Chapter 3 | “For Her Present”
Chapter 3 | “A Gift for Her”
Three days after the move, Charl wouldn’t leave my side for a second.
Well, to be precise, she’s been glued to me to ensure I’m never alone with Kanon-san or Sophia-san.
I’ve got nothing to hide, but this makes it impossible to talk about anything without her around.
So, I was in a bit of a pinch.
“—Pardon me. Charlotte-sama, your bath is ready.”
As Charl snuggled up to me on the bed, Kaguya-san knocked and entered the room.
“Okay, thank you. I’ll go take my bath now.”
Charl flashed me a bright smile and got off the bed.
We’ve established a proper bath order: Charl and Kanon-san alternate days for the first slot, followed by Sophia-san, then me, and lastly Kaguya-san, the maid.
At first, Sophia-san suggested kids go first, but since Emma-chan bathes with her, I let them go before me.
Charl and Kanon-san kept yielding to each other, so Sophia-san suggested they take turns, and that’s how it was settled.
During the discussion, Charl seemed to want me to go first, but I thought the ladies should have priority.
As for Kaguya-san, unlike the Himeragi household, this house doesn’t have a separate servant’s bath, so she goes last.
“Are you sure I shouldn’t wash your back?”
Kaguya-san, who usually washes Kanon-san’s back, seems to think she should do the same for Charl and has been asking this since the first day.
“N-no, it’s embarrassing, so I’m fine. Besides…”
Charl shot me a quick, intense glance.
She looked like she had something to say…
“I see. It would indeed be inconvenient if I went first.”
For some reason, Kaguya-san gave me a scornful look before smiling at Charl.
As always, her treatment of me versus everyone else is like night and day.
“N-no, that’s not what I meant…!”
Charl’s face turned bright red, and she frantically waved her hands in denial.
“Of course. I’ll keep it a secret from President Bennett, so don’t worry.”
“That’s not what I meant…! It’s really a misunderstanding…!”
I’m not sure what’s going on, but Kaguya-san seems to have misread Charl’s glance at me.
It’s rare for someone as sharp as her to get it wrong.
Judging by Charl’s reaction, though, it’s probably not a misunderstanding.
Well, I won’t dig into it.
Charl left the room with Kaguya-san.
—This was the moment I’d been waiting for.
To be safe in case Charl returned suddenly, I waited a few minutes to confirm she wasn’t coming back, then headed to Kanon-san’s room.
“—It’s Akihito. Is now okay?”
I knocked three times and called through the door.
“Yes, of course. Come in.”
With Kanon-san’s permission, I opened the door.
And the moment I stepped inside—
“—A late-night visit?”
I was restrained from behind, and something cold pressed against my neck.
It felt like Kaguya-san’s hand.
“No way, it’s not like that…”
Sweat dripped down as I swallowed hard.
Her murderous aura made me feel barely alive.
“Kaguya, stop teasing Akihito.”
Kanon-san sighed with an exasperated look, telling Kaguya-san to stop.
“You got lucky.”
Kaguya-san whispered in my ear before letting me go.
Why do I have to feel like my life is in danger over this…?
Kaguya’s twisted affection is such a handful…
“Did you say something?”
“Nothing at all.”
I thought I heard Kanon-san mutter something, but she brushed it off with a smile.
Kanon-san shifted from the sofa to the bed, gesturing for me to follow.
She likely meant we’d talk on the bed.
It’s amazing how fast she sensed I had something serious to discuss.
“Pardon me.”
“We’re siblings, so no need for formalities.”
As I sat beside her, she rested a hand on my head.
Then, she stroked it gently, with care.
We’re not technically siblings until I graduate high school… but she’s set on treating me like her little brother.
“I’m still getting used to it…”
“Hehe, take your time.”
Her warm smile eased my heart.
Kanon-san’s voice has a peculiar, calming effect.
Like Charl’s, it’s beautiful, but hers feels mature, like a grown woman’s.
Her lullabies could lull a child to sleep in no time.
“So, what’s on your mind?”
“Charl’s birthday is coming up, right? I want to buy her a gift, so I need to earn some money.”
December 25th, Christmas, is Charl’s birthday.
It’s the first one we’ll share since meeting, dating, and getting engaged.
I want it to be unforgettable and make her happy.
But the gift I have in mind needs a fair bit of money.
“If it’s money, you’ve been getting deposits every month, right? That includes your allowance, separate from living expenses. I checked—it’s more than enough savings for a student, no?”
True, the Himeragi family has been sending me money, and I’ve used it for essentials.
Before Charl came, I rarely spent on fun things, and even after, I’ve kept it minimal.
Plus, Charl’s cooking has saved us a ton on food, so my savings are more than most students could hope for.
But this time, I don’t want to touch that money.
“I’ve been saving it to eventually repay everything I’ve gotten…”
My plan was to return every yen once I could earn my own.
By not spending it, I could put it all toward repayment, so I saved it.
“I knew you’d say that, being so serious…”
Kanon-san sighed, sounding resigned.
Probably because I’m stubborn about repaying something I was told I didn’t need to.
“Things are different now, aren’t they? After high school, you’ll officially be family. No need to repay—you can use it freely.”
I understand the logic: family doesn’t repay family.
But it’s not something I can just accept.
“Even with the special recommendation and joining the Himeragi family, I always planned to repay it…”
I’ve intended to pay it back from the start, family or not, so my stance hasn’t changed.
“That’s not true.”
“Huh?”
She took my hand, her expression serious, and I couldn’t look away.
“Until five days ago, even with the recommendation, you’d only have gotten the Himeragi name. That’s not the same as being truly welcomed as family.”
She’s right… now that she mentions it.
Even if I was family on paper, I’d probably have been treated like a useful tool.
Not genuinely accepted as family.
“But now, it’s decided you’ll be welcomed as family. Getting the name as a formality versus earning it as true family—those are worlds apart.”
It’s a bit complex, but it’s about what’s the goal versus what’s incidental.
“I know you truly see me as family, Kanon-san.”
“Then don’t say lonely things like repaying.”
I feel I should repay out of duty, but Kanon-san seems to see it differently.
She might think I don’t see myself as family if I keep insisting on repayment.
“That’s not what I meant…”
“I know you’re just too serious. But if you see us as family, please stop talking about repaying.”
It’s probably best to drop this for now.
That’s not why I came here, anyway.
“I’ve always looked up to you like a sister.”
Until now, I saw Kanon-san as a senior, not a sister.
No matter how much she treated me like a brother, I couldn’t see her as family since we weren’t.
But now that it’s settled we’ll be siblings, I’ve started seeing her as my sister.
…Though I can’t bring myself to call her “Onee-san” yet.
“For this, I want to buy it with money I’ve earned myself.”
That’s why I don’t want to use my savings.
It feels wrong to use Himeragi money.
But with just over a week left, a regular part-time job won’t work for many reasons.
I should’ve planned sooner, but back then, this gift hadn’t even crossed my mind.
“I see, so that’s why you came to me. Hoping I can find you a day job?”
As expected of someone so sharp—she gets it without me saying it outright.
I’ve never worked, and I’m not sure I could get hired for day work in time.
Plus, there’s a risk of falling for a shady job.
To avoid those risks, I thought it’s best to ask someone who knows the ropes.
“I want to respect your wishes as much as I can—but I have one question.”
Kanon-san released my hand, sat up straight, and looked at me closely.
“You came while Charlotte-san is in the bath, so you don’t want her to know—meaning it’s a surprise gift, right? So, are you planning to lie to her about the time you’re working?”
It’s a valid concern.
Four days ago, Charl and I swore no more secrets.
Kanon-san wasn’t there, but Sophia-san mentioned it during the move, so she must’ve heard.
“Since we promised no secrets, I’ve been wondering if it’s okay to work behind her back, even if it’s to make her happy.”
Even for a surprise, Charl probably guesses I’m preparing a gift.
What I want to surprise her with is the gift itself.
But that’s just my wish to reveal it on her birthday and see her smile.
It’s basically pushing my feelings onto her.
Even if it’s for her happiness, breaking a promise for my own convenience feels wrong.
“First, breaking a promise is obviously not ideal.”
Kanon-san started with that.
“But honestly, with your promise, I think it’s fine to bend it if it’s to make the other happy.”
She doesn’t seem to think breaking this promise is inherently wrong.
“You two promised no secrets to avoid hiding things that could hurt or worsen things, or break trust, right?”
“Yeah, pretty much…”
We didn’t think it through that deeply, but that’s the gist.
“Then, there’s no problem there. Few would get upset over something hidden for their sake.”
There, huh?
So there’s another issue.
“What worries me is whether you’re prioritizing the wrong thing.”
Kanon-san said it calmly.
She doesn’t seem mad, but she’s definitely not pleased.
Her earlier “question” might’ve been to check this.
“What do you mean…?”
“Why do you give a birthday gift?”
She didn’t answer my question.
Maybe she wants me to think it through.
“To celebrate—no, to make the other person happy.”
“And what’s most important to achieve that?”
That would be… their feelings, right?
“Charl’s feelings, I think.”
“Then consider your plan. While you’re working, won’t Charlotte-san feel lonely?”
“Oh…”
I was so focused on keeping secrets that I didn’t think about how Charl would feel while I’m working.
She’s so clingy now—she’d definitely feel something.
“Don’t lose sight of what matters most. I get why you don’t want to use the money you’ve been given, but you’re still a kid, supported by others. Getting an allowance is normal, so why not pick something you can buy with a typical allowance? She’d be happy with anything from you.”
It’s about valuing time over money.
Normally, I’d agree, but…
“…”
I couldn’t find words to reply.
I understand Kanon-san’s point, and she’s right.
But this time, I really want to give her something bought with my own earnings—and I can’t let this chance slip.
“—Kanon-sama, may I speak?”
As I struggled, Kaguya-san, of all people, spoke up.
“What is it?”
Kanon-san turned to her with a smile.
“It’s not my place, but what if Akihito-sama did chores around the house and got paid? Charlotte-sama loves cooking, as does Akihito-sama, but there are other tasks. If he helps me, you could deduct it from my wages.”
That was… completely unexpected.
I never imagined Kaguya-san would offer me a lifeline.
“What do you think? This way, Charlotte-san stays with Akihito, and it’s just helping with chores on the surface.”
Accepting Kaguya-san’s idea, Kanon-san smiled and looked to me.
Honestly, it’s a solid suggestion, but—
“I can’t take money for something like helping around the house…”
“Are you belittling my work?”
When I hesitated, Kaguya-san shot me a menacing glare.
“N-no, that’s not what I meant…!”
I shook my head frantically.
I didn’t mean to insult her, but my words sounded like I was dismissing her job.
What a mistake.
“Then it’s decided. But we won’t deduct from Kaguya’s wages. If I can’t cover that much, I’d be a pathetic master.”
My comment seems to have made it an official job.
Well… at Kaguya-san’s level, her housework is flawless, and she’s always by Kanon-san’s side, so it’s an impressive role.
But could I match that level? Honestly, no chance.
Still, the mood wasn’t right to admit that.
“Thank you… I’ll take the offer.”
Considering the situation and Charl, this is likely the best option.
I stopped resisting.
“One last thing, if I may?”
Just when I thought we were done, Kanon-san leaned close to my ear.
“W-what’s that…?”
I braced myself instinctively.
“What exactly are you planning to buy?”
Kanon-san, unusually, flashed a mischievous grin.
She might’ve already guessed.
“Do I have to say…?”
“I won’t force you, but I’m curious. And depending on what it is, I could pull some strings.”
Kanon-san’s not just wealthy—she’s got connections and is well-liked.
Since I absolutely don’t want to mess this up, her help would be a huge relief.
But… it’s really embarrassing.
“Please, don’t tell anyone…?”
“Of course, it’s our sibling secret.”
Kanon-san smiled brightly and leaned closer.
Kaguya-san looked curious too, staring at me.
At this distance, she might overhear, but… I whispered it to Kanon-san.
◆◆◆
“—Oh, Akihito-kun.”
Leaving Kanon-san’s room and walking down the hall, I bumped into Sophia-san.
Emma-chan was fast asleep in her arms.
“Emma-chan’s out like a light, huh?”
“I took her for a walk, and she got sleepy.”
Right now, Emma-chan stays in Sophia-san’s room.
It’s a loose setup—she goes to her mom’s room, our room, or wherever she feels like.
Today, she must’ve wanted to snuggle with Sophia-san and stayed there.
“She seems happy being with her mom again.”
“…Sorry for making you look after her.”
“Huh…?”
Looking up from Emma-chan’s sleeping face, I saw Sophia-san watching me with an apologetic look.
Maybe she thought I was being sarcastic.
“Sorry, I didn’t mean it as a jab…”
“It’s fine, I know. Is Lottie in the bath?”
Noticing Charl wasn’t with me, Sophia-san glanced around and asked.
“Yeah. Want me to pass on a message?”
“No, it’s not that. Want to chat in my room?”
Seems she wanted to talk to me, not Charl.
Probably just casual talk, though.
Hmm, what to do…
I’m glad to be invited, and we haven’t had a proper chat since reuniting.
I’d love to talk when we get the chance, but I could do that with Charl around.
Though… Charl might get jealous.
She’s especially wary of her mom, after all…
“Is that a no…?”
Sophia-san peeked at my face, reading my expression.
She’s older, but I’m taller, so she looked up at me.
As Charl and Emma-chan’s mom, she’s strikingly beautiful—most guys would fall for her in this moment.
I’ve got Charl, so I’m fine, though.
“No, it’s okay.”
Since she seemed eager to talk, I nodded.
Charl’s been taking longer baths since she started bathing alone, so she’s probably not back yet.
If it takes too long, I can excuse myself for another day.
“Great, let’s go.”
Led by a smiling Sophia-san, I followed her to her room.
“I’ll need to wake her for her bath.”
Sophia-san laid Emma-chan on the bed, gently stroking her head.
Her expression was warm and loving, the perfect image of a doting mother.
Emma-chan’s at her cutest age, and being apart from her must’ve been tough for Sophia-san.
“Come sit.”
Sophia-san sat on the sofa and patted the spot next to her.
Why does everyone want me right beside them?
“Pardon me.”
“No need to be so stiff.”
Sitting down, I got a resigned smile.
It’s a different look, but it reminds me of Kanon-san earlier.
“I can’t help it yet…”
“It’s been, what, ten years? It’s natural. You’ll get used to it.”
As expected, she says something similar.
Both have that calm, mature woman vibe, so they share that trait.
“Thanks… So, what did you want to talk about?”
“I’m truly grateful to you, Akihito-kun. I said it before, but thank you for saving Lottie.”
Sophia-san thanked me with a smile full of warmth.
It felt like the her from nearly a decade ago.
“That’s a bit much…”
Feeling shy, I looked away to avoid the sentiment.
I didn’t really save Charl.
“It’s not too much. Without you, she’d still be weighed down by guilt.”
Her words brought back memories of Charl when she first arrived in Japan.
She focused on Emma-chan to an extreme, living almost entirely for her.
It stemmed from guilt over possibly causing her death.
Lately, she’s been attentive to Emma-chan but also openly affectionate with me.
Sophia-san caring for Emma-chan helps, but Charl’s own burdens seem to have lifted, letting her move forward.
Looking back, Charl slowly started sharing her true feelings with me, and even before her misunderstanding with Sophia-san cleared, she was getting jealous over Emma-chan.
She was changing bit by bit inside.
“Still, I think you could’ve handled it without me…”
I still can’t fully grasp Sophia-san’s depth, and she’s reliably sharp.
She’d have found a way.
“After failing for over five years?”
Sophia-san gave a self-deprecating smile.
The accident happened when Emma-chan was in her womb, so it’s been that long.
She must’ve tried everything, but nothing worked.
“Even so, you never gave up. That’s why Charl and I met, right?”
From what I heard, if it wasn’t for Charl’s sake, she probably wouldn’t have brought her here.
She’d likely have found another way to fix my situation.
Like how she avoided political marriages for Charl, she wouldn’t sacrifice her daughter, even for a friend.
“Sorry for using you like that.”
“Using me? You helped me, and I’m thrilled to be dating Charl—don’t apologize. I’m the one grateful.”
Normally, a guy like me could never date someone as incredible as Charl.
It’s like something straight out of the manga she loves.
“Hearing that puts me at ease.”
Sophia-san let out a relieved sigh.
She must’ve felt uneasy about her forceful approach.
She arranged events for us to bond but left the outcome to us, so she shouldn’t worry.
Her tone’s different, but she’s still the kind big sister I remember.
“To set your mind at ease, I’ll work hard to be a man worthy of Charl.”
Even as her mother, Sophia-san must know how amazing Charl is.
It wouldn’t surprise me if she thinks there’s someone better out there for her.
The bar’s high, but I need to be someone she won’t regret entrusting Charl to.
But—
“What are you talking about? You’re already more than enough.”
She tilted her head, looking puzzled.
“You don’t have to flatter me…”
“It’s not flattery. You kept your promise to me and grew into a fine man. I can say that with confidence.”
Sophia-san said it with a serious look.
It doesn’t feel like flattery or exaggeration—but isn’t she overestimating me?
“Really…?”
“A guy recognized by Kanon-chan, Kaguya-chan, and Lottie? That’s rare. They all have high standards.”
High standards?
News to me.
And why’s Kaguya-san included…?
“I’m pretty sure Kaguya-san can’t stand me…”
“Oh, her case is… unique, yeah. It’s partly her position.”
Sophia-san nodded to herself, like she’d pieced something together.
What’s unique about it?
“Also, I don’t think Kanon-san or Kaguya-san see me romantically…”
Kanon-san treats me like a little brother, and Kaguya-san… what is it?
Someone to push around?
At least, she doesn’t see me as a man.
“Well, no, not romantically. But they both acknowledge you as a man, and it’s not rare to shape a brother into your ideal guy, right?”
So, because Kanon-san guided me, I’m her ideal type?
That’s a bit of a stretch…
“If things were different, maybe—but I’d never say that in front of Lottie.”
She winked playfully.
She means since they see me as a brother or their master’s brother, I’m not a romantic option.
Charl would get anxious or jealous if she heard this.
“But I’m not exactly a looker.”
I don’t think I’m ugly, but I’m not handsome either.
Next to an idol or a hot guy, I’d blend into the background.
“They don’t care about looks. They value inner qualities a lot. Though I think your face is plenty handsome.”
I must’ve made her feel like she had to reassure me.
She’s totally treating me like a kid.
Well, whatever…
“Haha, thanks. But does Charl really have such high standards? I don’t get that vibe.”
I’ve shown her my weak, mopey sides.
Yet she says she loves me.
Her standards can’t be that high.
“First, kindness and total acceptance are must-haves. Plus, intelligence and reliability to help in a pinch, right? On top of that, she needs someone who spoils her rotten and is admired by others—honestly, her standards might be the highest of the three.”
Sophia-san listed them off, counting on her fingers.
How does she come up with all that?
“You know all that…?”
“She’s my daughter—I can tell just by watching. Also, that’s my ideal too.”
That’s just her ideal—Charl’s might be different.
And… Sophia-san’s a clingy type too?
That’s surprising… but they are mother and daughter.
“I feel like I’m nowhere near that… Especially the ‘admired by others’ part—I was hated.”
Charl saw that on our first day.
So, I can’t be her ideal.
“It’s just an ideal—you don’t need to hit every point. But you’re too hard on yourself, Akihito-kun. That’s not good.”
“Ugh…!”
Sophia-san gave me a blunt smile.
She definitely thinks I’m a hassle.
Charl wouldn’t do this.
Back then, Sophia-san wasn’t so direct—maybe my growth made her less lenient.
“Of course, Kanon-chan told me how you were at school. High school too.”
With surveillance and Miyu-sensei around, Kanon-san knew everything.
I regret being so unlikeable now.
It caused Charl trouble and pain.
“Being admired doesn’t mean everyone has to love you. It’s about having a personality others would like. Lottie saw your true character and understood your situation, so it didn’t bother her.”
Since Charl loves me, Sophia-san’s probably right.
Emma-chan liking me must’ve helped too.
Back then, Emma-chan only opened up to family, so her trusting me likely made Charl see me as dependable.
She watched me with Emma-chan closely, after all.
“Well, I’m glad she likes me.”
“Likes? She’s practically glued to you.”
“Haha…”
It’s embarrassing having her mom know so much about our relationship.
Luckily, Sophia-san doesn’t see the clinginess as an issue.
Some might try to pull her away, calling it unhealthy.
“She can’t live without you now, so take responsibility, okay?”
Maybe she’s okay with it because I’ll take responsibility.
We’re engaged, so there’s no worry about me leaving.
“I promise to make her happy.”
“I trust you. She’s intense—only you could handle her.”
No mercy, even for her daughter.
Come to think of it, she was brutal about the doujinshi too.
Is she secretly terrifying…?
“It’s fine—I think she’s super cute.”
“Hehe, that’s a relief. She’s always been detached from most things, less attached to stuff than other kids. Maybe as a reaction, when she loves something, she’s obsessive and super possessive, getting wildly jealous.”
I get that she’s passionate about her interests.
With manga, anime, or cosplay, she talks so intensely it’s like the world vanishes.
I’ve seen her possessive and jealous side, so it adds up.
But—I find that side of her adorable too.
I’m probably just as smitten with her.
“From how you put it, has Charl had a crush before?”
The word “jealousy” made me think it’s not just about objects.
Probably about a person.
“Not a crush, but with her dad, yeah. She’d get jealous and sulk when I talked to him.”
The story was warmer than I expected.
Both—she loved her dad and Sophia-san.
It’s hard to picture now, but as a little kid, it makes sense.
With Emma-chan around, I can easily imagine a jealous toddler Charl.
“Also, not a boy, but she had a close girl friend. When that girl played with others, Charl came home puffing her cheeks like Emma.”
A girl, so no worries.
She’s always had similarities with Emma-chan.
Even now, she has a childish side—they’re truly sisters at heart.
“What happened with that friend?”
“They’re in the same high school and commuted together, so they’re probably still in touch.”
Charl seems fine not seeing her, though…
“Wasn’t she dependent on that friend anymore?”
“It stopped around when Emma was born.”
So, Charl didn’t grow out of it—she suppressed her feelings.
To be a parent for Emma-chan, she stopped relying on others.
Still… why hasn’t Charl mentioned this friend?
If they’re close, you’d think she’d tell me.
Maybe it just hasn’t come up.
“Don’t worry. You’re definitely Charl’s number one now, and friends and boyfriends are different.”
Did she think I was jealous and prying for details?
She reassured me with a smile.
“I’m fine—I’m just glad she has a close friend.”
“…What’s with this composure gap…?”
She gave me a resigned smile.
She’s comparing me to Charl, but I don’t get jealous over a girl friend.
Charl wouldn’t be jealous of Akira either.
…She’s not jealous, right…?
Now I’m doubting myself.
“Anyway, Lottie’s super jealous, so be careful. You’re quite a catch now.”
That’s what she wanted to say.
But hold on.
“I don’t know what Kanon-san said, but I’m not popular…”
Charl’s the only one who’s confessed to me.
I heard something during the sports festival, but that was just the heat of the moment…
“…”
Sophia-san looked at me like I was pitiful.
She clearly wanted to say something.
“Uh…?”
“Even if you’re clueless, drama can happen. Be careful.”
She patted my shoulder, like she was wishing me luck.
I feel like she gave up on something.
“Just in case, I pamper her when she gets jealous, so I’ve got it handled…”
“I hope your stamina holds up.”
Sophia-san smiled gently while saying something wild.
What does she see in me?
“Am I that bad…?”
“Since you’re official, there’s less to worry about… but your clueless moves scare me.”
“What’s that supposed to mean!?”
Her serious tone made me snap back instinctively.
“Hearts aren’t easily controlled. Try not to be a natural flirt—it might already be too late, though.”
Sophia-san looked distant, like she’d given up.
Basically, don’t make others fall for me?
I don’t think that’s an issue…
“We’ve talked too long. Charl might be out of the bath soon—time to head back?”
Glancing at the clock, I realized a lot of time had passed.
Combined with Kanon-san’s room, this could be trouble.
“Sorry, I’ll go now…!”
“Sure, let’s talk again.”
I stood, bowed, and Sophia-san waved me off.
Hurrying back to my room—
“…”
—Charl was sitting on the bed, waiting.
I was too late.
“Oh, you’re out of the bath? Did you tell Kanon-san?”
I tried to stay calm, smiling as I spoke.
If she just got back, she might think I was in the bathroom.
But—
“…”
Charl looked up, eyes teary, cheeks slightly puffed.
Yeah, she definitely knows…
“Uh, um…”
“…”
Charl stood, silently glancing at the bed.
Probably telling me to sit.
I was right—she sat on my lap the moment I did.
It’s rare for her to do that without asking.
She must be really upset.
Then, she pressed her face into my chest, rubbing it.
It’s a silent protest.
Maybe she’s holding back to avoid being controlling.
“Sorry, I was just talking with Kanon-san and Sophia-san—nothing weird.”
I told her the truth, avoiding weak excuses.
Charl looked up, her teary eyes meeting mine.
“It’s fine… It’s just my selfishness…”
She probably thinks it’s wrong to be mad about me talking to them without her.
So, she’s holding back, showing it through affection.
She’s so sincere and lovable…
“I love you, Charl, and I’d never love anyone else romantically. They’re your mom and my soon-to-be sister, after all… But is something still bothering you?”
Instead of letting her bottle it up, she should share her feelings.
I didn’t even know why she’s been so wary lately—this is a good chance.
“I’m scared…”
“Of what?”
Her faint reply confused me, so I asked again.
“Mom was the big sister you admired… And Kanon-neesan, though your sister, isn’t blood-related, she’s a childhood friend, and a beautiful Yamato Nadeshiko… I’m scared you’ll choose them over someone like me…”
Charl gripped my shirt, trembling.
She’s serious.
I was too careless.
If Charl’s admired guy or a cool childhood friend moved in with us, I’d be on edge too.
These past few days, she’s been enduring those fears.
She probably just wanted me where she could see me.
“I’m sorry for making you feel that way.”
I hugged her, gently stroking her head.
“Don’t apologize… I’m the weird one…”
“You’re not weird. I’d feel the same in your place.”
Her jealousy is intense, but I don’t think her feelings are wrong.
“A-kun…”
Charl pressed her cheek to mine, nuzzling.
She loves feeling our warmth—it’s soft and comforting.
I let her do as she wanted.
“…”
After a few minutes, she slowly pulled back.
Then, she gazed at me with heated eyes.
She wanted to go further.
“Kiss…”
“Okay, close your eyes.”
When she asked with longing, I told her to shut her eyes, and she tilted her chin up.
Fully ready, I slowly brought my lips to hers.
As they met, Charl eagerly entwined her tongue.
Who’d imagine the usually refined, gentle Charl like this?
No one at school would believe it.
“—I’m yours, so don’t worry.”
During a breath, I caressed her cheek.
“You’re too kind, A-kun… If you’re this sweet, I won’t be able to let go…”
Maybe she’s saying her clinginess and need to be close come from me spoiling her.
“I’d rather you never let go.”
I love her clinging to me and staying near.
Not being able to let go is perfect for me.
Though, making her suffer for it is another matter.
“You’re pulling me deeper… into a bottomless swamp…”
Saying that, Charl pressed her face to my neck.
Then—a shiver ran down my spine.
She’s kissing my neck.
And not lightly—she’s sucking hard, for a while.
This… might leave a mark, and Kanon-san will tease me…
I thought that, but I couldn’t stop her now.
She’s finally acting on her desires—stopping her would make her hold back again.
I’ll just put a bandage on later.
Maybe… she’s marking me as hers.
“Mmh…”
Eventually, she pulled away.
“Satisfied?”
“Not yet…”
She kissed me again, taking the lead this time.
I met her fully, kissing her back.
“…”
Lost in time, we kissed repeatedly—then Charl placed a hand on my chest.
Her flushed, yearning expression showed she was completely smitten, wanting more.
“Um—”
Knock, knock, knock.
““—!?””
As Charl started to speak, a knock came at the worst possible time.
“Y-yes…!”
I answered quickly, and Charl hurriedly slid off my lap, sitting close beside me.
“Pardon the intrusion, but the bath is free, Akihito-sama.”
Kaguya-san entered, letting me know Sophia-san and the others were done.
With our faces red, she probably knows we were getting close.
“Got it, I’ll go now.”
“Ah…”
As I stood, Charl looked at me with sad eyes.
“I’ll be back as soon as I can.”
I can’t go before Kaguya-san, so I have to prioritize that.
I patted Charl’s head to tide her over.
“—Put on hold again…”
As I left, I thought I heard Charl mutter something—
“Don’t go overboard.”
Kaguya-san, leaving first, pointed at her neck with a cold stare, and it slipped my mind.
I forgot the bandage…
