Chapter 38: CH 37

The sound indicating an incoming call echoed from Kaoru’s phone as she was resting leisurely at the hotel after a fulfilling yakiniku lunch.

“Hmm, I wonder who it’s from.”

Picking up her phone, Kaoru sees the name of her senior from her university days displayed on the screen.

“A call from Senpai? Maybe it’s work-related.”

“Hello, this is Yusa.”

“Oh, Kaoru sweetie. I’m sorry for calling you when you must be tired after Comiket.”

“No, I was just relaxing, so it’s fine.”

“I’m glad to hear that.”

“But it’s unusual for you to call, Senpai. What’s up?”

“We had a photoshoot scheduled yesterday, but it was postponed because one model was involved in a traffic accident. We’re on hold for a week and are currently seeking a substitute model, although our requirements are quite strict.”

“Ah, I see. I think I got the gist of it.”

“Yes, that’s the situation. But I forgot to ask Yuki-chan’s phone number, so I thought you might know.”

“In that case, should I ask Yuki-kun now? His room is right next to mine.”

“Could you do that? If it’s okay with him, I’ll arrange a room for three, so you don’t have to worry about the hotel.”

“Understood. I’m going to Yuki-kun’s room now, so I’ll mute the call for a bit.”

“Got it.”

I knock on Yuki-kun’s door.

“Yes?”

I can faintly hear his voice.

“Yuki-kun, could you open the door?”

I called out to Yuki-kun, who came to the door.

“Sure, I’ll open it now!”

And with that, the door creaks open.

“Sorry for disturbing you, Yuki-kun. Can I come in for a bit?”

“Yes, is something wrong?”

Yuki-kun looks at me with a puzzled expression.

His face is so cute.

“Do you remember GloryCute’s manager?”

“I do!”

“Actually, he has a favor to ask you and called me. Can you take the call?”

“If it’s something I can do, of course!”

“Thank you, then let’s switch.”

“Okay!”

And so, I unmute the phone and hand it to Yuki-kun.

“Hello, this is Yuki speaking.”

“Oh, Yuki-chan. I’m sorry for calling out of the blue.”

“No problem at all! Did you need me for something?”

“I know it’s sudden, but I was wondering if you could do some part-time modeling work for a day or two?”

“H-Huh?! Me?”

“Yes, the model who was supposed to come had an accident and can’t move for a while. I’ve been having a hard time looking for a replacement. I thought that since you’re in Tokyo, I’d give it a shot and call you.”

“I wonder if I’m up to the task…”

“There’s no problem. I saw you in the costumes you wore, and they were perfect. That’s why I think you can do it.”

“Um, I won’t take responsibility if it doesn’t work out, okay?”

“No problem, sweetie.”

“Okay. I accept.”

“You’re a lifesaver! As for your compensation, I’ll secure a hotel for three days, including an extra day. Even if the shooting ends early, you’re welcome to use the hotel for all three days.

Next, I’ll pay you 50,000 yen per day. You can think of it as an inconvenience fee.”

“Th-That much?!”

“Calling someone urgently can be quite a hassle. Then again, asking someone who doesn’t fit the image we have in mind feels different, so it can’t be helped.”

“I see. I think it’s a little too much, but I’ll do my best!”

“Ah, and when you appear in the magazine, we’ll need to use a name. You wouldn’t want your real name, right?”

“I’d rather not…”

“In that case, would you be fine if we use Yuka-chan’s?”

“That might be better.”

“Got it. Tomorrow, I’ll send a staff member to pick you up from your hotel. Would that be okay?”

“Yes, that’s fine!”

“We’ll have our staff call you by Yuka’s name at the venue. Until then, take care, hun.”

“Okay!”

“Now, could you please put Kaoru-chan back on the phone?”

“Yes, Kaoru-san, the manager wants to speak with you again!”

“Ah, thank you.”

Kaoru takes back her phone and goes back to the room.

“I wonder what kind of shoot it will be.”

I’m a little excited and nervous.

“Yes, I’m back in the room now.”

“I got the okay from Yuki-chan. You really saved me. As a thank you, you’re free to accompany him to the shoot tomorrow.”

“R-Really?!”

“It’s a good opportunity to burn Yuki-chan’s cute appearance into your memory.”

“I’m looking forward to it.”

“So am I.”

With that, the call ended.

“I may only be watching from the sidelines, but being close to Yuki-kun makes me happy.”

Wishing for these moments to last, I surrendered myself to the bed, gradually slipping into sleep.