Chapter 2: The Man Who Can Read Hearts
Morning sunlight spilled through the gap in the curtains.
The moment I woke up, something felt off. The sensation against my back wasn’t like my usual bed.
“…Right.”
This wasn’t the Konohana family’s mansion.
I realized that what I now considered “normal” had shifted from the days spent in this house to the time spent in that mansion. Caught between a sense of unease and familiarity, my mind slowly began to awaken.
The place looked like it had undergone some cleaning or minor renovations, but the view from where I lay was almost identical to before. The ceiling I’d gazed at thousands of times since childhood stretched out above me.
“Are you awake?”
As I headed to the bathroom to wash my face, someone called out to me.
Turning around, I saw Shizune-san in casual clothes, looking at me.
“Good morning. You’re up early.”
“It’s a habit. I’d say you’re the early riser, Izuki-san.”
It was seven in the morning. If I had no plans, I could’ve slept in a bit longer, but habit had woken me up.
Ever since I started working part-time in high school, I’d often been up at this hour. Mostly for newspaper deliveries.
“Shizune-san, are you working today?”
“Yes, though it’s only in the afternoon.”
Apparently, she could take it easy in the morning.
Good. It seemed Shizune-san would get a bit of a breather today.
“Should we wake Hinako?”
“…Let’s let her sleep in today. She worked hard yesterday.”
I agreed.
Careful to minimize the creaking of the floor, I walked slowly toward the bathroom.
After washing my face, I caught sight of Shizune-san again and froze for a moment.
“What’s wrong?”
“Oh, uh… it’s just, everything feels kind of… fresh.”
Shizune-san almost always wore her maid outfit, so seeing her in anything else was rare. Unlike Hinako, who prefer cute and fluffy loungewear, Shizune-san’s simple sweatshirt gave off a practical vibe.
“…Please don’t stare too much.”
Her reaction was refreshing in its own way, and it piqued my curiosity, but I averted my gaze before she got upset.
Shizune-san adjusted the position of the partition slightly, expanding the shared living space.
Following her lead, I moved the table that had been pushed against the wall to the center.
“Well then, shall we prepare breakfast?”
“Oh, I’ve already made something simple.”
“Really?”
“I prepared it while making curry yesterday. It’s nothing fancy, though.”
With that, I opened the fridge.
I took out the plates I’d stored inside.
“Sandwiches. Tuna and egg.”
I’d made them while the curry was simmering, looking up recipes on my smartphone.
“Thank you.”
I’d made enough for everyone, so I sat across from Shizune-san and started eating. There was a portion for Hinako too, but if she slept past noon, I’d probably eat hers.
The sandwiches weren’t bad, if I do say so myself, though they relied heavily on the ingredients. High-end tuna cans and fancy bread did most of the work.
“You’re going to check out the school today, right?”
“That’s the plan.”
“Have you thought about how you’ll explain your current situation if you run into old classmates?”
I hadn’t thought about it at all.
I’d left school at an awkward time, so if I met someone, they’d definitely ask what I’d been up to.
I’d need to figure out how to explain things… but to avoid causing trouble for the Konohana family, it might be better not to meet anyone at all. No matter how I explained it, there was always a chance I’d slip up.
“…Maybe I shouldn’t go?”
“If you want to be absolutely cautious, that’s true. But if you stick to that mindset, you’d have to cut ties with everyone you’ve ever met, Izuki-san. That’s a bit too harsh, so Kagen-sama has given his permission.”
She was right. Even for the sake of the Konohana family, completely severing ties with all my old friends felt like too much.
“You can say you’re attending Kiou Academy. As for your relationship with Ojou-sama, just say you’re classmates.”
“What about how I ended up at the Academy?”
“You can say you were adopted.”
The story about being adopted by the president of a mid-tier IT company would come in handy here too.
“We’re getting used to this, aren’t we?”
I gave a wry smile at Shizune-san’s comment.
I felt like some kind of con artist.
Glancing at Shizune-san, I noticed she’d stopped eating.
Was it not good? I thought it was fine, but compared to the meals at the mansion, it was obviously inferior.
“Sorry, was it not to your taste?”
“No… I was just thinking that a breakfast like this isn’t bad once in a while.”
A faint smile played on her lips as she spoke.
Shizune-san carefully chewed and swallowed her sandwich. She didn’t seem to be lying.
“What was your life like before you became a maid, Shizune-san?”
“Pretty normal. My family was a bit well-off, and I went to a slightly better school, but our lifestyle wasn’t much different from an average household. …So, meals like this feel familiar.”
That was new information.
Come to think of it, I rarely had the chance to talk with Shizune-san one-on-one like this.
I realized how little I knew about her.
“Thanks for the meal. It was delicious.”
With the refined grace that rivaled even Hinako’s acting, Shizune-san finished her breakfast. She stood up silently, stacking my empty plate atop hers.
“I’ll wash the dishes.”
“I’ll help.”
“There’s only two plates. I can handle it.”
Shizune-san moved to the kitchen with practiced ease.
She washed the dishes, wiped them dry with a clean cloth, and placed them on the shelf.
I picked up one of the plates.
“…It’s sparkling clean.”
Incredible.
Who knew dishwashing could vary so much depending on the person?
“I’m not losing to you yet, Izuki-san.”
“…I’ll never beat you.”
“Exactly. I don’t plan on losing.”
I’d said it half-jokingly, but Shizune-san nodded as if it were obvious.
Still, her expression seemed to soften, almost like she was enjoying herself.
◆
Until early afternoon, I focused intently on studying.
I checked on Hinako occasionally, but she hadn’t stirred, likely sound asleep. I’d worried the bed here might be less comfortable than the plush ones at the mansion, but then I remembered Hinako could sleep anywhere, anytime, so it probably wasn’t an issue.
Shizune-san had mentioned she had work in the afternoon, but she’d been out since morning for a meeting with security, and it had been about three hours. …Maybe she was giving me space to study?
Thanks to both of them, I studied in peace and got through about half of my daily prep and review. I’d finish the rest tonight, so—
At four in the afternoon.
Hinako and I headed to the high school I used to attend.
“We’re here.”
Walking the old commute already stirred nostalgia, but standing in front of the school brought an indescribable wave of sentimentality.
“This is… the school Izuki went to?”
“Yeah.”
The green-painted school gate, the sports field, and the school building beyond it. The high school where I’d spent a year stood before me.
Compared to the three years I spent at elementary and middle school, my time here was just one year. But seeing it now, all sorts of memories flooded back. Late nights battling sleep to study for exams, pushing my body to its limits at the sports festival—come to think of it, I’d experienced all that here in my first year.
“What’s it like, seeing a normal school?”
I asked Hinako, standing beside me.
She stared at the school with a dreamy gaze and answered.
“…It’s small.”
“…This is what’s normal.”
Kiou Academy was just too big.
Compared to Kiou, this school was naturally smaller and, to be honest, a bit run-down. Why were the signs and crosswalks around schools always so worn out? The paint on the gate was peeling in places too.
A private school might be different, but public schools were generally like this.
“Middle school… was it like this too?”
“Yeah. Middle school, elementary school—they all had a similar vibe.”
Compared to Kiou Academy, they were all pretty much the same.
This view really drove home how special that school was.
“It looks… cramped, doesn’t it? But it’s surprisingly enough. There’s no café here, no ornamental gardens.”
Kiou Academy had facilities no ordinary school would. Not only that, but its library and gym were massive. The range of subjects and sports students were expected to master was far broader than at a regular school. That’s why it had such sprawling grounds.
But for an average student, a place like this was plenty.
While I was here, I never felt deprived as a student. The environment for studying was solid, and the area was safe. For a struggling student like me, I’d had a fairly peaceful time.
“Izuki… you spent your days here.”
Beside me, lost in nostalgia, Hinako murmured with a wistful air.
Her slender hand gently brushed the iron bars of the school gate.
“Is… school already in session?”
“No, it’s still summer break. The kids here now are probably in clubs.”
From the field, it looked like the track, handball, and baseball teams were practicing. If I listened closely, I could hear brass instruments, so the band was likely rehearsing inside the school building.
“Were you in a club, Izuki?”
“Nah, I was in the going-home club.”
“Going-home club?”
“Means I wasn’t in any club.”
“…Going-home club, but not in a club?”
Hinako tilted her head, puzzled.
It seemed the term “going-home club” wasn’t in Ojou-sama’s dictionary.
“…Izuki?”
Just then, someone called out to me.
The voice sounded faintly familiar, and when I turned around—
“Yo, it’s Izuki!”
“No way! It’s been forever!”
Before I knew it, four people—two guys and two girls—were standing nearby.
I recognized their faces immediately.
My old classmates—former friends from my class.
“…Been a while. What’s up?”
“We were just chilling at a park nearby, playing games. Grabbed some food and were about to head home, but thought we’d swing by the school.”
“We were studying in the library. Ran into these guys on the way out.”
Apparently, the four of them had only just met up moments ago.
That explained why the guys were in casual clothes while the girls were in uniform.
“But seriously, dude! Where’ve you been?!”
“Yeah! You just vanished when we hit second year. We were freaking out!”
The four of them closed in, firing questions.
“Haha, yeah, sorry about that…”
Figured it’d come to this.
I’d love to dodge the topic, but it didn’t seem like I’d get off that easily. Well, fair enough. If I were in their shoes, I’d be asking too.
“By the way, who’s she…?”
Hinako’s presence was what finally calmed their onslaught.
As one of the girls voiced the question, the other three turned their eyes to Hinako.
Switching into Ojou-sama mode, Hinako flashed a radiant smile.
“Nice to meet you. I’m Konohana Hinako.”
A weird hwa! sound escaped one of the guys’ mouths.
It wasn’t just the guys. Hinako’s refined, delicate grace left the girls staring, captivated.
Even the students at Kiou Academy saw her as untouchable. To regular folks like us, Hinako’s poise was so stunning it left us dazed.
“Yo, Izuki, c’mere a sec!”
The guys snapped out of it and yanked my arm.
“Dude! Who’s that insanely cute girl?!”
“Where’d you meet her?! Spill! Hook me up, man!”
These guys… they really haven’t changed a bit.
“Guys are the worst.”
“…I mean, I kinda get it.”
The girls shot the swooning guys disdainful looks.
Still, they seemed to acknowledge Hinako’s elegance.
Figuring now was the time to explain, I turned to the four of them.
“Actually, I’m attending Kiou Academy now.”
“Kiou Academy? That super elite school?!”
“The one only rich kids get into?!”
I nodded.
Like me, they all knew Kiou’s reputation.
“You guys probably know my family’s had it rough. I was supposed to just drop out, but then a company president offered to adopt me. That’s how I ended up at Kiou.”
“Adopted? That actually happens?”
In my case, it’s a lie, but Tennouji-san’s example proves it’s real enough.
“And this is Konohana-san, my classmate at the Academy.”
Hinako gave a quiet bow.
That should cover all their questions for now.
“Just classmates, huh?”
“Just classmates. We ran into each other earlier, so I figured I’d show her around my hometown.”
No way I’d mention we’re living together.
I was used to this kind of dodging by now and said it without flinching.
My old classmates looked back and forth between me and Hinako, their eyes half-believing, half-skeptical.
“Kiou Academy, huh… Well, compared to the worst stuff we imagined, that’s way better.”
“Worst stuff?”
I tilted my head, and one of the guys nodded.
“Dude, you disappeared so weirdly, there were all kinds of rumors. Like you were on a tuna fishing boat or living off the land in the Amazon.”
“What the…?”
Wait, now that I think about it, when I ran into Yuri during summer classes, she mentioned something like that. There was also some weird rumor about me being sold at a slave auction or something.
“Standing around here’s getting us nowhere. I was gonna hang at this guy’s place after this. Wanna come, Izuki?”
“Yeah, come on! It’s been forever. I’ll even treat you to dinner.”
The guys invited me along.
Meanwhile, Hinako was getting swarmed by the girls.
“Konohana-san, right? Hey, wanna grab food with us?!”
“Yeah! We’ve got so many questions!”
“Uh, um, I…”
I could probably handle it, but for Hinako in Ojou-sama mode, turning them down seemed tricky.
Unlike the refined students at Kiou, these guys and girls were refreshingly shameless. To me, that was normal, but to Hinako, it probably felt pushy.
“Hey, you lot!”
A shrill voice rang out from a distance.
Turning toward it, I saw a tiny figure in the distance, like a speck.
As it got closer, I recognized the familiar face of a girl.
“Yo, it’s Hirano!”
“Yuri! Long time no see!”
“Yup, yup, long time no see, huh!”
Before I can say anything, our former classmates call out to Yuri.
Come to think of it, it’s summer break now. This might be a long-awaited reunion for them too.
Yuri quickly wedges herself between us and our former classmates.
“Come on, crowding them like that’s gonna overwhelm them. Izuki’s one thing, but Konohana-san isn’t used to this kind of vibe.”
Isn’t that “Izuki’s one thing” bit a little unnecessary?
“Wait, Yuri-cchi, you know Konohana-san?”
“We ran into each other by chance at my part-time job.”
“Ohh, Karuizawa, right? Yeah, I can totally see an Ojou-sama being there.”
Seems like everyone knows Yuri was working a resort job.
“Anyway, these two are coming to my place after this, so we’ll catch up with you guys another time.”
“Whaaat?! Don’t hog them all to yourself!”
“This was the plan all along! Alright, shoo, shoo!”
Yuri waves her hands dismissively, pressuring our former classmates to back off.
Grumbling things like “Fine, whatever,” they read the room and turn to leave.
On their way out, two guys sneak over to me and pull me aside for a moment.
“Izuki. You know, Yuri’s been pretty lonely, even if she doesn’t show it.”
“…Yeah, seems like it.”
I’d vaguely sensed it when we reunited during summer classes.
Yuri seems to treasure the time we spent together more than I realized.
“If you keep being so cold to her, I might just go after her myself, y’know.”
“I’m already reflecting on it, so cut it with the jokes.”
Thinking what an idiot this guy is for saying dumb stuff till the very end, I let out a sigh.
For some reason, both of them widen their eyes.
It’s like they’re saying my reaction is the weird one.
“Just so you know, Yuri’s actually pretty popular, dude.”
“Huh?”
What did he just say…?
“Don’t ‘huh’ me. She’s super friendly with everyone, always listens to people’s problems, and she’s great at being considerate, like just now. Of course she’s popular.”
“Yeah, yeah. Plus, she’s honestly pretty cute.”
The guy next to him nods in agreement.
“Is that… so?”
Now that they mention it, Yuri might have all the qualities that make her appealing to guys. Besides what they said, she’s a great cook, dependable, and surprisingly feminine in her own way.
I knew Yuri was well-liked by everyone, but I hadn’t thought of it in a romantic sense.
“Izuki, what’re you doing?”
“N-Nothing, nothing at all!”
Called by Yuri, I head toward her, brushing it off.
As I walk away, my idiot friends snicker, but I pointedly ignore them.
“…Phew. Now we can finally relax.”
Once we’re away from our former classmates and it’s just the three of us, Yuri says this.
“Yuri, thanks for the save. But why are you here—”
“No ‘why’ or ‘how’ about it! Today was supposed to be my first day working at Konohana-san’s place, and I was kinda excited! But when I got there, why the heck weren’t you guys around?!”
Oh, right… now I remember.
Today was Yuri’s big first day working at the Konohana household. We’d originally planned to head to her place together afterward, since it was a special occasion.
“…Wait, didn’t I tell you we changed it to meeting up here?”
“What, seriously?”
Yuri hurriedly pulls out her smartphone.
“…I was so pumped I totally missed it.”
“C’mon, seriously…”
Just to be sure, I pull out my phone and check.
Sure enough, the message isn’t marked as read. I probably should’ve followed up when she didn’t reply.
“Well, anyway, after my shift, Shizune-san the maid told me where you guys were, so I came here. …You’re back at your old place now, huh?”
“Yeah, I’ll be in town for a while.”
“Hmm. You’re gonna have to fill me in on all that.”
Both Yuri and I live within walking distance of our high school, so we’ve been tied to this town since elementary school.
In my case, I picked a nearby high school to save on commuting costs, but it was pure luck that its academic standards were decent. That’s probably why Yuri chose it too.
We walk along, taking in the familiar sights of the town.
“That café wasn’t here before, was it?”
“It relocated. It used to be inside the station, remember?”
“Oh, that one. So what’s in that spot now?”
“A bakery. Gets a big line in the evenings.”
It’s in the station, so people probably grab stuff on their way home from work or school.
Even in just a few months, this town keeps changing.
It’s probably been like that even before I started attending Kiou Academy. When you’re in the thick of it, you don’t notice, but step back and look once in a while, and you see things you missed.
“Alright, we’re almost there.”
We pass through the shopping street I walked down yesterday, a short walk from the station.
There it is—the familiar storefront.
“Welcome to Hiramaru Diner!!”
Yuri greets us with high energy.
◆
We arrive at the diner around 5 p.m. Since there are still empty seats, we relax for a bit inside and decide to eat once the sun sets.
Perfect timing, since I’m getting hungry.
The aroma drifting from the kitchen teases my empty stomach. This atmosphere, this smell—it’s been a while.
“Here ya go, two ginger pork sets.”
After a few minutes at our table, Yuri, wearing an apron with the diner’s name over her casual clothes, brings our food.
“Thanks.”
“Izuki, you sure you didn’t want the hamburger?”
“I had that during summer classes. Thought I’d try something different today.”
Yuri brought ginger pork to the barbecue, but the Ojou-sama girls, including Hinako, went wild over it, so I didn’t even get a bite.
“Let’s dig in.”
I clasp my hands together and start eating.
I pile some sauce-coated pork onto my rice and take a big bite.
“Man, this is good. Did you make this, Yuri?”
“Just the soup. Dad did most of it.”
In that case, I’ll try the soup too.
The soup that comes with Hiramaru Diner’s sets varies—miso, Chinese-style, and more—but the one with the ginger pork is a simple broth with green onions and wakame. Since the pork has a bold flavor, they pair it with something light.
The soup is easy to drink and complements the meal perfectly.
“This is great.”
“You don’t have to go out of your way to compliment it. …Though I’m happy to hear it.”
She doesn’t seem entirely displeased.
It’s genuinely delicious, so I can’t help but praise it. No flattery here.
“What about you, Konohana-san? I hope it’s to your liking.”
“It’s absolutely delicious. Truly delicious… so gooood.”
Oh no.
It’s so good that the real Hinako is slipping out.
Luckily, Yuri doesn’t notice the change and just looks relieved, saying, “Good to hear.”
“Maybe I’ll eat too. …Dad, kaki fry set for me!”
“Coming right up!”
Yuri’s dad responds loudly from the kitchen.
“Yuri, how was your shift today?”
“It was tough, in a lot of ways. …Shizune-san gets pretty strict when it comes to work, huh?”
“Yeah… she really does.”
Finally, someone else who gets how tough she can be…
Feeling a bit sentimental, I nod deeply.
“But it was so educational!”
Yuri’s eyes sparkle as she speaks.
“I’ve never cooked in a kitchen that fancy before. I got to make refined dishes at the resort job, but Konohana-san’s place is on another level. They measure spices with scientific precision, and they know every tiny detail about the ingredients, like scholars. …And adjusting the temperature of the cutlery based on the dish? I knew that kind of technique existed, but seeing people actually do it was a first.”
Sounds like she had an amazing experience.
When it comes to cooking, Yuri’s intense. She pursues what she needs with fierce determination and cuts out anything she deems unnecessary. It’s rare to see her this excited.
“Kaki fry set, here you go!”
“Thanks.”
Yuri gives a quick thanks to her dad as he brings her plate.
Then, her dad glances at my plate.
“Izuki, that’s not enough for you, right? Here, more meat! Eat up!”
“Th-Thank you…”
I eye the growing pile of ginger pork on my plate, secretly worried.
Can I even finish this…?
“Dad, you’re overwhelming Izuki.”
“Quiet, you. A guy’s gotta be a little overwhelmed with food to feel just right.”
With that, Yuri’s dad stares closely at my face.
“But man, Izuki, you’ve gotten a lot sturdier since I last saw you.”
“Have I?”
“Yeah. You’ve got some muscle now, and there’s a spark in your eyes.”
“My eyes…?”
When I ask, Yuri’s dad nods deeply.
“When you up and disappeared, I was worried, but it looks like you’re living a full life now.”
Yuri’s dad’s face softens with relief.
I set my chopsticks down and bow my head.
“Yes… I’m sorry for worrying you.”
Yuri’s dad is old-school but incredibly caring, and I’ve always respected him. So, even with this mountain of extra ginger pork, I’m determined to finish it since he served it. …It’s a lot, though.
Honestly, he’s like this with most high school guys who come here, always throwing in extra food. As a chef, he doesn’t play favorites, even with people he knows, because it’d be unfair to other customers.
It’s because of people like him that Yuri grew up to be so bright and considerate.
Even for someone like me, with complicated family issues, this family welcomed me.
I’m nothing but grateful to them.
“I wasn’t that worried, to be honest. But Yuri was.”
“Yeah… I already apologized to her properly.”
“Not seeing you for a while really got Yuri down, you know? I peeked into her room once, and she was curled up in a corner, muttering, ‘Did I say something weird?’ or ‘Is he avoiding me?’ over and over…”
“WAAAAH! Dad!! Shut up!!”
“Oops, looks like the rice is done.”
As his daughter glares at him, red-faced and furious, her dad casually retreats.
Yuri silently shoots me a glare.
I bow my head deeply.
“I’m… really sorry for worrying you.”
“…It’s fine. We already hashed that out during summer classes. Ugh, my dad just has to blab every chance he gets.”
Yuri says this with a sigh.
Seeing her like that, I can’t help but smile.
“This kind of back-and-forth… it’s been a while.”
“…Yeah. It’s nice to do it again.”
Yuri’s mood seems to lift, and she gives a small smile.
When I glance at Hinako beside me… she looks oddly lonely.
“Konohana-san?”
“…Yes? Is something wrong?”
Hinako turns to me with her usual refined smile.
I thought I sensed a wistful air about her, but maybe it’s my imagination. I shake my head and say, “Nah.”
In front of me, Yuri is staring intently at Hinako’s face.
◇
After finishing her meal, Yuri heads back to the kitchen to help out.
At a table in the back, Izuki and Hinako are chatting amicably. Every now and then, Izuki rubs his stomach—definitely because he overate. He might need to rest here a bit longer.
Suddenly, Yuri’s dad, who’s on a break, heads toward their table.
Izuki and her dad start reminiscing, laughing over old times. Beside them, Hinako smiles gently, careful not to interrupt.
(…She’s seriously too perfect for Izuki.)
She’s cute, elegant, and refined.
The ultimate unattainable flower. No matter how many times I see her, that’s what I think.
But from what I can tell, the distance between them hasn’t changed much since summer classes.
She seems capable of anything, but her assertiveness is probably about average.
“Konohana-san, over here!”
Yuri beckons to Hinako.
Hinako tilts her head but comes over.
“What is it?”
“Those two get like that, they’ll talk for ages. Wanna chat, just us?”
“Chat?”
“Yup. Just the two of us.”
Yuri calls out to the kitchen, “Taking a break!” and slips off her apron. A cheerful “Sure!” comes from the kitchen—probably the new female part-timer her dad hired recently. She’s super efficient and reliable.
“Follow me.”
Yuri leads Hinako to the back of the diner.
Up the stairs, there are two doors at the end. Yuri opens the left one, inviting Hinako into her room.
“Sorry, it’s a mess. I was freaking out this morning about what to wear to your place for work, so I turned my wardrobe upside down.”
“No, it’s perfectly fine.”
Even so, Hinako looks around curiously.
This morning, she must’ve been dazzled by the Konohana estate’s lavish decor, but this room’s a total contrast. To a commoner, it’s an ordinary room, but to an Ojou-sama, it might feel like another world.
“This photo…”
Hinako’s eyes land on a picture framed on the desk.
It shows Yuri and Izuki in gym clothes, wearing headbands.
“That’s from our elementary school sports day. …Back then, I was faster than him.”
“Really?”
“Izuki didn’t get athletic until late elementary. Before that, he was kinda clumsy.”
Hinako nods, clearly intrigued.
Yuri makes an offer.
“Wanna see more? I’ve got photos of Izuki.”
“…Since you’re offering, I’d love to.”
Since you’re offering—like that’s gonna hide how much she wants to see them…
Yuri smirks but is secretly thrilled. Finally, a chance to show off her Izuki Collection (aka her photo album)! She eagerly opens a desk drawer.
From the top drawer, she pulls out an album.
The moment it’s opened, Hinako’s eyes are glued to it.
“This is…”
“Middle school open house.”
“Open house?”
“They don’t have those at Kiou Academy? It’s when parents come to watch their kids’ classes.”
“No, we don’t. Our parents are usually too busy.”
Makes sense, Yuri thinks.
Izuki’s parents didn’t show up to this class observation either, but with those two, it’s probably not because they’re busy.
“Lately, Tomonari-kun has been, how do I put it…”
Looking at a photo of Izuki from middle school, Hinako hesitated.
“His eyes look a bit intense, don’t they?”
“Y-Yes.”
“Thinking back, Izuki was pretty rough around the edges back then. By middle school, you can’t help but notice the differences in family circumstances compared to others, whether you want to or not.”
Be it class observations or sports festivals, there were plenty of chances to see classmates’ parents.
Things you might not notice as an elementary schooler become impossible to ignore once you’re a sensitive middle schooler.
“But look, every now and then, he’d make a cute face like this.”
“This… is pretty cute.”
“When I made him a cake for his birthday, he was way happier than I expected.”
The photo showed Izuki stuffing his face with cake, beaming with a full-on grin.
At first, Yuri and the others were thrilled to see Izuki so delighted, but when he later mentioned, “This is the first time I’ve ever had cake on my birthday,” it brought tears to their eyes for all sorts of reasons. Still, it’s a good memory.
“Is this… the high school from earlier?”
“Yep. This was taken together at the entrance ceremony.”
In front of the high school gate, Yuri and Izuki stood side by side.
Back then, Izuki probably never imagined he’d end up at Kiou Academy…
“Tomonari-kun looks a little sleepy here.”
“Get this—he actually scheduled a newspaper delivery job on the morning of the entrance ceremony. Ended up sleep-deprived and was nodding off the whole time.”
When I couldn’t help but blurt, “Are you an idiot?” he just admitted, “Yeah, I was.”
It’s exactly this kind of thing that makes me want to look out for him.
“If you’re okay with phone pics, I’ve got tons more.”
Yuri opened her smartphone’s photo folder and showed the screen to Hinako.
“Oh, this one feels more recent.”
“Yeah, that’s from about six months ago, taken in the classroom.”
“And this… is he looking down?”
“Good eye. He was bummed out because he didn’t do so hot on a midterm.”
The two girls kept up their lively, giggly chatter for a while.
Hinako stared at Yuri’s phone screen with a look of pure fascination.
“Hirano-san, do you take a lot of photos with Tomonari-kun?”
“Yeah, I guess. Izuki’s parents weren’t really the type to care about this stuff—or maybe they just didn’t have the money for a camera—so my parents took a ton of pictures instead.”
That’s why we got them developed and gave copies to Izuki too.
“Not that it’s a big deal or anything—my family just did it on their own. I don’t really know what Izuki thinks about it.”
Yuri said with a light laugh.
Izuki can be pretty oblivious when it comes to himself. He seemed genuinely grateful when we gave him the photos, but who knows what he really feels.
“…I think he treasures them.”
Hinako said softly, her voice gentle.
She was remembering something. The other day, when she borrowed an electronic dictionary from Izuki, he’d opened his desk drawer. Hinako had caught a glimpse inside for just a moment.
“There were photos in the top drawer of the desk Tomonari-kun uses… I’m sure he must feel they’re precious.”
“…I see.”
Izuki kept his photos in the same place Yuri did.
He must cherish those old memories too.
“Tomonari-kun looks so happy in these.”
Looking at the photos, Hinako said with a fleeting, almost fragile tone.
Yuri, catching her profile, felt a pang of curiosity.
Why was she making that face?
Lately, Hinako seemed to wear a wistful expression more often than she had during the summer course.
Almost as if… she and Izuki had grown further apart.
“…If we keep this up, I’ll forget why I invited you here.”
Seeing Hinako’s expression, Yuri remembered the reason she’d asked her over.
“So, um, I wanted to ask… how have things been lately?”
“Things…?”
Hinako tilted her head, and Yuri’s face twisted with complication.
How should she put this? Beating around the bush with vague phrasing probably wouldn’t get through to this pure-hearted Ojou-sama…
“Well, you know… do you remember what I said at the end of the summer course? Thinking back, I realize it was pretty meddlesome of me…”
Yuri gave an awkward laugh.
Truth be told, she did think it was meddlesome—but she didn’t regret it.
At the time, she’d felt absolutely compelled to say it. Hinako seemed like she’d keep stumbling, unaware of her own feelings, and Yuri couldn’t just stand by and watch such a clumsy girl get hurt.
Still, if her words had only made Hinako worry more, that’d defeat the whole point.
Yuri had hoped to see Hinako looking refreshed and carefree after their summer course reunion, but instead, she seemed even more troubled than before.
“…Actually, I wanted to talk to you about that too, Hirano-san.”
“Yeah, yeah, ask me anything.”
Yuri waited for Hinako’s words.
Hinako opened her mouth slowly.
“What does it mean… to like someone?”
At that question, Yuri’s thoughts screeched to a halt.
“…What does it… mean?”
In an era where romance dramas and manga were churned out by the dozen, to think there was still someone in this world who’d ask such a question…
Hinako’s pure, earnest eyes left Yuri blushing with secondhand embarrassment.
She was like a heroine straight out of a manga or drama—a genuine, sheltered princess.
At this point, she almost seemed like a perfectly crafted Ojou-sama.
“Hold on… let me think if there’s a good way to explain this.”
If it were just the dictionary definition of the word, Yuri could rattle it off in a heartbeat. But that probably wasn’t what this innocent girl in front of her wanted to know.
How could she teach this girl what it meant to like someone, what love was?
Yuri mulled it over for a few minutes, but in the end, no answer came.
◆
With our stomachs full, we left Yuri’s family’s shop.
After saying goodbye to Yuri’s dad, I chatted with her a bit in front of the store.
“Konohana-san, about that thing we talked about earlier, let’s put it on hold for now. I’ll let you know if I figure out anything worth sharing.”
“Yes, I’ll be waiting.”
What was that about…?
I knew the two of them had stepped away while I was talking to Yuri’s dad, so maybe they were discussing something privately.
“What were you and Yuri talking about?”
“Hmm… it’s a secret.”
If she says that, I probably shouldn’t pry… or so I tried to convince myself, but honestly, I was curious.
She’s usually so open with me—sometimes too much—so having her keep a secret felt oddly frustrating.
“Izuki… you’re pretty close with Yuri’s dad too, huh?”
“Yeah, they’ve helped me out a lot. I even worked part-time at their place for a while… Honestly, they might’ve done more family-like stuff for me than my own parents.”
Even on the day of my high school entrance ceremony, I took pictures with Yuri’s family, not my parents.
My parents barely ever showed up for my school events. Yuri’s family, on the other hand, treated me with a warmth that felt almost too kind for a stranger.
That’s why their home always felt so warm to me.
It had an inviting, homey atmosphere I rarely felt even in my own house.
(…I’m jealous.)
An emotion I hadn’t felt in a long time stirred back to life.
Seeing a close-knit family sometimes made me envious. Eating together, chatting lively… I found myself craving that kind of warm connection.
Like opening the front door and having someone gently say, “Welcome home.” I’d often dreamed of days like that.
I’d accepted my circumstances, but every now and then, those feelings bubbled up.
It’s like a chronic condition… or maybe a sudden flare-up.
“I’m home.”
I opened the front door and said it out of habit.
No one was supposed to reply. …Or so I thought.
“Welcome home.”
Shizune-san, washing dishes in the kitchen, turned to look at me.
Welcome home. I hadn’t expected those words, and for a moment, I froze.
“Is something wrong?”
“…No, it’s just…”
I glanced away from Shizune-san, who tilted her head curiously.
Those were the words my heart had been yearning for most. I’d thought they were out of reach, so hearing them so suddenly left my mind blank.
Wiping away the tears welling up at the corners of my eyes, I looked back at Shizune-san.
“I just… thought it’s nice to have someone at home.”
“…I understand.”
Shizune-san gave a gentle smile.
I finally realized why I’d forgotten that “jealousy” of close families until recently.
It’s because spending time with Hinako and the others had filled that void in me.
“I’ll help with the dishes.”
“You just got back—you can rest, you know.”
“No, let me help.”
Shizune-san gave me a puzzled look but nodded, saying, “Alright, then.”
That homey atmosphere was right here too.
Realizing that made me happier than anything else.
◆
Shizune-san finished washing the last dish and deftly put it away on the shelf.
She was about to start on some work for the Konohana family. As expected, I couldn’t help with that. I’d finished my studying for the day, so with some free time, I decided to relax.
“Ojou-sama, shall I start heating the bath soon?”
Shizune-san glanced at the clock while working and asked.
“Mmm… it’s hot today, so maybe tomorrow…”
“That won’t do.”
Hinako let out a groan, “Ehhh…”
But I get where she’s coming from.
“This house’s AC isn’t exactly top-notch, huh.”
It’s late August now. You’d think it’d start cooling off, but the nights are still sweltering.
“I want ice cream…”
“…Guess I’ll go buy some.”
I’ve got time to kill.
I was about to ask if Hinako wanted to come along, but she’s been out for longer than usual these past few days and looked utterly exhausted. It’s dark out, so I’ll go alone.
“Shizune-san, I’m heading to the convenience store nearby.”
“Understood. It’s late, so be careful not to take any detours.”
Between the lines, she was saying a small detour was fine, but I’d be on my own if anything happened. Classic Shizune-san warning. …She might’ve even guessed I wanted to soak in the night vibe of this town I hadn’t been back to in a while.
I stepped outside and started walking toward the convenience store.
“…This view hasn’t changed a bit.”
The residential neighborhood at night was so quiet it almost felt eerie. As if to shake off that unease, a strange excitement bubbled up. This was always how I felt walking home after late-night shifts.
Since becoming an caretaker, I hadn’t had many chances to wander the city at night.
The dim glow of streetlights and the faint sound of my own footsteps felt nostalgic.
Turning down a narrow alley, I spotted the convenience store I was aiming for. I remembered wanting to work here back when I started high school since it was close to home, but they weren’t hiring at the time.
Stepping inside, the cool air from the AC brushed against my skin.
I headed toward the ice cream section.
On the way, I passed a tall man in a sharp suit.
…One of the Konohana family’s bodyguards, maybe?
It’s hard to put into words, but he had an elegant air that set him apart from most people. It reminded me of the refined aura I’d sensed from the upper-class students at Kiou Academy when I first enrolled.
Could he be connected to the Konohana family? I was mulling it over when—
“Hey there.”
The man turned back and called out to me.
“…Hey.”
Unsure why he was talking to me, I gave a vague greeting.
He was strikingly handsome. Slender build, pale skin. No way he’s a bodyguard with that frame, I thought, wondering if he might be an idol or something instead.
“Mind telling me what’s good here?”
“Good, huh?”
At a convenience store…?
I’d gotten that question plenty of times working at a pub, but never at a convenience store.
He looked well-bred, so I tried to think of something someone like him might like.
“How about some of the wines over there?”
“Hmm, not quite. I’m looking for something more… convenience store-ish.”
I thought wine was a safe bet, but apparently, I missed the mark.
“Then maybe the hot snacks by the register?”
“Hot snacks? …Oh, those! I’ve been curious about them since I walked in!”
Has he never eaten them before?
It felt less like he hadn’t tried them and more like he didn’t even know they existed…
“Also, could you maybe lend me some money?”
“…Money?”
Suddenly, this guy’s sketchiness level shot through the roof.
But thanks to my caretaker salary, I had a bit of cash to spare. A hot snack’s barely 200 yen, so I figured why not and handed him two 100-yen coins.
“Thanks. You’re a kind one.”
He looked me straight in the eyes as he said it.
“I don’t carry a wallet by principle. Makes it easier to build connections, you know.”
“…Right.”
Like some advanced form of hitchhiking, maybe?
This guy was undeniably shady, but for some reason, I didn’t feel too uneasy. His refined demeanor probably had something to do with it. His bizarre comments should’ve pegged him as just a weirdo, but somehow, they felt like glimpses of genius instead.
He headed to the register and bought a hot snack.
Hinako’s waiting, so I need to grab the ice cream…
As the man left the store, I lined up at the register, pulling out ice cream for three.
“…Izuki-kun?”
Right after paying, the cashier—a woman—looked at me in surprise.
Her voice sounded familiar.
“…Adachi-san?”
She was a former classmate.
I hadn’t noticed from a distance, but looking closely, there was no mistaking her.
“Been a while, huh.”
“Yeah, it has.”
We exchanged awkward greetings.
The conversation fizzled out almost immediately.
There were no other customers in the store. Before the silence turned into full-blown awkwardness, I scrambled for something to say.
“You work here?”
“Yeah. My allowance alone isn’t nearly enough.”
She said, glancing at my face.
“You’ve changed a bit, Izuki-kun.”
“Have I?”
“You seem more… confident, maybe? Your posture’s straighter. You look sharper than before.”
Doesn’t sound like she means it in a bad way.
Standing tall and carrying myself properly is something I’ve worked on as a Kiou Academy student. Hearing it noticed feels pretty good.
“Adachi-san, you’ve changed.”
“Oh? In what way?”
“Well, like… you look flashier now.”
Maybe that was too blunt, but it was my honest impression.
She’s got piercings in her ears. Her nails are done up with polish. Even her hair’s dyed a bit.
Now that she’s a second-year in high school, maybe Adachi-san decided to have some fun with fashion within what’s allowed. But last year, she wasn’t like this. Adachi-san was never the type to shrink back and read the room, but her appearance used to be more subdued. At the very least, she didn’t actively try to stand out.
“It’s a makeover.”
Adachi-san answers shortly.
A makeover. Guessing at the reason behind it, I quickly look away.
“Why’s Izuki-kun making that face?”
“Well, uh… it’s kinda awkward.”
“Because I confessed to you?”
“…Yeah.”
I can’t come up with a good lie, so I nod honestly.
Back in our first year of high school, Adachi-san confessed to me. I wasn’t fully aware of it at the time, but thinking back, there was a period when she talked to me a lot.
But I turned her down.
My family situation was tough, and I just couldn’t deal with that kind of thing.
“The makeover has nothing to do with you, Izuki-kun.”
I feel a quiet relief inside. But showing that relief feels wrong, so I end up nodding with a weird expression.
Seeing me like that, Adachi-san laughs.
“Last year was kind of a mess, huh?”
Adachi-san says, reminiscing about the past.
“After you rejected me, I skipped school for a bit, remember? I told everyone it was just me feeling sick, but honestly, I was just super bummed out.”
“…I kinda figured it might’ve been something like that.”
“What? Then you could’ve at least come check on me!”
“If I showed up, it would’ve made things worse, right?”
I let out a small laugh, and Adachi-san laughs too.
Neither of us is really at fault, but this conversation feels like a kind of cleansing ritual.
A way to slowly mend this awkward relationship.
“And then, maybe to defend me or something, my friends started hating on you for a while…”
“Ugh… so they were hating on me.”
“Sorry about that. I think part of it was because I vented to them in a weird way. When I said you rejected me because of family issues, everyone was like, ‘That’s totally a lie,’ and got all worked up…”
“No, I didn’t handle it well either. I’ve barely ever explained my family stuff to anyone, so using it as an excuse out of nowhere probably didn’t make sense to you.”
As we talk, I start to vividly recall those days.
That’s right.
Back in our first year, my life wasn’t all vibrant youth and fun. There were times when things didn’t go well, and times when I felt crushed by anxiety.
“We were both pretty immature back then, huh?”
“…Yeah.”
Even if we couldn’t become lovers, staying friends and getting along moving forward… that kind of clean resolution is something only romance experts can pull off. Adachi-san and I couldn’t do it.
I scratch the back of my head, feeling a bit pathetic as I recall those frustrating memories.
“Back then, I was so caught up in my own stuff. I almost wish I could do it all over.”
“Hmm. So, does that mean I can take another shot at you?”
“Huh?”
That’s not what I meant, but…
“Actually, I’m still kinda into you, Izuki-kun.”
“W-Wait, that’s…”
Adachi-san leans forward, looking up at me with those eyes, grabbing my hand.
“Hey? Wanna talk more? My shift’s about to end.”
“Talk, you say…”
I’m flustered as she suddenly closes the distance.
Was Adachi-san always like this?
Was she the type to come on this strong?
From her looks to her personality, she’s so different from how I remember her.
“Hey.”
At that moment, the guy in the suit—who I thought had left the shop—suddenly walks up to us and speaks.
Adachi-san immediately straightens up.
“Sorry, I’ll handle the payment right away…”
“No, no. That’s not it. I just couldn’t stand listening to your conversation.”
The man’s correction cracks the air in the room.
Did I hear that right? Did this guy just say something insanely harsh?
He flashes a fake, cheerful smile and looks at Adachi-san.
“High school girl, a loveless marriage for money won’t do either of you any good.”
At those words, Adachi-san flinches slightly.
But she quickly puts on a strained smile to cover it up.
“…What are you talking about?”
“Going after someone for their money is something you should save for when you’re a bit older. It comes with its own set of troubles.”
“I didn’t say anything about money!”
“But you’ve already got a boyfriend, don’t you?”
This time, Adachi-san’s shaken, no question about it.
Her eyes widen in shock, as if to say, How?, as she stares at the man.
“Sorry, kid. I’ve got a knack for sniffing that stuff out.”
The man says it with the same breezy attitude he’s had all along.
Adachi-san’s brow furrows. Irritation and unease—it’s like those two emotions have pushed past what her rationality can hold back.
“…Tch.”
Adachi-san clicks her tongue.
I hesitate, wondering if I should say something, but she won’t even meet my eyes.
Since I’ve already paid for my ice cream, I leave the shop, though I’m still worried about her.
“That was rough, huh?”
The moment the automatic doors close, the man says that to me.
“Rough? You just threw out some wild accusations, so of course she’d get mad!”
“It’s the truth, though. Hmm… guess it ended up like this again.”
The man shrugs, not looking all that sorry.
“Izuki-kun, being humble is great and all, but you should really understand your situation. From now on, you’re probably gonna get swarmed by people like that.”
His words strike me as odd.
How does he know about my situation? And…
“Why do you know my name…?”
“Why do you think?”
The man grins slyly.
“Here’s a hint: you were able to come back home because of me.”
His words make me replay the last few days in my head.
What triggered this trip back home? Hinako wanted to visit my house. And the reason for that…?
The reason Hinako left the mansion in the first place—
“…Konohana Takuma-san?”
“Bingo.”
The man nods with a shady grin.
“Nice to meet you, Konohana Takuma. My little sister’s always in your care.”
◆
In the convenience store parking lot, I stand face-to-face with Takuma-san, holding a bag with my ice cream.
“I said I wanted to borrow money, right? Not give it to me. In other words, I have a way to pay it back.”
Well, yeah, I figured as much.
He’s Hinako’s family, so I should assume he knows everything about me. The fact that he’s here means he probably knows where Hinako and I are living right now. If Takuma-san wanted to, he could meet me anytime.
“Um, Takuma-san, why are you here…?”
“Killing time. If I had to say, I wanted to check out the town my sister picked as her hideout.”
So meeting me was just a coincidence?
Calling it a hideout means he’s fully aware Hinako’s avoiding him.
But Takuma-san doesn’t seem sad about it.
“How’s the caretaker gig going?”
Takuma-san asks out of nowhere.
I hesitate, and he follows up with another question.
“Is it rewarding?”
“…I think so.”
“Hahaha, how long are you gonna stay so stiff? Loosen up a bit!”
Takuma-san laughs casually.
But I can’t shake the tension.
It’s been like this the whole time. There’s something unsettling about Takuma-san, something I can’t quite pin down. His tone is laid-back, but he feels impossible to read.
“Taking care of that girl must be tough, huh? Not too stressed out?”
“…No, it’s fulfilling. So I don’t have much stress.”
“That’s good to hear. The last guy got an ulcer, you know. No idea if the Konohana name traumatized him or what, but he hasn’t been able to use our group’s services since.”
That sounds like a downright tragic story.
Living in this country without relying on the Konohana Group isn’t impossible, but it takes careful effort. They’re involved in banking, real estate, food—everything.
“From what I saw earlier, it seems like you’re getting along with your old classmates too.”
“Yeah, I guess. No reason to be on bad terms with them.”
Though, thanks to Takuma-san, my relationship with one of them might’ve just taken a hit.
“You’re pretty adaptable, aren’t you? …Or rather, you want to be adaptable.”
Takuma-san says it like he’s impressed.
“That’s exactly why I’m gonna let you in on something.”
He looks me straight in the eyes and says,
“Do you know why Dad allowed Hinako to leave the mansion?”
“That’s… because lately, Hinako’s been fulfilling her duties as a Konohana daughter, and Kagen-san’s started to trust her, right?”
“That’s giving him too much credit.”
Takuma-san laughs.
I can tell it’s a forced smile.
“Unlike the summer course hotel, your house isn’t exactly Fort Knox. …Do you really think that worrywart of a dad would let Hinako out of the mansion so easily?”
When he puts it like that, I start to doubt my own assumptions.
He’s right—Kagen-san is a worrywart. Or rather, he’s cautious. He seems to deeply understand the weight of the Konohana Group and always strives to make decisions that match that responsibility.
So, what’s the real reason Kagen-san allowed Hinako to leave…?
The sentimental reason I gave earlier might not fit Kagen-san’s style.
“The truth is, the Konohana family’s dealing with a bit of a mess right now.”
“A mess?”
“One of our group companies, Konoha Drinks Co., Ltd., got hit with a power harassment scandal. It hasn’t made the news, so the public doesn’t know, but it’s definitely leaked to industry insiders. So, just to be safe, we decided to keep Hinako away from the Konohana mansion.”
His concise explanation makes sense.
No, it actually feels like a more fitting answer. If that’s the situation, it explains why Kagen-san would approve this.
“Dad can’t make a decision unless it’s calculated. Forgive him for that.”
Takuma-san says it with a hint of apology.
Does he not get along with his father either?
I’m curious, but there’s something else I need to ask right now.
“That mess you mentioned… does Hinako know about it?”
If she does, hasn’t she been hiding her anxiety this whole time?
At my question, Takuma-san’s eyes widen.
“…You’re a kind guy, huh. That’s the first thing you say after hearing all this?”
He lets out a short sigh.
“She knows. Dad must’ve told her. But she probably only knows as much as I just explained. There’s nothing she can do about it anyway.”
Takuma-san answers matter-of-factly.
“And, though it’s sad to admit, the reason my sister left the mansion is because she doesn’t want to see me. …She’s not hiding her true feelings from you or anything.”
He says it like he’s trying to ease my worries.
So, Hinako didn’t keep the scandal a secret to spare me worry, nor did she leave the mansion under the pretense of avoiding her brother. She’s genuinely excited to be here.
Thinking about it, that makes sense.
When Hinako came to my house, and when we walked through the shopping district, her eyes were sparkling with excitement. It’s hard to believe that was all an act.
Just then, I hear footsteps approaching from behind.
“Izuki-san. You were late, so I came to pick you up—”
Shizune-san approaches us in the convenience store parking lot.
It’s dark, so she probably couldn’t see who I was talking to until she got closer. Her eyes widen slightly when she sees the person standing in front of me.
“…Takuma-sama. Why are you here?”
“Yo, Shizune. Still got that stern look on your face, huh?”
Takuma-san greets her casually.
“I’m just here to kill time. You know my hobby’s wandering around, right?”
“…I told you to quit that hobby.”
“Can’t quit it—that’s why it’s a hobby.”
Shizune-san, who’s usually cool and composed, lets a slight scowl slip.
She takes a deep breath and looks at me.
“Izuki-san, did this man tell you anything unnecessary?”
“Uh, well…”
How should I answer?
As I hesitate, Takuma-san sighs.
“C’mon, that’s harsh. I’m the eldest son of the Konohana family, you know? I wouldn’t do that.”
“I hope not…”
“I just explained the mess the Konohana Group’s dealing with right now.”
Shizune-san glares at him, as if to say, You did it anyway.
“Izuki-kun thought Dad let Hinako leave because he trusts her. Did you put that idea in his head, Shizune?”
“…Put it in his head? It’s true to an extent, isn’t it?”
“Sure, Dad’s changing a bit. But exaggerating those tiny shifts is risky. …Sometimes, getting your hopes up just sets you up for disappointment.”
Takuma-san says it with a faintly lonely expression.
I can only vaguely grasp what they’re arguing about.
“Takuma-sama, was it necessary to tell Izuki-san about the Konohana Group’s issues?”
“Was it necessary to keep it from him? I know you’re overprotective, Shizune, but in his case, knowing might help him handle things better than being kept in the dark.”
“…I’m trying to think this through seriously in my own way.”
Shizune-san glares at Takuma-san.
Honestly… this is the first time I’ve seen Shizune-san lose an argument.
I don’t know if Takuma-san’s doing it on purpose, but he’s got her completely thrown off.
Watching this unfold, a thought hits me.
(…Could Shizune-san’s recent busyness have something to do with Takuma-san?)
The eldest son of the Konohana family suddenly showed up at the mansion we were staying in. That must’ve required a ton of paperwork and coordination with her work.
Seeing Takuma-san toy with Shizune-san makes me wonder if that’s the case.
“That’s not it.”
Takuma-san shifts his gaze to me and says,
“Shizune’s busyness is purely because of the scandal I mentioned. My visit has nothing to do with it.”
He declares it confidently.
Shizune-san, standing silently at the edge of my vision, doesn’t say anything. Her silence is confirmation enough.
But, more than that—
“…Um, I haven’t said anything yet, have I…?”
Did I just voice the question swirling in my head?
No, I didn’t. There’s no way I would. Spouting such a rude assumption in front of the person themselves? No chance. I knew it was impolite, so I kept it locked away in my mind.
And yet, Takuma-san pointed it out as if he’d read my thoughts.
Seeing my flustered reaction, Takuma-san chuckled.
“I told you, didn’t I? I just get these things.”
Goosebumps prickled my skin.
Is this how Adachi-san felt earlier?
“Well, as for this whole mess, you don’t need to worry about it, Izuki-kun. Leave this kind of thing to sly adults like us.”
Takuma-san spoke as if nothing had happened.
I didn’t like lumping Shizune-san into that “sly adult” category alongside Takuma-san, so I couldn’t bring myself to respond.
“Alright, I’m gonna head out soon… Oh, right, there’s one more thing I need to tell you, Izuki-kun.”
With that, Takuma-san leaned in close, whispering so Shizune-san couldn’t hear.
“Right now, you can’t be the person she can truly belong with.”
What did he mean by that—
Before I could ask, Takuma-san was already gone.
The ice cream I’d bought for Hinako had completely melted.
◆
After buying new ice cream, I was on my way home.
My smartphone buzzed, signaling a call from Yuri.
“Izuki, got a sec? So, that girl I met in front of school today… she kinda told Adachi-san about you without asking.”
“…Is that so?”
“Yeah. I didn’t think it was worth mentioning, so I kept quiet, but… Adachi-san’s been hanging out with some rough types since she became a second-year. Not sure if it’s their influence or what, but she’s gotten into the habit of cozying up to anyone who looks like they’ve got money. You’re a student at Kiou Academy, so just… watch yourself, okay?”
“Yeah… I will.”
After ending the call with Yuri, I slipped my phone into my pocket.
I let out a small sigh.
“Um, Shizune-san?”
I turned to Shizune-san, who was walking beside me.
“What kind of person is Takuma-san?”
“…That’s a difficult question to answer.”
Shizune-san began speaking as we walked.
“If I had to sum him up in one word, it’d be free-spirited. He’s thoughtful in his own way, but his values are so off-kilter that it’s hard to connect with him. Even for someone like Kagen-sama or Ojou-sama, who are his family, understanding what’s in Takuma-sama’s heart must be no easy feat.”
Gazing out at the nighttime city, Shizune-san continued.
“But, as you’d expect from someone who carries the Konohana blood, his natural talents are on par with, if not greater than, Ojou-sama’s. …His insight, in particular, is so sharp it’s almost unsettling.”
“Insight…”
I had a hunch about what she meant.
Perhaps sensing my thoughts, Shizune-san went on.
“Have you ever heard of EQ?”
I shook my head.
“Emotional Intelligence Quotient… It stands for emotional intelligence, essentially. Think of it as the psychological equivalent of IQ. People with high EQ are skilled at reading emotions or managing their own.”
Reading emotions… That probably means picking up on what others are feeling.
Managing emotions likely refers to controlling your own. I was just guessing based on the terms, but it made sense.
“Takuma-sama’s EQ is exceptionally high, even on a global scale. He describes it as having ‘over-the-top communication skills.’ …Takuma-sama can often tell what someone’s thinking just by observing their expressions. That’s why he sometimes says things that feel like he’s reading your mind.”
So that’s how Takuma-san was able to guess what I was thinking.
And probably with Adachi-san, too…
“But because of that gift, Takuma-sama struggles with normal communication. …It’s understandable. To him, it’s as if the other person has already said something, but to them, they haven’t said a word.”
When we left the convenience store and it was just the two of us, Takuma-san muttered, “Here we go again.” He must have thought he was responding to someone’s feelings, only for others not to get it. He’s probably gone through that countless times.
That sense of resignation in his voice—it carried that weight.
“…You know a lot about him, don’t you? About Takuma-san.”
Shizune-san had spoken about Takuma-san with surprising detail.
“Well, I originally served Takuma-sama, not Ojou-sama.”
“What?”
That was news to me.
“Though, to be honest, he never needed me from the start, so I was quickly reassigned to Ojou-sama.”
“…I see.”
“Yes. It was a relief, frankly.”
For Shizune-san, showing that much emotion was rare.
As we neared home, I recalled the words Takuma-san had left me with.
Right now, you can’t be Hinako’s place to belong.
What did he mean by that?
Still without an answer, I opened the front door.
Inside, Hinako was sprawled out, using a cushion as a pillow. She wasn’t asleep, but she looked utterly languid… In other words, her usual lazy self.
I decided to push Takuma-san’s words out of my mind for now.
“Hinako, I got the ice cream.”
“Gimme…!”
Hinako, who’d been lying down, shot upright.
She wanted it that badly?
As I opened the plastic bag, Hinako’s eyes sparkled while she picked out her ice cream. I spoke up.
“Hinako, did you know about the scandal with one of the Konohana Group’s companies?”
“…I know. Did you hear about it, Izuki?”
If I told her I heard it from Takuma-san, she might make that “ugh” face like the other day, so I just nodded and said, “Yeah.”
“I hope they handle it properly…”
Hinako took a bite of her ice cream, her expression turning serious.
“Papa must be so upset.”
Kagen-san, who cares more about the Konohana Group than anyone, must be racking his brain over this scandal.
“Yeah,” I nodded in agreement.
