

I bowed deeply to Masatsugu-san and Tennouji-san, who had come out to see me off. Hanami-san had work and couldn’t join, but we’d exchanged brief greetings before I left the mansion.

“Come back anytime.”

“Indeed! We’ll be waiting!”

With their farewells, I got into the car.

Naturally, this car was arranged by the Konohana family. Tennouji-san and the others likely thought I was heading home, but in reality, I was going to the Konohana family’s villa, where Hinako and Shizune-san were.

The driver announced, “We’re off,” and the car started moving.

Shizune-san didn’t come along this time, as there’s a chance Tennouji-san might recognize her as a maid of the Konohana household.

Still… what a fulfilling day it was.

I’ll have to thank Tennouji-san again later. Gazing at the scenery outside the window, I made a mental note.

After seeing the guest off as they left the estate by car, Masatsugu turned to Mirei.

“Mirei. Are you close with him?”

“Yes. We may be in different classes, but we have a deep connection.”

To her father’s question, Mirei gave an affirmative nod.

“Besides… I owe Tomonari-san a great deal.”

Mirei’s thoughts drifted to the events of last month.

The Tennouji family’s influence is immense. Because of this, Mirei was often respected at the academy, but she rarely had the chance to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with others and chat as equals.

It was Izuki who changed that. He invited her to tea parties and study sessions. What’s more, despite viewing her as a rival, he also gave her opportunities to connect with Konohana Hinako, someone she’d hoped to get closer to.

The recent study sessions were sparked by Izuki’s initiative as well.

Thanks to those study sessions, Mirei’s grades improved, and she made close friends. Though Izuki now acts like he’s at her mercy, deep down, Mirei feels immense gratitude toward him.

And then—

Working with Tennouji-san sounds like it could be fun, doesn’t it?

She never expected him to say something that would make her so happy.

Despite her confident exterior, Mirei isn’t entirely free of anxieties about the future. Her competitive streak with Hinako stems from a fear that losing to her at the academy might mean losing in the future as well.

That’s why Izuki’s words last night meant so much to her.

While maintaining her dignified demeanor, Izuki had found and soothed the anxieties she kept buried deep in her heart.

(If I’m with Tomonari-san… I feel like I could overcome any challenge.)

As Mirei lost herself in thought,

Masatsugu let out a soft “Hmm” while stroking his chin beard with his fingers.

“Is it a romantic relationship?”

“Wha—!? N-no, it’s not that kind of improper relationship!!”

Mirei’s face flushed bright red as she vehemently denied it.

Thinking her father had thrown out a sudden joke, Mirei pouted with a huff, “Honestly!” but—

“Hmm… Good, then.”

Masatsugu nodded with a serious expression.

“Actually, there’s something I’d like to discuss with you, Mirei. It might be time to start considering a fiancé for you.”

The proposal came out of nowhere.

Mirei’s eyes widened as she echoed, “A… fiancé?”

“Yes. I’ve been thinking about it for a while but felt it was too soon to bring up. However, I recently had a conversation with a representative of the Konohana family at a social event. The topic of their daughter’s engagement came up, and it seems they’re actively pursuing it. Apparently, it’s a measure to keep undesirable suitors at bay.”

With a grave expression, Masatsugu continued.

“In the future, many will likely approach you, seeking the Tennouji family’s influence. Some, of course, may have malicious intentions. Considering that, the Konohana family’s reasoning makes sense. Personally, I still think it’s a bit premature… but if you’re open to it, I see no issue.”

It didn’t seem like he was announcing a finalized engagement.

As the daughter raised to uphold the Tennouji Group’s legacy, Mirei had always known she’d eventually be engaged to someone. But she’d thought that was further down the line.

More importantly, though, the timing wasn’t what mattered to her.

What mattered was—

“Would it… benefit the Tennouji family?”

For some reason, her voice trembled.

As if to drown out that frail tone, Mirei asked her father again.

“If I were to get engaged, would it contribute to the Tennouji family?”

“…Well, it would certainly make planning easier.”

For the upper class, an engagement is a tool to strengthen existing connections. If she were engaged to the heir of a company they’re close with, future dealings would likely proceed even more smoothly. When the other party is practically family, the risk of corporate discord is easier to avoid, paving the way for large-scale deals like acquisitions or mergers.

“In that case, of course—”

Mirei, as always,

flashed a bold, unclouded smile as she responded.

“—I accept.”

“Welcome back.”

Upon arriving at the Konohana estate, I was greeted by Shizune-san.

“I’m back… Sorry about yesterday, staying out so suddenly.”

“That’s already water under the bridge. The past is less important than the present issue.”

The present issue?

It sounded like we were facing some kind of problem right now…

“Please cheer up Ojou-sama at once. She’s absolutely furious.”

“…Furious?”

I tilted my head at Shizune-san’s troubled expression.

I’d thought she might be in a bad mood, but to think she was that angry. Still, it’s hard to picture Hinako being furious. Knowing her, I doubt she’d throw a tantrum or anything…

I headed to Hinako’s room and took a deep breath in front of the door.

Then I knocked.

“Hinako, can I come in?”

“…Mm.”

An unmistakably grumpy voice came from the other side.

She was definitely in a bad mood. Cautiously, I opened the door.

Hinako was sprawled on her bed, wrapped up in a blanket.

As I stepped inside, her body shifted slightly under the covers.

“…Welcome back, Izuki.”

“Y-yeah, I’m ho—”

“Liar Izuki.”

Cutting me off, Hinako’s words hit like a jab.

Seeing her angry for the first time, I froze, mouth half-open.

“You said it’d be a day trip…”

“W-well, that was, uh… an emergency, you could say…”

“…You came back in the morning.”

Hinako glared at me.

“…In the morning.”

“Okay, yeah, if you put it like that, it was a morning return, but…”

That phrasing could lead to some weird misunderstandings, so I’d rather she didn’t use it.

Maybe I should explain the situation properly to show my sincerity.

“So, uh, here’s the deal. I really did plan on it being a day trip. But last night, the weather suddenly turned bad… You heard the thunder, right, Hinako? So staying at Tennouji-san’s place was kind of unavoidable…”

As I explained, sweating bullets, Hinako kept glaring at me in silence.

Her expression was even harder to read than usual.

“D-do you get it…?”

“…Mm.”

Hinako gave a small nod.

“Going on and on with excuses… Well done.”

Nope.

She’s definitely furious.

“…Come here.”

“Huh?”

“…Come over here.”

With a sulky look, Hinako patted the bed beside her, signaling me to sit.

As I approached, she suddenly buried her face in my chest.

“H-hey, Hinako?”

“…Smell.”

Hinako muttered softly.

“It’s not Izuki’s smell… It’s unsettling.”

My smell? What’s that supposed to mean…

Come to think of it, when we first met, she said I had a “nice smell.” Maybe Hinako’s got a sharp sense of smell or something.

“You ate with Tennouji-san…?”

“…Well, yeah.”

“You bathed at Tennouji-san’s house…?”

“…Yeah, I did.”

Eating and bathing were natural since I stayed over.

“You bathed with Tennouji-san…?”

“No, obviously I didn’t—!”

The moment I started to deny it, an image of Tennouji-san in just a bath towel flashed in my mind.

“—Guh.”

I let out a small sound.

“…Huh?”

“N-no, it’s…”

“What was that just now…?”

No use. There’s no dodging this.

I came clean about the whole bathroom fiasco.

“Mrr…! Mrrrr…!!”

As expected, Hinako’s face turned beet red with anger.

“You said you wouldn’t…!”

“It was an accident! An accident! It’s not like we bathed together, more like we just happened to be in the same place!”

I thought I explained it well, but Hinako still wasn’t convinced.

“Eating with Tennouji-san, bathing with Tennouji-san… You’re doing the same things you do with me…! Is Izuki… Tennouji-san’s caretaker now…!?”

“No, that’s not it! I’m your caretaker, Hinako!”

For starters, I’m not doing the same things with Tennouji-san as I do with Hinako.

Sure, we ate together, but I didn’t feed Tennouji-san like I do Hinako. And yeah, we ended up in the bath situation, but I didn’t wash Tennouji-san’s hair like I do for Hinako.

“Then…!”

Hinako grabbed my sleeve and pulled me closer.

“Then… Izuki should stay by my side more than anyone else’s…”

Her sudden shift to a meek demeanor threw me off a little.

I must’ve made her anxious. Did she think I’d leave her to work for Tennouji-san or something? As if that’d ever happen.

“It’s fine. I get it.”

“…You don’t get it, or I wouldn’t have to say it.”

“No, I get it.”

Right after I said that clearly, the door swung open.

“Pardon the intrusion. Ojou-sama, lunch is ready.”

“…Mm.”

Shizune-san gave a polite bow as she announced.

Even grumpy Hinako couldn’t resist hunger, it seemed, as she slowly slid off the bed and headed to the dining room.

When Hinako reached the dining room, a servant promptly pulled out her chair. She sat down with practiced ease, placing a napkin on her lap.

Watching the scene unfold—I pulled out the chair across from her.

“Mind if I sit here?”

“…Izuki?”

Hinako’s eyes widened as she noticed I’d followed her to the dining room.

She’d always eaten alone before, so seeing me here during lunchtime, of all times, must’ve shocked her.

“Today, Izuki-san will be joining you for the meal.”

At Shizune-san’s words, Hinako’s eyes grew even wider.

Shizune-san glanced at me, signaling it was my turn to explain.

“The deal was I couldn’t eat with you until I mastered table manners. So, I had Tennouji-san teach me. I managed to pull it off, so today I can finally eat with you.”

As I explained, Shizune-san nodded and added.

“For good measure, I’ll be observing Izuki-san’s manners one last time. Today’s lunch is closer to a dinner menu. If there are no issues, you’ll be free to join Ojou-sama for both lunch and dinner going forward.”

In other words, this was the final test.

From what I could see, lunch was Italian. Multiple dishes suggested it leaned toward a dinner-style menu, though not as elaborate as a full course.

Even if Hinako’s the heiress of the Konohana Group, she doesn’t eat full-course meals every day. Still, there are minimum standards of etiquette to uphold.

Shizune-san fixed me with a silent stare.

Got it—I won’t let my guard down.

I sat from the left side of the chair. A napkin was placed on the table.

I folded it in half, then laid it on my lap with the fold facing me. When wiping my mouth, I’d use the inner side, as per etiquette. The key is to avoid using a personal handkerchief or tissue, as that’d be a breach of manners. Using your own instead of the provided napkin implies, “I don’t want to use this one.”

Cutlery is used from the outside in. On the right were two knives and two spoons; on the left, three forks. The order: appetizer, soup, fish, meat. No fork on the right meant no pasta today.

I held the knife and fork gently, careful not to make noise while using them.

After eating the carpaccio appetizer, I quietly sipped the soup. Soup is scooped with a spoon, never drunk directly from the cup. Tilting the cup slightly to scoop the last bit is fine, though.

As I took a bite of the seasonal sea bream grill, Shizune-san gave a small nod and looked away.

Did I… pass?

Letting out a soft sigh of relief, I noticed Hinako staring at me with wide eyes from across the table.

“Izuki… You’ve grown so much…”

“Well, I worked hard.”

Thinking back, what I lacked was probably confidence.

Masatsugu-san said he didn’t feel any discomfort dining with me.

That meant I already had the bare minimum knowledge back then.

But I was still nervous, second-guessing myself the whole time, because I lacked confidence.

The final piece to mastering etiquette was—confidence.

“If it’s okay with you, Hinako, I’d like to eat together as often as possible from now on. That cool?”

Saying something so sappy out loud felt oddly embarrassing.

If she rejected me now, it’d be the darkest stain on my life, no question—but that fear turned out to be baseless.

“…Mm!”

Hinako beamed with a radiant smile.

Looks like her mood’s finally lifted.

“Then… from now on, it’s ‘casual mode’ for you too, Izuki…”

“Huh?”

Tilting my head at her words, I saw Hinako slump dramatically.

“Phew…”

She propped her chin on the table, letting out a lazy sigh.

“Uh, Shizune-san? Aren’t we supposed to follow table manners during meals…?”

“There’s no such rule. However, since Kagen-sama occasionally dines here, if your manners are lacking, it could leave a poor impression.”

So that’s why.

It seems Shizune-san had me learn table manners to ensure I wouldn’t look bad in front of Kagen-san.

She was looking out for my position all along.

“Izuki… Over here.”

Hinako patted the chair beside her, urging me to sit there.

Following her lead, I sat next to her, and she flashed a soft, relaxed smile.

“Let’s eat… together?”

Her expression, younger and looser than usual, was proof she was completely at ease.

I gave a short “Yeah” and started eating lunch with her.

Being able to see this smile—it’s all thanks to Tennouji-san.

I’ll make sure to thank her properly when Monday rolls around.