Chapter 4: No Lies
Up until that point, it was probably just another ordinary day.
I attended classes diligently, ate lunch with Hinako during the break, and then joined Tennouji-san for our study session after school.
But then, in the middle of it all.
After school, as I was changing shoes at the shoe lockers, I caught sight of something unusual.
A single envelope tucked inside my locker.
Seeing that white letter, I instinctively slammed the locker shut.
“No way…!”
A love letter.
…A love letter?!
No, no… that’s ridiculous.
Would a student from Kiou Academy really fall for a guy like me?
Sure, as a caretaker, I take care with my appearance, but Kiou Academy is full of stunningly attractive people. There’s no way I’d stand out based on looks alone.
My social status, on paper, is the heir to a mid-tier company. That might turn heads at a regular high school, but at Kiou Academy, where future CEOs of major corporations are a dime a dozen, it’s nothing special. I can’t think of any reason someone would pick me.
“W-What do I do? Should I tell Shizune-san…?”
My head was spinning, and I desperately wanted to talk to someone.
At a normal school, I’d immediately suspect a prank, but at this academy, I doubt any student would stoop to something so childish.
Taking a deep breath, I opened the locker again.
Hesitantly, I picked up the envelope—
—A challenge letter.
Those unexpected words were scrawled across the front.
“…Huh?”
I froze for a solid minute before my brain started turning again.
This… has to be a prank, right? At least it’s not a love letter. I’m relieved… or maybe a little disappointed? No, I wasn’t expecting anything in the first place, so it’s fine. Let’s go with that.
Opening the letter, I found a meeting time and place written inside.
No pleasantries or greetings—just “After school, at the dojo.”
“…Hm?”
Looking at the elegant handwriting, I tilted my head.
“This… this is Tennouji-san’s writing, isn’t it?”
Having studied with her, I’d gotten familiar with Tennouji-san’s penmanship.
The bold, masterful strokes, like those of a calligrapher pouring their soul into the page, were so distinctly her—strong-willed and commanding.
For now, I headed to the dojo as instructed.
Kiou Academy had a dojo right next to the gymnasium. I opened the door and stepped inside.
At the center of the dojo, Tennouji-san sat in perfect seiza, dressed in a hakama.
“You’ve come.”
She spoke, slowly opening her eyes.
“Um, Tennouji-san, what’s this about a challenge letter…?”
“First, please change into a kendo uniform in the changing room.”
Her words carried an undeniable force, and though I was puzzled, I followed her instructions.
In the boys’ changing room, I found a single kendo uniform. Having trained in self-defense at the Konohana household, I knew how to put it on.
As I was about to leave the changing room, I noticed a bamboo shinai leaning against the wall by the door. Should I take it? Still unsure of Tennouji-san’s intentions, I tilted my head but grabbed the shinai anyway.
“Tennouji-san, I’ve changed as you asked, but what’s this all about—?”
“—Tomonari-san.”
Rising from her seiza, Tennouji-san reached into the folds of her hakama.
“What are these?”
She held out three photographs.
Taking them, I looked at the images—and my eyes widened.
“Kuh…!?”
They were photos from this morning, showing me leaving the Konohana estate with Hinako.
Thoughtfully captured from three different angles, they left no doubt that the figures were unmistakably me and Hinako.
“This morning, I had my subordinates take these. …It almost looks like you’re living with Konohana Hinako, doesn’t it?”
I recalled Shizune-san shouting “Intruder!” earlier.
At the time, we’d brushed it off as a misunderstanding, but… it seems there really was someone watching.
“W-Well, that’s… I had some family business at the Konohana estate, so…”
“…Then let me rephrase. Where were you during lunch today, and who were you with?”
This time, I fell silent.
The morning photos had already made her suspicions nearly certain. Tennouji-san must have been observing me and Hinako all day. I’d been cautious of people around us, but… her family, the Tennoujis, is as prestigious as the Konohanas. Once she had her sights on me, there was no slipping past her.
“I’ll take your silence as confirmation.”
Tennouji-san lowered her gaze as she spoke.
“In other words—you’ve been betraying me, haven’t you?”
Her sharp eyes glared at me.
“Betraying? No, it’s not like that, I didn’t mean to…”
“Assume your stance.”
Tennouji-san pointed her shinai at me.
“I’ll crush that twisted heart of yours!!”
Her shinai came crashing down.
“Whoa!?”
It was a powerful strike, hardly what you’d expect from a woman.
I dodged by a hair’s breadth, the shinai grazing the tip of my nose.
“W-Wait, Tennouji-san!”
“I won’t wait!!”
Another swing aimed at my head came rushing in.
We were only wearing hakama, with no protective gear. If this kept up, one of us could get seriously hurt.
I hurriedly raised my shinai to block, but Tennouji-san twisted her wrist, redirecting her strike.
“Kote!!”
“Guh…!?”
A sharp pain shot through my wrist.
Tennouji-san was serious. …But that didn’t mean I could fight back just as earnestly. She’s the daughter of the Tennouji family. If I injured her, it could escalate into a massive issue.
“You…!”
As she swung her shinai, Tennouji-san spoke.
“You…! You were mocking me, weren’t you…!!”
Her eyes were glistening with tears.
“While I was burning with rivalry against Konohana Hinako… you pretended to help me, but behind my back, you were laughing at me…!!”
Hearing her trembling voice, I realized.
Tennouji-san—was misunderstanding everything.
“No, that’s not true!”
Blocking her shinai, I shouted.
“Yes, I’m staying with the Konohana family! I’m sorry for keeping that from you! But I spend time with you because I want to, Tennouji-san! Hinako has nothing to do with it!!”
“Don’t give me your excuses! I can’t trust a word you say, you traitor!!”
She pushed back against my shinai.
Where did that slender frame of hers hide such strength? Cold sweat broke out across my skin.
I had lied to Tennouji-san. That… might indeed count as a betrayal.
I’d hidden my status, my background, my true feelings. She’d trusted me enough to confide that she was adopted, yet I’d betrayed her sincere emotions.
“Tennouji-san… you’ve got it wrong. I’ve never laughed at you.”
“No more excuses!”
She was right. Every word from my mouth was just an excuse.
I understood why Tennouji-san was so furious.
It was because she had trusted me so much.
And what about me?
Saying I hadn’t betrayed her, that Hinako wasn’t involved… yet by lying, I’d already shown I didn’t trust Tennouji-san.
Is Tennouji-san someone untrustworthy?
Not at all. If anything, there’s hardly anyone as trustworthy as her. No matter what I say, she’ll always respond with integrity.
“I admit I lied.”
I spoke, parrying her shinai.
“I admit I kept things from you. But… it wasn’t to hurt you.”
“I said no excuses!”
Right now, Tennouji-san was too upset to listen.
If she could calm down, she’d surely understand. She suspects some petty bullying, but would someone spend every afternoon with her, enduring rigorous lessons, just for something so trivial?
“This is the truth.”
“I told you, I can’t believe—!”
Tennouji-san raised her shinai to strike again.
Just before it came down, I thrust my right arm forward, grabbing her shinai to stop it.
“…It’s the truth.”
Dropping all pretense, I spoke plainly.
Clutching her shinai tightly, I made up my mind.
I’d tell her everything.
Just as Tennouji-san had trusted me—I wanted to trust her.
“Now, shall I hear your explanation?”
Having regained her composure, Tennouji-san fixed me with a steady glare.
In the center of the dojo, seated in seiza across from each other, the air between us was thick with tension.
“The truth is—“
I explained my situation honestly.
That I wasn’t the heir to a mid-tier company. That I worked as a servant for the Konohana family. I laid it all out.
But—I didn’t mention Hinako’s true nature.
That was something I couldn’t reveal. It was deeply tied to the Konohana family’s affairs, and besides, exposing Hinako’s secrets without permission felt wrong, even if I was confessing my own.
“I see… I see, I see, I see…”
Listening to my explanation, Tennouji-san nodded repeatedly.
“So, you’re not the heir to a company but the eldest son of a poor family, currently working as Konohana Hinako’s caretaker, which is why you’re a student at Kiou Academy. And you kept it secret because you didn’t want to cause trouble for the Konohana family who took you in. …It’s hard to believe, but it does add up.”
Tennouji-san seemed convinced.
Then, fixing me with a piercing stare, she said,
“Fraud.”
She declared it bluntly.
“You’re a fraud.”
“…You’re absolutely right.”
I had no comeback. I bowed my head.
“…That way of speaking.”
“Huh?”
“Is that not an act as well? When you stopped my shinai, your tone seemed to change.”
“…Well.”
It wasn’t exactly an act, but my usual way of speaking was indeed different.
Not every student at Kiou Academy uses formal speech. Classmates like Taishou and Asahi, for instance, are casual with everyone.
“Speak in your real tone.”
“…But.”
“I said, use your real tone.”
Her commanding presence left no room for argument.
At this point, trying to keep up appearances was pointless anyway.
“…Alright.”
Switching back to my natural tone, I saw Tennouji-san’s eyes widen.
“So… that’s how you really sound.”
Her expression turned solemn before sharpening again as she looked at me.
“Swear it. From now on, you’ll never lie to me—not in words or in attitude.”
She continued.
“If you keep that vow, I promise we can continue as we were.”
“…Is that okay? Just like before?”
“I told you, I trust my judgment of people. …In the end, you lied to respect the Konohana family’s wishes rather than for your own gain. I can’t simply dismiss that.”
Even in a situation like this, Tennouji-san remained utterly principled.
In truth, she’d likely never do anything to harm others. She’d know when to speak and when to hold back, depending on the circumstances.
“Having secrets is unavoidable. But from now on, if you can’t say something, just say so. That’s what it means to not lie.”
“…Got it. I won’t lie to you anymore, Tennouji-san.”
As I said that, Tennouji-san’s face lit up as if she’d just thought of something.
“Since we’re at it, shall we change how we address each other? …When we’re alone, you may call me Mirei.”
“Huh?”
“…What’s with that surprised look? You should feel honored.”
Tennouji-san pouted, clearly displeased.
“I’ll call you Izuki-san. …Let’s make that a signal for when we can speak freely with each other.”
That could actually be pretty convenient.
In public, we’d use our usual formal address, but when we could relax, we’d switch to first names. Coincidentally, I already had a similar arrangement with Hinako, so it didn’t feel strange.
“Alright… Mirei.”
I tried calling her by her first name.
Instantly, Tennouji-san’s face flushed bright red.
She fell silent, clearly struggling to suppress her embarrassment.
“Mirei?”
“N-Never mind, let’s not do that.”
“What?”
Fidgeting with her golden hair and averting her gaze, Tennouji-san said,
“I-I can’t stay calm if you call me that… You can keep using my last name. I’ll call you Izuki-san.”
I nodded with a simple “Sure.” If that’s what she wanted, I was fine with it.
“Anyway, from this day forward, no more lies. To keep things fair, I’ll also refrain from lying to you. …If you have any questions for me, feel free to ask.”
“Anything, huh…?”
Even when prompted, I couldn’t think of anything off the top of my head.
Or so I thought—but there was one thing about Tennouji-san that had been nagging at me for a while. Still, I decided it wasn’t the right question for this moment.
“…Nah, nothing comes to mind.”
“Your eyes just darted away.”
Tennouji-san didn’t miss my brief hesitation.
“Honestly, why are you holding back now of all times?”
“No, it’s just… it’s not that big a deal.”
“I said no lies. Besides, if you hold back in a situation like this, it’ll just make me more curious. Ask me anything.”
“…Alright then.”
Since she was insisting, I decided to be honest.
“Your hair… you dyed it, didn’t you?”
“—!”
The moment I asked, a strange “Hiiek!” escaped Tennouji-san’s lips.
“W-W-What kind of tactless question is that…!!”
“…I’ve been wondering about it for a while.”
“Tch… To think I’d end up hanging myself with my own rope so soon… You really are a fraud…!!”
I don’t think this one’s on me.
“…I do.”
“Huh?”
“I dye it! Got a problem with that!?”
Tennouji-san’s face was beet red as she snapped.
I don’t have any complaints, so I shake my head. At that, Tennouji-san seems to regain her composure, the flush in her cheeks gradually fading.
“…To become an appearance befitting the eldest daughter of the Tennouji family, I’ve dyed my hair blonde since I was young. …My manner of speech is the same.”
“Ah, so that way of talking was intentional after all.”
“Of course it was. …And by now, I can no longer back down from it.”
Tennouji-san says with a complicated expression.
Indeed, knowing the usual Tennouji-san, it’s hard to imagine her with black hair and speaking normally. I might worry she ate something bad.
“…One more thing, let me ask.”
I realized there was one more thing I needed to ask.
“Besides you, Tennouji-san, is there anyone else who knows I’m being taken care of by the Konohana family?”
“No, only I know. All the investigations were personally commissioned by me. …It was my mother who first suspected you, but I’ve managed to brush her off.”
“…I see.”
I was about to say thank you, but… I hesitated and closed my mouth.
“Is something the matter?”
“No… I was just thinking that, now that my identity’s been exposed, I might not be able to stay at this academy anymore.”
“…!”
There’s no option to keep this from Hinako or Shizune-san.
I trusted Tennouji-san. And even now, I’m certain. She would never spread the information she learned about this matter to anyone.
But… surely Kagen-san won’t forgive me.
As I was thinking that, I noticed Tennouji-san looking at me with a sad expression.
“I-I’m terribly sorry. Because I interrogated you so persistently… I hadn’t thought that far ahead.”
“…No, it’s not your fault, Tennouji-san.”
Seeing Tennouji-san misunderstand, I quickly corrected her.
There’s absolutely no blame on Tennouji-san regarding this matter. Because—
“I didn’t want to keep lying to you, Tennouji-san.”
I’m not confident I’m managing a good smile right now.
Whether a demon or a snake comes out.
All the results will come after I return to the mansion today.
“Izuki-san, thank you for your hard work with Tennouji-sama’s lesson today as well.”
When I returned to the mansion, Shizune-san greeted me.
I have a duty to report what happened today to Shizune-san. My fists clenched with nervousness, I took a deep breath and spoke.
“Um… Shizune-san. There’s something I’d like to talk about.”
“What a coincidence. I have something as well.”
“Huh?”
It seems Shizune-san has some business with me too.
I have no guesses about what it could be. But… surely, this time, my matter is more significant.
“Then, let’s hear your matter first, Izuki-san.”
“…Yes.”
I honestly recounted everything that happened today.
That Tennouji-san found out my true identity. And that—it was my choice. Nervous but as if atoning for my sins, I explained in detail.
“I didn’t tell her about Hinako’s true personality. But other than that… I explained almost everything.”
“…I see.”
Shizune-san nodded with a serious expression.
“Your honesty is commendable.”
“…Huh?”
I was bracing myself for what kind of punishment I’d face, but Shizune-san showed a hint of admiration. Not understanding her meaning, my eyes widened.
“Earlier, I received a call from Tennouji Mirei-sama. Her request was that we not expel you.”
Those words left me stunned.
“I’ve heard the general situation. …Mirei-sama reflected that, because she couldn’t stay calm, she unnecessarily doubted you, Izuki-san. She insists the responsibility for this matter lies with her.”
“That’s not…”
Probably, Tennouji-san… contacted them right after parting with me.
Tennouji-san is that kind of person. I’m shaken, yet somehow convinced.
“As expected of the Tennouji family’s Ojou-sama. Knowing that I’m aware of your status, she deliberately contacted me by name. She must have realized that reporting directly to Kagen-sama would put your position at risk. …I’ll inform Kagen-sama myself. Normally, such a blunder would get you fired immediately, but with the Tennouji family’s Ojou-sama pleading so earnestly, even Kagen-sama can’t dismiss it lightly. As it stands, firing you might instead create a rift with the Tennouji family.”
If Tennouji-san hadn’t made that call, I might have been fired as retribution for deceiving her until now. But because Tennouji-san desperately protected me, the Konohana family concluded that firing me could strain relations with the Tennouji family.
“You’ve been saved, haven’t you?”
“…Yes.”
“I also feel responsible for this matter. …As expected, when it comes to someone like the Tennouji family, information control has its limits. We may need to take further measures.”
Shizune-san said with a serious look.
Then, I noticed Hinako watching us from the hallway.
“Hinako?”
When I called out, Hinako approached with small steps.
“Both of you… what’s going on?”
“Actually, it seems Tennouji-sama has discovered Izuki-san’s true identity.”
“…What?”
Hinako’s sleepy eyes slowly widened.
“What’s going to happen to Izuki…? No way… is he going to be fired…?”
“I believe there’s likely no need to worry about that.”
Shizune-san stated calmly.
Then Hinako walked up beside me,
“Ouch!”
She lightly kicked my shin.
“…Don’t make me worry.”
“…Sorry.”
I apologized to Hinako, who was pouting.
“But… how did she find out…?”
“…I didn’t want to keep lying to Tennouji-san. She’s not the kind of person who’d use this to hurt others… I judged that I could trust her.”
“…Hmph.”
Suddenly, Hinako let out a disgruntled sound.
“You… really trust her, huh.”
“Yeah. But you know Tennouji-san’s like that too, right, Hinako?”
“…Well, yeah, but.”
Mmm, Hinako made a complicated face.
Then her small lips parted,
“…Izuki, you idiot.”
“Huh!?”
Hinako turned on her heel and walked off somewhere.
I stared after her retreating figure, dumbfounded.
“Sh-Shizune-san. Did… Hinako start hating me…?”
“No, it’s not like that…”
Shizune-san put a hand to her forehead and sighed.
“…What should I do?”
Night. After finishing my usual pre-bedtime study, I stretched my back lightly.
Checking the answers to the problems I solved, I noticed my accuracy was lower than usual.
I couldn’t focus much today.
“…I made them worry.”
Shizune-san, and Hinako. I feel responsible for making them anxious.
This is absolutely not Tennouji-san’s fault. The lies, and the carelessness that let Tennouji-san catch on—it’s all my doing.
I was about to close my textbook but opened it again.
One more push, let’s keep going… Just as I thought that, there was a knock at my door.
“…? Come in.”
It’s rare for someone to visit at this hour.
When the door opened, Shizune-san and Hinako stood there.
“Hinako?”
“…Mm.”
Guided by Shizune-san, Hinako stepped into my room with small footsteps.
Shizune-san, still at the door, silently nodded at me and turned away. It seems she was only escorting Hinako and had no business with me.
The door closed, leaving me alone with Hinako.
Hinako often comes to my room and naps on my bed, so I’m not nervous about it now, but—
“Uh, what’s up?”
“…Nothing.”
Apparently, she doesn’t have any particular reason.
She doesn’t seem upset, but… seeing her face reminded me of today’s events, so I bowed my head.
“Sorry for worrying you today.”
“…Mm.”
With a small nod, Hinako flopped onto my bed.
“If you got fired… I’d be in trouble.”
Hugging my pillow tightly, Hinako said.
If I got fired, of course, I’d be in trouble. But not just me—Hinako would be too.
I need to be more careful.
What more should I be mindful of going forward?
“…By the way, how do you usually act, Hinako?”
I asked as she hugged my pillow.
“…Why?”
“I was thinking I need to behave more properly from now on. …You seem so natural now, but at the academy, you act like a refined Ojou-sama, right? I want to know how you switch, just as a reference.”
Explaining my intent, Hinako nodded in understanding.
She thought for a moment,
“Hmm… I don’t do anything weird. …It just kinda became second nature.”
Is that so?
I half-expected some Konohana-style hypnosis technique or something.
That it became second nature is… hard to know if I should be impressed. Did she adapt by choice… or was she raised in an environment where she had no choice but to adapt?
Thankfully, Hinako doesn’t seem to mind.
“So, like, could you act like you do at the academy right now if you wanted to?”
“Mm… I can.”
Nodding slightly, Hinako slowly stood up.
She approached me as I sat in my chair.
At the same distance we’d have in a classroom, Hinako straightened her posture.
“Good morning, Tomonari-kun.”
“Whoa!”
Her tone, her voice, her gestures—everything changed in an instant.
Startled by the sudden appearance of Ojou-sama mode Hinako, she pouted.
“What’s with the ‘whoa’…?”
“N-No, sorry. I was just surprised…”
I hurriedly apologized to the displeased Hinako.
It was smoother than I expected… like she slid right into it.
“You can switch that easily, huh…”
“Mm. …It’s stifling at the academy, but here I can relax.”
Apparently, acting here doesn’t feel like a burden.
That’s a relief.
“…Oh, but since this isn’t the academy… I can call you by your name.”
Hinako muttered as if realizing something.
Switching back to Ojou-sama mode, she looked straight into my eyes,
“Good morning, Izuki-kun.”
“—!”
My heart skipped a beat.
It’s just my name as usual, but it threw me off.
“Is something wrong, Izuki-kun? You look a bit pale…”
“N-No…”
I mustn’t think it.
At the academy, Hinako’s forced to act this way, which stresses her out.
So I absolutely mustn’t think it, but—
(This… has some serious impact.)
It’s the first time she’s called my name in this mode. It feels like an unattainable flower, blooming just for me, leaning in close.
The reason this girl before me is called the perfect Ojou-sama.
I clearly understood why she’s hailed as the unattainable flower at Kiou Academy.
“Izuki-kun?”
Hinako peered into my face.
I’d half-forgotten, but Hinako’s beauty turns heads ten out of ten times. I’d gotten used to our usual closeness, but with Ojou-sama mode Hinako this close, I can’t help but be hyper-aware.
“…Hinako.”
“Yes, what is it?”
Still in Ojou-sama mode, Hinako tilted her head slightly.
I can’t keep talking like this—it’s too nerve-wracking.
“I’ve got potato chips.”
“Huh?”
Hinako instantly snapped back to her usual self.
When I pulled a bag of chips from my drawer, Hinako’s eyes sparkled.
They were given to me by Shizune-san as a last resort for when Hinako wouldn’t listen during my caretaker duties, but since she’s been cooperative lately, I hadn’t used them.
“Yummm…”
Taking the chips, Hinako was completely back to her relaxed, carefree self.
I definitely feel more at ease with this Hinako.
But… now that I think about it, giving her snacks this late might’ve been a bad move.
“…Don’t tell Shizune-san.”
“Mm!”
Hinako nodded with a beaming smile.
The next day after school.
I headed to the gymnasium for dance lessons with Tennouji-san.
“Ah… Tennouji-san.”
After changing into gym clothes in the locker room, I stepped into the gymnasium and saw Tennouji-san, who had just changed as well.
Tennouji-san glanced at me, then looked around,
“Izuki-san.”
She signaled.
Right now, we’re the only ones here.
So I can drop the formal attitude—but since I’ve always spoken politely to her, her permission throws me off.
“Uh… looking forward to today’s lesson.”
“Why are you so nervous?”
My awkward greeting made Tennouji-san chuckle.
It’s a bit embarrassing, but it helps ease my tension.
“You called the Konohana family yesterday, right? …Thanks. Without that, I might’ve been expelled.”
“There’s no need to dwell on it. It’s true that I feel responsible.”
Tennouji-san said with a serious expression.
“To be honest, I secretly observed you today… and indeed, you were behaving in a manner befitting Konohana Hinako’s caretaker. Always subtly by her side, ready to rush to her aid at a moment’s notice. Honestly, Konohana Hinako is truly blessed, isn’t she?”
“Hearing you say that puts me at ease. Though, to be frank, I’m barely keeping up.”
“There’s no need for modesty. You’ve likely been thoroughly trained by the Konohana household’s staff. As a caretaker, you’re more than exceptional.”
Saying this, Tennouji-san lowers her gaze slightly.
“I’m truly… jealous. If only you could be my caretaker instead…”
Tennouji-san mutters something under her breath.
“Did you say something?”
“…No, nothing.”
Tennouji-san responds with a slightly irritated tone.
Did I say something to upset her…?
“By the way, Izuki-san… what do you and Konohana Hinako do during lunch breaks? I know you two are always at the old student council building, but…”
Tennouji-san glares at me.
All I did during today’s lunch break was feed Hinako her lunch and let her nap on my lap… but there’s no way I can admit that.
“Just, you know, eating lunch like normal.”
“If it’s just eating, you could do that in the classroom. You’re not doing anything else, are you?”
As expected of Tennouji-san.
Her intuition is sharp. So, I have no choice but to—
“…I’ll remain silent.”
“…Oh?”
Tennouji-san’s eyes narrow sharply.
“Just to be clear, you’re not doing anything improper, are you?”
“No, that’s…”
Suddenly, I recall letting Hinako nap on my lap.
Wouldn’t that be considered inappropriate by societal standards? No, but… since neither of us has those intentions, it’s probably fine.
“…I don’t think we are.”
“Why did you hesitate just now?”
“We’re not.”
My anxiety must have slipped into my words.
I quickly deny it, but it’s a bit too late—Tennouji-san grows even more suspicious.
“As I thought, there’s something special between you and Konohana Hinako…!!”
“Even if you say that… what’s your basis for suspecting anything?”
“My intuition!!”
“Intuition…”
In other words, she has no evidence at all.
“…If I had to say, compared to a typical caretaker, we might be just a tad closer.”
“C-closer…?”
Tennouji-san furrows her brow.
“…How close, exactly?”
“How close, you ask?”
“Yes! How close are you!? Like, just chatting occasionally, or greeting each other when you pass by—there are all sorts of levels, aren’t there!!”
That’s not closeness; that’s what you’d do with a complete stranger.
Why am I even being interrogated like this? Puzzled, I answer.
“For example, we might have a light chat.”
“W-well, that’s no issue. We do that too.”
“And, like I said, we eat together.”
“…That’s fine too. We do that as well.”
“Sometimes… I pat her head.”
“We never did that—!!”
Tennouji-san shouts.
Crap. After getting away with the last two, I let my guard down and slipped.
“Patting her head!? Patting her head!? What kind of situation calls for that!?”
“W-well, it’s just, sometimes the mood feels right for it, you know?”
“What kind of mood!?”
Thud! Tennouji-san stomps the floor hard.
It’s hard to explain that mood. As I struggle to respond, Tennouji-san, her face bright red, says to me,
“Pat my head too…”
“…Huh?”
“Pat my head! I, Tennouji Mirei, will not let Konohana Hinako outdo me!!”
Outdo her…?
What exactly is Tennouji-san competing with Hinako over?
“Alright then…”
Since she might get even angrier if I don’t, I reach out toward Tennouji-san’s head.
“Fwa…”
As I pat her head, Tennouji-san lets out a strange sound.
Despite her bold personality, her hair is as soft as silk, different from Hinako’s in texture. Her part is just slightly off-center.
As I continue patting her small head for a while, Tennouji-san’s cheeks flush red, and she falls silent. Nervously, I call out to her.
“…Tennouji-san?”
“Hah—!?”
Tennouji-san’s eyes widen as if snapping back to reality.
When I pull my hand away, she deliberately clears her throat.
“Ahem. My apologies… I was lost in thought for a moment.”
“Lost in thought…?”
“What?”
It didn’t look like that at all, but saying so might stir trouble, so I keep quiet.
“S-so, you do things like this… with Konohana Hinako?”
“…Well, yeah.”
At my affirmation, Tennouji-san wrinkles her brow.
“Heh, hehehe… As expected, Konohana Hinako and I are utterly incompatible…!!”
Tennouji-san clenches her fist and mutters.
“…Let’s start the lesson.”
“Huh?”
“We’re starting the lesson!!”
“Y-yes, ma’am!!”
For some reason, Tennouji-san is absolutely furious.
“Your movements are lagging there!!”
An hour has passed since the lesson began.
Whenever I make a mistake, Tennouji-san swiftly points it out.
“S-somehow, it feels stricter than usual today…!”
“I don’t go easy on frauds!”
“Ugh… I’ve got nothing to say to that.”
Before I know it, my legs are wobbling. I should have enough stamina to keep up with Tennouji-san, but my inefficient movements are probably draining me more than necessary.
Another hour passes, and we finally stop.
“That’s enough for today.”
“Th-thank you…”
Bowing, I wipe the sweat dripping down my cheek with the back of my hand.
Tennouji-san tugs at her collar to wipe her face, and as her gym clothes lift, I catch a glimpse of her slender, pale waist. I quickly avert my eyes.
“As always, you pick things up quickly.”
“…Doesn’t feel like it to me.”
“I’m not saying this to flatter you. What would normally take two days to learn, you’ve mastered in half a day. It’s likely your drive to improve that fuels such growth.”
After saying this, Tennouji-san seems to ponder something.
“What’s wrong?”
“Nothing. I just realized, belatedly, something about my own tastes. It seems… I like people who strive hard.”
Tennouji-san says this out of the blue.
It was probably an unconscious remark. But to me, those words are hard to ignore.
“Uh, so… when you say ‘like,’ you mean…”
“D-don’t misunderstand!! I mean I respect them as a person!!”
“Oh, right, that kind of like…”
“Of course! Otherwise—”
Tennouji-san pauses, her expression shifting as if she’s come to her senses.
“…Otherwise, it wouldn’t do.”
She says this with a solemn look.
Lately, Tennouji-san’s been making that face a lot. Unsure how to respond, I decide to change the subject.
“By the way, you mentioned being adopted, but you don’t really give off that vibe. Unlike me, you don’t seem… common, I guess.”
“I was raised in the Tennouji household since I was old enough to remember. In that sense, unlike you, Izuki-san, I never had to adjust my behavior. That spared me some effort.”
Having grown up with commoner habits, I had to work to adopt the refined manners of Kiou Academy. Though Tennouji-san is adopted, she was raised in the Tennouji family from infancy, so she never faced that transition.
But that doesn’t mean she’s put in less effort than me. Living as the Tennouji family’s Ojou-sama comes with immense pressure I’ll never know.
“So, you don’t really know much about commoner life, huh?”
“Correct. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t curious.”
Some students at Kiou Academy are familiar with commoner life. Narika, for instance, often visits candy stores.
“But… for now, I must focus on studying to surpass Konohana Hinako.”
Tennouji-san says this with a serious expression.
“…I’ve thought this for a while, but you really love competition, don’t you?”
“Indeed. Originally, I aimed to be the best at everything for the Tennouji family’s sake, but at some point, it became second nature.”
That’s so very Tennouji-san.
“Especially this time… depending on the engagement, my future is uncertain. I need to settle things with Konohana Hinako while I still can.”
“…Your future?”
Seeing her resolute demeanor, a question strikes me.
“Your future… will the engagement change something?”
“Yes. In the worst case, I might have to leave the Academy.”
“What?”
Her sudden words make my eyes widen.
“My betrothed lives a bit far from here. They seem to want to live together as soon as possible, so if the engagement is finalized, I’ll likely have to leave the Academy immediately.”
“W-wait a second. Why so suddenly…?”
“It can’t be helped. I only heard about it last night myself.”
Tennouji-san says calmly.
“Accepting an engagement means this. Following the family’s wishes, devoting myself entirely to the bond between our houses. I’m no longer in a position to be free.”
Her lips tighten as she speaks.
The usual confidence is absent from Tennouji-san’s face.
“I’ve asked this many times, but let me ask again. Tennouji-san, do you truly feel good about this engagement?”
At my question, Tennouji-san’s face flickers with sadness for a moment.
No lies. She’s the one who said that.
Closing her eyes, she offers a refined smile… and answers.
“I’ll remain silent.”
That, in itself, is as good as an answer.
The next day.
In the classroom after lessons, during a break, I let out a deep sigh.
“Yo, Tomonari. You look like you’re brooding.”
“What’s up~? Got something to talk about? I’m all ears~!”
Taishou and Asahi-san approach.
These two always show up when I need someone to talk to. It’s probably not a coincidence. Both are the class’s mood-makers, always attentive. They might instinctively reach out when they sense someone’s troubled.
“Um, I wanted to ask you two… what’s an engagement like?”
“What!? Don’t tell me, Tomonari-kun, you’ve got an engagement offer!?”
“No, not me. It’s about a friend.”
“Phew, thought you’d betrayed us for a second.”
Betrayed? Tilting my head, Asahi-san explains.
“These days, engagements are mostly for big corporations, you know~? For people at our social level, an engagement’s like… marrying into wealth, basically~.”
“Sometimes, even at our level, parents push for betrothals, but it’s not as formal as an ‘engagement.’ And of course, you can say no.”
Asahi-san’s explanation is supplemented by Taishou.
Betrayed… so they thought I was aiming to marry up or something.
“Do engagements even come with the right to refuse?”
“Depends on the family… or rather, the parents, to be precise.”
Taishou says with a serious look.
“For someone like Konohana-san, there might not be a choice. But usually, those cases are explained thoroughly from childhood. Plus, with how society is now, people aren’t too forceful. If the rift with the kid gets too big, it could cause conflicts over company management later.”
In Hinako’s case, her personality meant no engagement partner had been decided.
Nodding at Asahi-san’s explanation, I reach a realization.
Tennouji-san… if she wanted to, she could refuse the engagement.
But she doesn’t. Probably because she’s adopted.
Tennouji-san wants to repay the Tennouji family for raising her. That’s why she never considered refusing from the start. Given her resolve, she’d likely accept any engagement, no matter the partner. Refusing isn’t even an option in her mind.
But is that really the right thing?
Should I be supporting Tennouji-san in this?
—Of course not.
Stop pretending you haven’t noticed. I’ve seen it plenty of times.
Tennouji-san isn’t enthusiastic about the engagement. I’ve seen the signs over and over.
When the engagement came up, she seemed gloomier than usual. When I asked if she felt good about it, she said she’d “remain silent.” I’m not so dense as to miss such obvious signals.
“Tomonari-kun, you okay? You’ve got a super serious look on your face…”
“I’m fine. Just thinking about how to sabotage an engagement.”
“Are you really okay!?”
Asahi-san looks shocked.
“Uh, I’m not sure what’s going on, but… maybe don’t do anything too reckless?”
“It’s a classic trope in fiction, though. Charging into an engagement to save a heroine from an unwanted marriage, whisking the bride away. I kinda wanna try it once~…”
“If you did it, Taishou-kun, it’d feel more like a comedy than a drama.”
“Don’t underestimate me! When I get serious, I’m pretty darn cool, you know!”
“Sure, sure.”
Asahi-san brushes off Taishou’s indignation casually.
“Realistically, the smartest solution is for the people involved to talk it out. In this day and age, engagements aren’t that likely to go through, and the other party probably expects the possibility of being turned down. When you think about it that way, refusing doesn’t seem that hard…”
Asahi-san says thoughtfully, a finger on her chin.
“But, like, I’ve heard marriage is all about compromise, right~?”
“Ugh, I don’t wanna hear that. Dreamless talk like that’s poison for kids.”
“Half the students at Kiou Academy are company heirs before they’re kids, you know.”
Asahi-san gives a wry smile to Taishou, who’s covering his ears.
Company heirs before kids. Those words stick with me.
“By the way, Tomonari-kun, you doing something with Tennouji-san today?”
“Yeah. Up until recently, she was teaching me manners, but with the practical exams coming up, we’re switching to studying starting today.”
“Hmm~.”
Asahi-san gives a knowing hum.
“You two have been giving off some vibes lately, or so the rumors say~.”
“Huh?”
“Man, Tomonari-kun, you’re popular~! Tennouji-san’s as big a deal as Konohana-san, you know? How many guys at this Academy are crushing on her, I wonder~?”
In response to Asahi’s comment, Taishou nodded seriously and said, “I’m one of those people.”
Not long ago, Tennouji and I had a slight argument, but at some point, it seems those around us started thinking we had a good vibe going. Honestly, revealing my true identity might’ve brought me closer to Tennouji. The saying “after the rain, the ground hardens” fits perfectly here.
Still, for the sake of Tennouji’s honor, I need to clear up the misunderstanding.
“…It’s not that kind of relationship, you know.”
“Well, I kinda figured. But Tomonari-kun, it feels like you’ve been living life to the fullest lately.”
“Yeah… I’d say I’m definitely having fun.”
If Asahi feels that way from an outside perspective, she’s probably not wrong.
I told Tennouji directly, but learning all sorts of things from her is genuinely enjoyable.
Hearing my words, Asahi gave a gentle smile.
“I bet Tennouji enjoys being around you too, Tomonari-kun.”
That’d make me happy, but…
No, it’s probably not just about me. Tennouji always seems to be having fun at the Academy. Even during our group tea party, she looked like she was in high spirits.
So why should she have to give that up?
Is Tennouji unaware of what she’s sacrificing with this marriage arrangement?
If that’s the case, then what I need to do is—
That afternoon, after school.
I was studying with Tennouji at the café next to the cafeteria.
“The proficiency exam is almost here, isn’t it?”
“…Yeah.”
Since no one else was around, I spoke to Tennouji in my usual casual tone.
With the exam so close, there weren’t many students lingering at the Academy after school. Most students at Kiou Academy probably have home environments perfect for studying, so there’s no need to stay behind.
“I’ve already discussed things with you before, but I’ll explain the situation just to be clear.”
Setting down her mechanical pencil, Tennouji spoke.
“I’ve been permitted to stay enrolled until the next proficiency exam. So, as planned, I will absolutely defeat Konohana Hinako in this exam. And… I’ll make sure there’s no reason for me to stay at this Academy.”
My eyes widened at her words.
“That means…”
“…Yes, exactly.”
If the marriage arrangement is finalized, Tennouji will have to leave the Academy for good.
Yet, she says nothing about it.
She’s different from Hinako. Tennouji is strong-willed, able to hold herself back, so she can’t just come out and say, “Help me,” face-to-face.
“Please don’t look so worried.”
Suddenly, Tennouji glanced at my face and said.
“Contributing to the Tennouji family is my happiness. That’s why I—”
“—Do you really believe that?”
I stared straight at Tennouji as I spoke.
She fell silent.
“…Tennouji. Could you make time for just one day tomorrow?”
Her eyes widened, but I continued.
“You said before that you’re curious about how commoners live, right?”
“Yes, I did say something like that.”
Though Tennouji is adopted, she’s been raised in the Tennouji household since she was young, so she’s unfamiliar with the lives of commoners like us. That’s why she seemed so intrigued by our lifestyle.
“How about taking a break before the exam? As a thank-you for everything, I’d love to show you how commoners unwind, if you’re up for it.”
It might’ve been a sudden suggestion.
But Tennouji considered it seriously for a moment before saying,
“Very well. Since it’s a rare opportunity, I’ll join you.”
She smiled as she spoke.
A rare opportunity… It’s as if she’s making a memory of her time as a student at this Academy.
If that’s how Tennouji feels, I’ll do my best to make sure it doesn’t come to that.
The following weekend.
After convincing Hinako and Shizune-san to get permission to go out, I waited for Tennouji at the station.
“…Now that I think about it, it’s been a while since I’ve had a day off.”
It was just past noon. This might be the first time since becoming a caretaker that I’ve gone out purely for fun, unrelated to work. Since taking on the role, I’ve spent most of my days off studying, so today I feel a bit restless, like I have too much time on my hands.
And… now that I think about it, today’s a date.
Embarrassingly enough, I’ve never been on a date before.
It’s a bit late, but I’m starting to feel nervous.
“Sorry to keep you waiting.”
A voice called out from the side.
I turned to see Tennouji standing there, but—
“Tennouji, what’s with that outfit…?”
“It’s a disguise. You’re taking me to places someone like me wouldn’t normally visit, right? This is to avoid standing out.”
Tennouji had let down her usually curled blonde hair, wearing it straight with a light blue beret. Her outfit was a white blouse paired with a blue skirt, a calmer and more refined look compared to the striking presence she has at the Academy.
It’s an outfit that blends into the city. Her disguise is a complete success.
That said, Tennouji’s natural beauty shines through. She’s always stunning, but today’s look has a different kind of charm. No matter what, her striking appearance draws attention from passersby. It seems Tennouji can’t help but stand out, no matter how she dresses.
“Um… does it look strange?”
Tennouji asked, her cheeks slightly flushed.
Oops. I stared too long.
“No, it’s not strange… It’s just, it feels fresh.”
“You’ve seen me with my hair down at my house, haven’t you?”
“It’s not just the hair. The whole vibe is different from usual…”
Too embarrassed to say outright that it’s fresh and cute, I fumbled my words.
Tennouji seemed to pick up on my feelings and flashed a confident smile.
“So, which do you prefer—today’s me or the usual me?”
That’s a tough question.
After thinking it over carefully, I answered.
“…If I had to choose, I’d say the usual Tennouji.”
“I see. So this look isn’t to your taste, then.”
“No, that’s not it. The usual you just feels… more like yourself, more natural.”
Scratching my cheek, I explained, and Tennouji’s face lit up with a happy smile.
“You’re right. Honestly, this outfit feels a bit restrictive. The real me would wear something a bit more… glamorous!”
Placing a hand on her chest, Tennouji declared boldly.
“I’m free to take you wherever today, right? It’s not dangerous, but I’m planning to take you to places that might not suit a refined Tennouji lady.”
“That’s no issue. That’s why I’m in disguise. Even if someone sees me, as long as my identity isn’t revealed, the Tennouji family’s reputation is safe. I plan to enjoy myself to the fullest today.”
Tennouji smirked, as if boasting that her disguise was flawless.
“Now that I think about it, I’m surprised your family allowed this. No escorts, either?”
“Yes. My father and mother are very open-minded.”
Tennouji said with a hint of pride.
“On the other hand, did you manage to get permission without any trouble, Izuki-san?”
“Well… saying there was no trouble would be a lie…”
Shizune-san has been less restrictive about my actions lately, so she agreed quickly.
The problem was Hinako. When I told her I wanted to go out with Tennouji alone, she got ridiculously sulky. I explained that I wanted to thank Tennouji for all her help, and she reluctantly agreed, but not without grumbling, “You better make it up to me,” repeatedly.
“By the way, Izuki-san.”
Tennouji asked in a small voice.
“Is it… all right to consider this a date?”
“Ngh—!”
I froze, unable to respond.
I’d been trying so hard not to think about it, and now she’s the one bringing it up.
“W-Well, I guess it is…”
When I admitted it, Tennouji’s cheeks flushed faintly.
“…This is my first time going on a date with a gentleman.”
She said, looking up at me with a teasing glint in her eyes.
“So… I’m looking forward to it, you know?”
With a slightly mischievous smile, but eyes full of anticipation, Tennouji spoke.
Her attitude reminded me of the strict lessons she’s given me before.
If I think about it, I’ve always spent time alone with her.
There’s no need to overthink this now.
“Yeah. I’ll show you how commoners have fun to the fullest.”
I’m going to enjoy today to the max, too.
With Tennouji by my side, I headed into the city.
“What is this!? What is this!? What is this—!?”
Tennouji panicked, frantically spinning the steering wheel.
I glanced at her out of the corner of my eye, calmly tilting my wheel to the right.
The arcade I hadn’t visited in ages still had the same vibe as before. A mix of noises filled my ears, with kids and adults of all ages playing around us.
We were playing a popular racing game. On the edge of the screen, Tennouji’s car veered off the track and crashed into the guardrail.
“Ahh!?”
Ignoring Tennouji’s shriek, I cruised comfortably in first place.
“—Yes! First place!”
Releasing the wheel, I glanced at Tennouji sitting next to me.
“And Tennouji, you…”
“…Dead last.”
Seeing Tennouji visibly deflate, I couldn’t help but burst out laughing.
“Don’t laugh! I was trying my hardest!”
“S-Sorry. But yelling ‘That’s a manners violation!’ at a thrown banana in a game was just too funny… Pfft.”
“I said, stop laughing!”
It wasn’t just me—everyone around us was chuckling too.
Tennouji recomposed herself and started looking at other games. She still seemed frustrated from her loss, but her curiosity was clearly piqued as she observed the other machines.
Bringing Tennouji to the arcade was the right call. Like Hinako, she seems clueless about this kind of entertainment.
Today, I should be able to give her a taste of a whole new world.
“Izuki-san, what’s this Japanese drum game?”
“Taiko no Tatsujin, huh? It’s a rhythm game. Let’s give it a try.”
Rhythm game? Tennouji tilted her head as I inserted a hundred-yen coin.
I explained the controls and picked a song right away.
The moment the game started, Tennouji was thrown into chaos.
“Tch, this isn’t proper music performance!”
Where did her usual confident demeanor go? Tennouji flailed her drumsticks in a flustered panic.
Finally, our scores appeared on the screen.
“Alright, another win for me.”
“Urgh…! If this were a real taiko drum, I’d definitely be better than you…!”
That was a uniquely entertaining sore loser’s howl.
Tennouji immediately started hunting for the next game.
“Izuki-san, what’s this one!?”
“Oh, air hockey. That’s nostalgic.”
“This thing here… is it a small flying disc? Do I throw it?”
“Wait, wait! I’ll explain the rules!”
I stopped Tennouji from tossing the puck and explained how to play.
Is she clueless or just overly knowledgeable? It’s hard to tell. But this unbalanced knowledge feels so characteristic of an upper-class Ojou-sama. Hinako’s similar in that way.
We played air hockey together.
Naturally, I won.
“Next! Let’s go!”
Tennouji started searching for another game.
“That’s… horse racing, right?”
“A horse racing game, huh? Wanna give it a shot?”
“No way! Betting on horses is for people over twenty!”
“It’s just a game, so it’s fine.”
Holding back a laugh, I reassured the panicking Tennouji.
The user registration was a bit of a hassle, but we got into the game quickly.
“I lost again…!”
“Well, this one’s mostly luck…”
Tennouji’s luck doesn’t seem to be on her side today.
She was about to look for another game, but we decided to take a quick break first.
After buying drinks for both of us from a vending machine, we sat on a bench near the stairs.
“Izuki-san, did you used to come here a lot?”
“More like I worked here. Sometimes, when friends dropped by, I’d get the manager’s permission to play a little.”
That’s why I’d never lose to a complete beginner like Tennouji.
“An arcade… It’s such a thrilling place. This is my first time visiting somewhere with this kind of atmosphere.”
Well, duh, I thought to myself.
This place isn’t exactly known for its great security. Tennouji’s parents might be lenient, but someone like Kagen-san would never let Hinako come to a place like this.
Still, there are experiences you can only get here.
Tennouji seems to have been charmed by the excitement, reacting to the games with the pure joy and frustration of a kid.
“…Hm?”
I suddenly felt like someone was watching me.
Behind the UFO catcher, outside the window, someone was staring at me.
The girl was wearing the uniform of the high school I used to attend. She glared at me like I was a pest, making me break out in a cold sweat.
“Oh, crap.”
How could I not have been more cautious?
This area used to be part of my daily life. Of course, there’s a chance I’d run into someone I know.
That girl—my childhood friend Yuri—was someone I last spoke to on the day I became a caretaker, over a month ago. Even then, it was just a quick text exchange, not a proper conversation. I haven’t contacted her since, and… she looks seriously pissed.
But, to my surprise, Yuri glanced between me and Tennouji, then turned on her heel and left without a word.
“What’s wrong?”
“…Nothing.”
Contrary to my expectations, Yuri left quietly.
It’s a bit concerning, but right now, I need to focus on Tennouji.
“So, how about bowling next? Or maybe karaoke’s more typical?”
As Hinako’s caretaker, today’s expenses are pocket change for me.
Bowling or karaoke—either works. I just want to give Tennouji some rare experiences.
As I was thinking that,
“…We’re doing it all.”
Tennouji declared in a strained voice.
“We’re doing it all! I won’t let you escape until I win!”
I might’ve stirred her competitive spirit a bit too much.
But her request was exactly what I wanted, so I nodded and said, “Alright.”
Before I knew it, the sky was draped in twilight.
The sun had set, and it was just before seven in the evening.
Stretching lightly to loosen up, I strolled toward the station.
“It’s been a while since I’ve played this much…”
Muttering almost to myself, I glanced at Tennouji.
“Tennouji-san, how was today?”
“I’m in the worst possible mood!!”
Tennouji-san lets out a dramatic yell, her frustration spilling over.
“In the end, I didn’t win a single game, and I got utterly crushed at bowling!”
“But karaoke was a pretty close match, wasn’t it?”
“Scoring high on nursery rhymes doesn’t exactly satisfy me!”
I dominated the arcade games and bowling, so I figured karaoke would be a breeze too, but it wasn’t quite like that. Apparently, Tennouji-san had taken voice training, and her singing was genuinely impressive.
That said, her song repertoire was limited. She seemed well-versed in classical music, but she was clueless about the trendy bands we usually listen to. So, in the end, she had no choice but to sing nursery rhymes everyone knows. The humiliated look on her face as she did is still vividly burned into my memory.
“You seem like someone who loves a good challenge, Tennouji-san, so I planned today with that in mind… I’m just glad you had fun.”
“Yes… thanks to you, my blood hasn’t boiled like this in ages.”
Tennouji-san, trembling with frustration, clenched her fists as she spoke.
“What now? Wanna hit up somewhere else?”
“I’d love nothing more, but… it’s getting rather late, isn’t it?”
“…Yeah.”
I nod in agreement as Tennouji-san gazes up at the darkening sky.
“Alright, then, shall we call it a day?”
Hearing my casual remark, Tennouji-san visibly flinches.
“…That’s a cruel way to put it.”
She stops in her tracks, staring intently at the ground.
It seems Tennouji-san really was thinking of today as a final memory-making moment before leaving the Academy.
But whether today is truly the end depends entirely on her own choices.
“If you refuse the engagement, we can pick up where we left off anytime.”
“…Even if you say that, my resolve won’t waver.”
Tennouji-san’s voice trembles as she speaks.
“Indeed, today was a truly enjoyable time. But when it comes to whether that benefits the Tennouji family—”
“Is having fun not enough?”
Cutting her off, I press forward.
“Isn’t that alone reason enough to turn down the engagement?”
Caught off guard by my words, Tennouji-san’s eyes widen in confusion.
“W-What…? Of course not. Today was about me, personally. The engagement, on the other hand, is about the Tennouji family’s affairs. The scale of the two is simply too different.”
Passersby glance curiously at us as we abruptly stop in the middle of the street.
Facing Tennouji-san, who bites her lip, I declare clearly:
“Then, Tennouji-san—are you saying you’d throw away everything for the sake of the Tennouji family?”
Tennouji-san falls silent, her lips sealed.
“I can’t even imagine the kind of pressure you’re under. But after meeting your parents, one thing became crystal clear to me… They want you to be happy, Tennouji-san. Not the Tennouji family, but you—Tennouji Mirei.”
When I visited her home, her mother, Hanami-san, asked me, “Is Mirei enjoying her time at the Academy?”
From the start, that woman wasn’t concerned with appearances or status. All she cared about was whether her daughter was having fun at the Academy… That’s what she truly wanted.
“That’s… just your imagination.”
Tennouji-san mutters, her face still lowered.
“Both Father and Mother are kind, so they don’t force anything on me. But deep down, I’m sure they want me to live for the family’s sake—”
“—That’s nonsense!”
I can’t let those words slide, no matter what.
Right now, I’m a little angry.
Why—why doesn’t she see it?
“Dyeing your hair blonde! Talking in that eccentric way all the time! Do you honestly think that’s for the Tennouji family’s benefit?”
“Wha—!? W-W-What…!?”
Her face flushes red, as if to say, You’re bringing that up now?
When she was young, Tennouji-san genuinely believed those things would benefit her family. Now, as an adult, she’s chosen to stick to those quirks out of her own will.
“And yet, Masatsugu-san and Hanami-san haven’t said a single word against it, have they!?”
“—!”
Tennouji-san catches her breath. Maybe I let my emotions get the better of me, unloading like that. Still, I have no intention of taking back what I said.
This isn’t like Hinako’s situation.
Hinako was suffering under the weight of the Konohana family’s expectations and Kagen-san’s decisions, tormented by unfair circumstances. But Tennouji-san’s case is different—it’s not about injustice. Tennouji-san is simply caught in her own self-imposed chains.
And that’s something I just can’t stand, no matter what.
“Those people… they’re putting Tennouji-san’s feelings before their family’s affairs.”
I state the obvious truth, plain as day.
“Are you truly facing their feelings head-on, Tennouji-san?”
Unlike me, Tennouji-san still has the chance to talk things out properly with her parents.
Hiding that thought deep in my chest, I speak my mind.
The serious gaze of the boy standing before her pierces deeply into Mirei’s heart.
Tennouji Mirei, struck by Izuki’s words, recalls moments from her childhood.
“Mirei, we just want you to be happy.”
Her adoptive parents said those words to her several times. It was their declaration of facing her as parents, yet also their kindness in not wanting to bind her. That sentiment had reached her even as a young child.
Because of that, Mirei always wanted to repay the kindness of her gentle father and mother.
Upon learning of the Tennouji family’s prestige, Mirei realized how she could show her gratitude.
“Mother, if I study hard, will that help the Tennouji family?”
As a child, Mirei asked her mother.
Her mother, delighted, answered, “Yes.”
“Father, if I become famous, will that help the Tennouji family?”
As a child, Mirei asked her father.
He laughed heartily and said, “That’s right.”
From then on, Mirei threw herself into her studies, dyed her hair, changed her speech, and began walking the path of a Tennouji family heiress. At first, she failed often. Her test scores were average at best, and she wasn’t particularly popular. But through relentless, desperate effort, Mirei became known as an exceptionally outstanding student. She worked so hard it felt like coughing up blood, until the old her faded into obscurity.
“Mirei, you’re always studying late into the night… You’re free to live a little more freely, you know?”
One day, her mother said those words.
“No need to worry. This is the path I’ve chosen for myself.”
Mirei replied with a smile. Her mother nodded, saying, “I see,” but her expression was tinged with concern.
Perhaps she was pushing herself too hard. But surely, they’d understand eventually. All she wanted was to repay the parents who took her in.
“Mirei, it’s good to mind your manners, but it’s okay to relax sometimes, you know?”
“There’s no issue. As a daughter of the Tennouji family, I’ll manage this much.”
When had it started?
Before she knew it, Mirei was shaking her head without a moment’s hesitation whenever her parents asked such things.
(Oh… I see.)
The words of the boy before her, Izuki, echo in her mind.
Are you really facing their feelings head-on?—those words shake the very foundation of Mirei’s beliefs.
(I… I was running away.)
She lacked the confidence to be their daughter.
So she chose the path of becoming the Tennouji family’s heiress.
Because it was clearer. Getting good grades, carrying herself with elegance—it was far easier than living up to her parents’ true feelings.
This boy before her made her realize she’d been running away from those feelings.
“Why…”
The word slips from her lips before she can stop it.
“Why… does Izuki-san care so much about me…?”
He’s not family, so why does he face her so earnestly?
To Mirei’s question, Izuki answers with a serious expression.
“Because… I want you to live as happily as possible, Tennouji-san.”
Without a hint of embarrassment, he declares it boldly.
“If you think today’s experiences were precious… please, don’t throw them away.”
She recalls everything she experienced today.
The arcade, bowling, karaoke… they might be unnecessary for a Tennouji heiress. But for Tennouji Mirei, they were different.
Today, she had fun—truly, from the bottom of her heart.
“…You swindler.”
Mirei murmurs, her voice trembling.
It wasn’t just her parents.
There was someone else—someone who thought so seriously about Tennouji Mirei, not the Tennouji heiress, but her as a person.
And that’s why he made her realize it.
“Swindler, swindler, swindler… You really are a silver-tongued man, aren’t you…?”
She desperately holds back the tears welling at the corners of her eyes, refusing to let them fall.
Her emotions are a mess. Right now, she’s probably behaving in a way utterly unbefitting a Tennouji heiress.
But that’s okay.
Because this person doesn’t see her that way.
“…I’ll let you deceive me.”
Wiping the tears from her eyes with her finger, Mirei smiles.
“I’ll refuse the marriage proposal. …After all, I can’t possibly let go of something this precious.”
“…I see.”
Izuki visibly relaxes, relief washing over him.
Just seeing that expression might make refusing the engagement worthwhile.
“Well, honestly, I’m not entirely confident that today’s experiences were that precious—”
“That’s not it.”
It’s not just about today’s experiences being precious.
Good grief… is he sharp or just hopelessly dense? She can’t quite tell.
“It’s you… you’re the precious one.”
