"Come help me move my stuff." The call connected, and a flat, emotionless voice came through.
Still groggy from sleep, Kyousuke looked at his phone in confusion.
The time read 6:33 AM. The caller was Sawamura Spencer Eriri.
What the…? Not only had she been completely heartbroken yesterday, but Eriri would never wake up this early during a break.
And that cold tone—definitely not something that tsundere girl would use.
Shaking his head, he wondered if he was dreaming.
"Eriri? Is that you?"
"Huh? Are your ears broken?"
"It hasn't even been a day and you can't recognize my voice?"
"Or have you already deleted all memory of me from that tiny brain of yours?"
That familiar, haughty tone flowed into Kyousuke's ears like a refreshing stream, making him smile with relief. That's more like it.
"No, no, I just… hearing your voice first thing in the morning made me so happy, I thought I must be dreaming."
"What are you even saying, you pervert?! I have no intention of showing up in your dreams! Who knows what kind of messed-up fantasies you're having!"
The icy voice immediately thawed, turning into a flustered, indignant tone.
He could already picture her little fangs showing, cheeks tinged with pink.
"Haha, it was a good dream, you know. And now, that dream's come true."
By now he was fully awake, and the words she had said at the start of the call echoed clearly in his mind.
Only an idiot would question why her mood suddenly improved. The only thing that mattered now was showing how happy he was.
"Shut up! Stop talking about your dumb dreams already!"
"Alright, alright. I'll arrange a car and be there within half an hour."
"Like I care how long you take!"
"Don't act like I'm desperately waiting for you! I still haven't forgiven you, okay?"
"I'm moving out only because I have to stay up late drawing, and I don't want to disturb my parents! Don't get the wrong idea!"
"Yes, yes. Got it. See you soon."
"No need to call a car. Our driver's already here."
With that last statement, she hung up.
'…So that means I can just ride over and pick up the princess myself?'
Sigh, this girl… she really puts herself through so much.
Even without thinking too hard, Kyousuke knew Eriri had struggled with this decision.
Just like when he saw Utaha-senpai yesterday, she must've spent hours replaying old memories, convincing herself over and over.
And then, finally, that timid girl gathered up her courage and took a step forward.
Wasting no time, he headed into the bathroom to shower.
This wasn't just any day. This was a heist.
Even if he had the princess's permission, he was still stealing her away from the castle—and that meant he needed to take this seriously.
It was his vow of loyalty to her. And at the same time, it was his way of showing the Spencer couple just how serious he was.
He loved the vast white snow of winter, and he cherished the moonlit lotus ponds of summer.
It wasn't about being fickle—it was about being unable to give up something he truly loved.
———————————————————————
Meanwhile, in the Spencer household, Sayuri only let go of her husband's hand once her daughter ended the call.
When Eriri had said she didn't want to disturb her parents' rest, Mr. Spencer had practically screamed, "You're not disturbing us at all!"
Even now, the British man stood there, tears streaming down his face.
"You've got this, Lily!" Sayuri encouraged her daughter, fist clenched. "Strike while the iron's hot!"
"…Mm."
Eriri, who had been so full of momentum moments ago, now looked awkwardly down at her parents.
In truth, her mind was still a mess.
She couldn't fully understand what she felt for Kyousuke.
But he always understood her, no matter how unreasonable she got. He always knew exactly what she meant.
Whenever she wanted to play childish games, he would join in wholeheartedly.
When she needed feedback on those blush-inducing doujinshi, he would give serious, thoughtful advice.
Even when she said she wanted to turn her life into an anime, no matter how absurd, he'd immediately say yes.
She liked talking to him.
She liked being around him.
Not seeing him made her sad, and not hearing his voice made her lonely.
She didn't know if this was the kind of love where she wanted to be his girlfriend.
But what she did know was this:
Kyousuke was hers.
So no matter who tried to take him away—she would not lose.
Just like her golden hair that shone brightly in the sunlight, she would claim victory in the end.
And then, the two of them could finally sit down and figure out exactly what this feeling between them was.
———————————————————————
"You! Assistant!"
Eriri stood on the front steps, now eye-level with Kyousuke.
One hand was planted on her waist, the other pointed accusingly at him, her slender finger practically poking his nose.
"Your role in animation direction is revoked! From now on, you're just the assistant! The grunt! The one who sits next to the shredder and serves tea to the director!"
"If you keep slacking off and messing around, once the anime's finished and I've become Japan's top director, I'll toss you out without a second thought!"
Her delicate chin lifted proudly, and her deep blue eyes worked hard to project disdain.
"Got that, Assistant?!"
"Yes, yes, loud and clear."
Even though he still saw her as the shut-in otaku girl deep down, Kyousuke had to admit—Eriri looked absolutely stunning right now.
The royal blue ruffled dress hugged her already slim waist even tighter, making it look like it could be wrapped in one hand.
It wasn't exactly a British-style off-shoulder dress, but it showed off just enough fair skin.
Her signature twin tails were tied with thin red ribbons, and the contrast with her golden hair made them shine even brighter.
Wait… did she put on lip gloss or something? Her lips looked extra soft and glossy today.
"Don't say things twice—it makes me sound unreasonable."
"Got it, got it. Won't happen again."
"Hmph. Let's go." She lowered her head, having kept her chin raised so long it started to ache.
"Wait, I haven't greeted your parents yet."
He barely made it to the front door before Eriri launched into a lecture.
He hadn't even had the chance to greet the Spencers yet.
Man, he should've brought that car Eriri gave him. He had considered bringing a gift but worried that might make him seem too cocky—so he left it behind.
"You're such a pain. Hurry up already," Eriri said without looking back, stepping down the stairs to make room.
She couldn't bear the idea of facing her parents together with Kyousuke.
That scene would make it feel like she was getting married.
"Good morning, Uncle Robin. Aunt Sayuri," Kyousuke said as he stepped into the house and spotted the couple in the living room.
"I'm not having a good morning," said Mr. Spencer with an uncharacteristically sour expression, making no effort to hide his displeasure.
"I had to work so hard to cheer Lily up. I've never seen her cry that hard before," Sayuri added, her smile nowhere to be seen.
"It's all my fault. I'm really sorry." Kyousuke bowed his head sincerely.
This was different from visiting Sakura or Shouko's home—this time, he wasn't just bringing someone back. He had made their daughter cry.
"She's our joy. The house only feels alive when it's filled with her laughter," Mr. Spencer said, turning to look at him.
His voice was unusually serious, and for once, Kyousuke felt like he was truly speaking to a diplomat.
"She's a proud princess… but also a fragile little girl. I hope you understand that."
"I do. I'll protect her like I would my own eyes." Kyousuke bowed deeply.
Mr. and Mrs. Spencer nodded.
"Then Eriri and I will be heading off."
"Don't forget to make sure she gets to bed early," Mr. Spencer reminded him.
"That's one thing I actually trust Kyousuke with," Mrs. Spencer said with a rare smile.
As the morning breeze carried a touch of moisture through the air, Kyousuke glanced in the rearview mirror at the elegant sapphire-blue car behind them.
He'd imagined himself as a prince riding a black horse to pick up his princess—only to realize he was more like part of a ceremonial escort.
Wearing such a luxurious dress, there was no way Eriri could ride on a motorcycle.
'Hmph, one day I'm going to make him cry just as hard' she thought bitterly, watching Kyousuke up ahead, clad in black, almost fused with the motorcycle.
Yet despite her defiant thoughts, anxiety crept in.
She was about to meet three unfamiliar girls. Even though her mother had given her a full briefing last night, her mind was now completely blank.
All the experience she'd gained from otome games felt utterly useless.
She had rehearsed so many lines, but the moment she thought of actually saying them, her lips trembled and her eyes welled up.
No, no! Games aren't real life! She was supposed to be the one standing proudly by Kyousuke's side. All she needed to do was make them realize that.
Before she knew it, the familiar house came into view. Her lips twitched and her eyes burned again.
'I picked this house. I haven't even stayed here yet!'
'So unfair. So, so unfair!'
She shot a glare at Kyousuke, who was walking over to open the car door for her before the driver could.
With a cold snort, she stepped out, her legs clad in white stockings and her glossy black shoes gleaming.
"Thank you, Mr. Tōgaya," she said, turning toward the driver with a reserved smile.
"My pleasure," he replied, bowing.
"Well? What are you waiting for? Let's go!"
Eriri stared at the navy-blue gate and took a deep breath.
'Here I come!'
"If you like something, you've got to fight for it, Lily!" Her mother's words echoed in her mind.
She clenched her fists and pushed the gate open. Of course, someone had already registered her in the security system.
Behind her, Kyousuke followed with two massive suitcases, amused by Eriri's fiery determination. A rare sight indeed.
"I'm home~" he called out loudly, a habit of his.
Shouko and Naoka were already up.
Startled, Eriri tensed up, her entire body on alert.
She spun around and snapped, "What are you doing? Are you trying to announce me or something?!"
Kyousuke struggled not to burst out laughing.
'Announce you? Seriously, what kind of drama is playing in that little head of yours, Eriri?'
"Quiet down, you assistant!" she scolded, serious-faced. "You ruined my momentum!"
"Yes, Yes, ma'am."
"Once is enough…"
"Welcome home~~" a soft voice called out from the entryway. It was Shouko.
"U-uh… uh…"
Eriri, full of fighting spirit just moments ago, suddenly froze like a malfunctioning robot.
As she turned around, Kyousuke swore he could hear her gears jamming.
"Ah, you must be Sawamura-san. Welcome, welcome!" Shouko said brightly.
She had come down from the entrance in her pink loungewear, already in house slippers.
"H-Hello, I'm Sawamura Spencer Eriri. It's a pleasure to meet you."
Seeing the gentle smile on Shouko's face, Eriri blushed and quickly placed her hands neatly in front of her, bowing politely.
'What the heck, Eriri?! Why aren't you saying the lines you practiced?!'
'You were supposed to lift your chin, sneer a little, and say: "Oh, so you're Nishimiya Shouko. That brown hair is so tacky.'
Red-Eriri, the fiery version of herself, scolded her from inside.
But honestly, with that round, baby-faced smile and shoulder-length brown hair, Shouko looked like she'd walked out of a perfect character design sheet.
Even the strictest animation director wouldn't find a single flaw.
White-Eriri muttered something unintelligible in admiration.
Eriri, a half-Japanese ojou-sama who could charm a whole school with max-level social skills, was now completely flustered in front of such a kind-hearted "rival."
Any sense of aggression vanished the moment Shouko took her hands warmly.
Her mouth opened and closed, speechless.
'What now?! I've never faced this type of enemy, not even in games!'
"I'm Nishimiya Shouko. It's lovely to meet you."
Looking at Eriri, Shouko couldn't help but remember what she was like before meeting Kyousuke.
They'd already talked about Eriri last night.
Based on the autograph event, Shouko had expected her to be cold and standoffish—she hadn't said a single word to them then.
But now that she was seeing her up close, she was surprised at how shy and adorable she was.
Shouko couldn't help but hope Sakura would come back soon—she'd always claimed she was the timid one, but this girl clearly had her beat.
Sakura would adore her.
"Kyousuke-kun, do you have anything else to carry?"
"No, that's everything!" Eriri answered before Kyousuke could.
As soon as the words left her mouth, she wanted to smack herself.
'Come on, get it together! Show your resolve! Let her know you're the one Kyousuke loves most!'
Her lips moved, but no words came out.
She sighed internally.
'Mom… this is so hard… What am I even supposed to do?! This girl just surrendered without a fight—wouldn't it be bad form to launch an attack now?'
The three walked into the living room.
Naoka was seated on the carpet, busy stitching something on a piece of fabric.
Seeing another girl inside, Eriri instinctively prepared to bow and introduce herself—until she noticed Naoka didn't even look up.
Clearly not everyone in this house was welcoming.
At last, a situation where she could use one of the many lines her mom had taught her.
"This is the duvet Kyousuke picked out for you. I just made some adjustments. Let me know if it needs more work," Naoka said, standing up and handing it over.
"O-oh, thank you. That's really kind of you," Eriri stammered, her bangs practically covering her eyes.
Her mind was a mess.
"It's nothing. Kyousuke asked me to," Naoka replied flatly, then turned and walked to the couch without another word, flipping open a magazine.
Just a second ago, Eriri had thought she was dealing with another "surrender faction," but now she was stunned.
For a moment, she wasn't sure whether to chase after the girl and toss the blanket at her to show she wouldn't accept charity—or to act aloof and ignore her like the girl had done.
The former was too rude for someone of her upbringing, but the latter left her feeling frustrated and defeated.
"Hehe~ Sawamura-san, your room's on the second floor. Let me show you," Shouko said with a gentle smile, trying to ease the awkwardness.
Since hearing that two more girls were moving in, Naoka hadn't spoken a word to Kyousuke.
As Shouko turned to glance at him, he responded with a sheepish smile.
'Hehe… You're on your own now, Kyousuke-kun.'
Amused by the situation, Shouko didn't intend to interfere.
She never planned on competing with anyone for Kyousuke.
Just being able to stay by his side was enough.
Like Sakura once said, "No one could bring themselves to say anything bad to me when they really looked." That's fine—she would be everyone's friend. Hehe~
"Oh, thanks, Shouko," Eriri replied naturally—maybe a little too naturally.
As soon as the name left her lips, she froze.
Why did that come out so easily? Had she repeated the name too much last night?
"You're too polite, Eriri," Shouko said, accepting the blanket from her.
With Eriri's elegant, showy dress, she looked more like a doll than someone prepared to do any heavy lifting.
Though Kyousuke had mentioned Shouko was a year older, she looked like a child—cute, delicate, and deceptively innocent.
Eriri had never imagined her cohabitation with Kyousuke would begin like this.
But this girl—Nishimiya Shouko—why wasn't she even a little upset?
Shouldn't she be treating Eriri like some intruder trespassing on her territory?
Or was this just an act, a way to lower her guard?
Eriri, used to hiding behind the mask of a refined young lady to protect herself, considered the possibility.
But no—it didn't feel fake.
Having endured bullying from a young age and quickly learned how to survive the complex social dynamics of girls, she could at least tell when someone was being genuine.
And Shouko… really was.
"I'm heading out. Eriri, do you need anything while I'm gone?" Kyousuke asked, glancing at the two girls who had already started unpacking.
"Nothing for now. But wait—why…" Eriri paused, her eyes drifting to the digital drawing tablet, computer, and stylus on the desk.
"Hm? What is it?" Kyousuke asked.
"…Forget it. Just bring me back some cola."
Hmph.
So he really had planned to have her move in all along, huh? Why else would all the art gear already be set up?
Feeling strangely delighted, she decided to reward herself with a cold soda.
"OK!" he replied cheerfully.
The age of sneaking cola was officially over.
Because of her restrictive dress, Eriri couldn't help much with setting up.
Shouko ended up handling everything—making the bed, putting on the sheets, unpacking.
Watching this, Eriri started to feel annoyed with her "battle dress."
It was completely useless.
If a fight really broke out, she'd probably trip and fall before Naoka even got a hit in.
"Done! Kyousuke-kun mentioned you like to roll around a lot in bed, so I added extra fasteners to keep the blanket from getting all bunched up," Shouko said, kneeling on the bed with a satisfied smile.
She hadn't helped out because Kyousuke asked her to.
This was her own decision.
Just as Kyousuke had once reached out to help her, she wanted to do what she could for the girl who had helped him.
Even though Kyousuke couldn't draw at all when he was young, he had become a manga artist.
Eriri must have been a big part of that.
So now, Shouko wanted to do her part to help.
According to Kyousuke, Eriri had never lived away from home before.
Unlike Shouko and the others who had been around since childhood, this shy girl must be feeling very uneasy.
Shouko knew she had no right or power to persuade Naoka, but at the very least, she could show kindness.
Just like Sakura had once shared Kyousuke with her without hesitation.
No one knew this, but deep down, this timid girl who flinched at the slightest scare had always dreamed of being someone like Yamauchi Sakura—brave, kind, generous to the weak, unafraid of the strong.
And maybe, just maybe… being by Kyousuke's side would help her get there.
It might sound arrogant, but she'd already come a long way.
She was stronger than she used to be. She even had the strength now to support someone else.
Kyousuke had that kind of power—he could change people.
Just like he wrote in his stories: Some people, just by living their lives, are enough to save someone.
Shouko knew she might not be someone who could save others. But when someone saved her, she could at least carry her own weight and give it her all.
Besides… Kyousuke had once told her, You're my hero.
Hehe~ Just thinking about it made her giggle, cheeks puffed with happiness.
As long as she stayed cheerful, she knew it would ease Kyousuke's heart.
That was the best reward for everything he'd done for her.
And this girl—Eriri—surely had something in her life too, something that only Kyousuke could give.
"Shouko? Shouko?" Eriri called out, waving her hand in front of the girl's face.
Shouko had been sitting in a daze ever since she finished speaking, a goofy smile spreading across her face like she'd remembered something sweet.
"Ah, sorry! I zoned out," Shouko said, coming back to herself. "But now no matter how much you roll around, your blanket won't get all twisted!"
"Don't listen to that idiot. I do not roll around in bed!" Eriri huffed, blushing furiously.
A proper lady would never get so excited reading shoujo manga that she ended up hugging her blanket and tumbling off the bed in a fit of squeals.
"Hehehe, just like Kyousuke-kun said—you really are easy to fluster," Shouko giggled.
Why was that guy spilling all her secrets?
And more importantly, what was up with Shouko?
She had to like Kyousuke, right?
Then how could she be this kind to another girl who was clearly important to him?
No… this went way beyond just being nice.
If Eriri didn't know better, she'd think the two of them were childhood besties.
If it were her, and Kyousuke kept talking about some other girl, she'd slap tape over his mouth, make him write 10,000 words about her instead, and permanently ban all talk of that other girl.
"…Shouko, aren't you mad when you see me?" Eriri asked cautiously, sitting beside her.
Her mother always said such questions placed one in the weaker position, but here, in this room she now considered her own, she was off the battlefield.
And maybe—just maybe—Shouko could be an ally.
"Mad?" Shouko tilted her head slightly, quickly understanding what Eriri meant.
"Hehe~ If it's something Kyousuke-kun decided, I'll support it unconditionally."
Her voice was soft, like a cloud that could float away at any second—but there was undeniable conviction in it.
Looking at that smile, Eriri found herself speechless.
Thank god Shouko was harmless. Otherwise, she would've been a terrifying rival.