CH 41

After leaving Itsuki and the rest, Hinako entered the reception of the villa alone.

Her father, Kagen, was easily spotted. Like Itsuki, his attire was a black suit, but this one was made to measure as well as the finest brand. The servants of the Konohana family were required to wear expensive uniforms in order not to spoil the dignity of the family, but at the same time, in order to honor the head of the family, they were not allowed to wear clothes more expensive than the head of the family. Itsuki’s suit cost about 700,000 yen, but Kagen’s suit was very expensive, over a million yen.

“It’s been a while, Hinako.”

“Hello, father.”

Hinako replied to her father’s words in her plain voice.

“How was your exam?”

“…… No problems.”

“That’s fine. As the daughter of the Konohana family, you will continue to maintain an uncompromising performance.”

Kagen said without any joy or sorrow, as if he was making a business call.

“What about you, Itsuki-kun? It’s been almost a month since he became your caretaker. ……”

“… The best.”

Hinako replied, looking a little amused.

Kagen rounded his eyes.

“That’s unusual. I never thought Hinako would praise her caretaker that much.”

“I want to continue to be with Itsuki.”

“I see. Hiring a civilian who has nothing to do with the Konohana family was an experiment, but I’m glad to see that it worked out well.”

Without smiling, Kagen said plainly, as if he were a scientist who had just confirmed the success of an experiment. Then he looked at Hinako with his eyes.

“You’re not affected by anything extra, are you?”

“…… extra?”

“Even though his personality matches Hinako’s, Itsuki-kun is a civilian. There’s no need to get caught up in him and become tainted by the vulgar world.”

Hinako looked at him strangely, not quite understanding the meaning of his words.

“Let’s get moving. Hinako, please don’t do anything improper.”

Kagen said with a serious look on his face.

The next moment, Hinako immediately put on her mask.

“Yes, father.”

“…… good girl.”

As the princess among the princesses. As the most talented girl in the Imperial Academy, Hinako began her performance.

Kagen nodded his head in satisfaction as Hinako put on a warm smile.

A few minutes later, a car pulled up in front of the villa and the guests for the dinner arrived.

Hinako and Kagen went to the front of the car to greet the guests.

“Thank you for coming all this way.”

“Don’t say that, I like to come here. I’ve been told that today’s event is a private one.”

While Kagen solemnly welcomed the guests, the men who came exuded an air of fragility.

There were five guests. Two of them were executives of Chikamoto Shipbuilding and the other three were executives of Sea Japan United. All of them looked older than Kagen. The Konohana family must be the most prestigious among them, but I guess the difference in age and experience gives them more comfort.

“Hello, long time no see. Do you remember me?”

The president of Chikamoto Shipbuilding called out to Hinako.

Hinako responded with an amiable smile that she often showed at the academy.

“Yes, I do. When I was seven years old, I had the pleasure of greeting you at a social event.”

“Well, that was a long time ago, but thank you for remembering me. You’re still as polite as ever.”

The president of Chikamoto Shipbuilding said with a look of admiration.

“Oh, this is Konohana-san’s daughter?”

“Yes, I am. My name is Hinako.”

Kagen put his hand on Hinako’s back and urged her to come forward.

Hinako bowed reverently as she stepped in front of the executives of Sea Japan United.

“I’ve heard rumors. An acquaintance of mine has a child at the Imperial Academy. I’ve heard that you’re known as the perfect girl at the academy.”

“I’m flattered.”

Hinako bowed her head politely.

“You have excellent grades and a promising future. I’m sure Konohana-san is very proud to have a daughter with such a high reputation …….”

“Yes. I am grateful that my daughter has grown up so perfectly.”

Kagen then took a quick look around at the guests.

“I’m sure you’re tired of standing around talking, so let’s move to the venue. At Chikamoto-san’s request, we’ve set up a table outside.”

“It’s a beautiful day. It’s not like we’re having a serious meeting, so let’s just relax and enjoy the breeze.”