Chapter- 29

"…What does that mean?"

　I could understand if she gave me a spare key because she trusted me. But I don't understand why she would want to give me a spare key.

　"Rie is the most important person to me. If it came down to whether Rie or I could survive, I would have no hesitation in choosing Rie. But even so, I wasn't there to protect her when she was going through the most difficult times."

　"…it is"

　“Of course, I know there’s no point in talking about what’s already happened. Besides, something similar might happen in the future. And when that happens again, there might not be anything I can do. So…”

　"...So you want me to protect you, Rie?"

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　"...Yes. I know it's selfish, but please. I'll do anything I can."

　Saying this, Rika-san bowed deeply. But I would do that even if you didn't ask me to. Because I love Rie-san. I've decided to do everything in my power to protect Rie-san.

　"If that's the case, then I don't mind... However, I must tell Rie and ask if she'd be okay with me having a spare key."

　"...Thank you. For caring about that child."

　"I also enjoy being with her, Rika-san, so please don't mind."

　"...Yeah. If that's what you say, then I'll do it."

　Then Rika-san smiled. Her smile, which still had a hint of apologetic feeling in it, quickly turned into a sly grin. ...I have a bad feeling about this.

　"I have one more request for you, Mamoru-san."

　"…Yes, what is it?"

　"Could you please wake Rie up?"

　"...Huh?"

　I thought so!! That means I'll be going into Rie's room, right?! That means I'll be able to see her sleeping face, right?! That means she'll be in her pajamas, right?!

　"No, no! That would be an invasion of privacy!"

　"Oh, it's my fault for not waking up. Besides, I think being late would be a problem for her. Right? I thought you are helping her."

　…That may be true. It's already past 7:15, and if she don't get up soon, She'll probably be late. As a guy, I can leave the house in about 15 minutes at worst, but girls say it takes time to get ready...

　"...Maybe her mother will go and get her?"

　"Mugu! ...That's fine, but it would be troublesome if you kept relying on me. That's why I think it would be better if you felt a bit embarrassed."