Chapter- 20

"...Mmh, that's fine."

　...While I was talking to Rika-san (in my mind I had given up on calling her mom. I'm sure she'd forgive me if I suddenly called her Rika-san, okay), Rie-san was sulking.

　"I'm sorry."

　"I'm sure you think I'm a sloppy person, too. A jerk who doesn't do what she's supposed to do."

　"There's no way you'd think something like that. You were able to figure out the assignment on your own, and someone who isn't doing things properly can't do that."

　It's true that she's a first-year student, so the assignments may still be easy. But even so, if she doesn't fully understand the content, she won't be able to solve them. That alone is enough to show that Rie is working hard at her studies...

　"...Really? You don't hate me?"

You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

　"Of course! There's no way I'd hate you."

　"...I see. In that case, okay. If you understand, Mamoru, then I don't mind but my mother being mean to me!"

　"You're doing really well. Well then, I guess your annoying mother will go take a bath."

　With those words, Rika left us. I thought it was about time for me to go home, but when I was about to say goodbye, Rie started talking first.

　"...So now it's just the two of us, right? Um... do you want to do something naughty?"

　"What!? What are you talking about?! Didn't I tell you yesterday that it's not okay to say things like that?!"

　I ended up raising my voice at the unexpected suggestion. I feel a little bad for Rie, but... Rie is many times worse for teasing me!

　"Yeah. But even so, if it's you, Mamoru... I don't care what you do to me, okay?"

　"...Does that mean you want to do something naughty, Rie? Or do you just want me to be by your side?"

　Rie-san's face was red, but she didn't look away and said, "In that case, I should respond properly."

　"...I don't know. It's the first time I've felt this way, yeah. I don't really understand. ...But, if I'm with you, Mamoru, I don't mind those kinds of things."

　"...I see. In that case, it's okay to worry about it. But if, just if, you really do want to do something like that, please let me know. Until then, I'll always be by your side."

　"...Yeah, I get it. I should have to be thought it properly."

　"Yeah. We've only been talking properly for two days, well, a little over a day, so I think it's not too late to get to know each other a little better."

　"...I see. You want to know more about me, Mamoru."

　"H-I don't mean it in a weird way!"

　"I know."

　Rie's expression was gentle as she said that and smiled. It wasn't the innocent, cute smile she had during dinner, but a smile like an older sister that embraced her. They seemed like complete opposites, but both brought out the best in Rie's charm.