Taking Responsibility

Seeing that almost everyone had left, only Akasaka's three girlfriends remained: Ichinose, Shiina Hiyori, and Sakayanagi Arisu.

Oh, right. There was also the bothersome Ayanokoji...

Ayanokoji said, [If I'm such a bother, I can leave. It's not like I wanted to stay anyway~]

Akasaka said to the three beauties, "You should head back first."

Akasaka suddenly paused. Remembering Mahiru's situation, he looked at Shiina Hiyori with a complicated expression. "You stay behind for a moment. I'll need your help with something later."

Shiina Hiyori held her book in both hands and smiled brightly. "Sure~, I'd be delighted."

Ichinose and Sakayanagi Arisu were both a little envious of Hiyori, but there was nothing they could do. Since Akasaka had specifically asked for her, there had to be something she could help with. They were of no use here, so they chose to return to school.

Outside the Shinomiya Estate.

With his hands in his pockets, Akasaka watched the two of them off and told Ichinose to look after Sakayanagi on the way, since her legs were not very convenient.

Ichinose made an OK sign with her fingers to show that she understood. Even if Akasaka had not said anything, Ichinose was a kind angel by nature. Since the two were returning to school together, she would naturally take care of her along the way.

The two got into the taxi Kaguya Shinomiya had specially called for them, preparing to leave directly.

The electric window rolled down. Sakayanagi Arisu, seated in the back, had something to say to Akasaka. "I'll be waiting for you at school. Don't make me wait too long—I'll miss you."

Sakayanagi Arisu's delicate little fingers rested against the car window. She still wore that confident smile, but deep in her eyes was a hint of reluctance to part.