From what happened yesterday, its only a matter of time before everyone could properly link Marika to me. Moreover, I doubt wed be able to stop ourselves from being drawn to each other.

One of these days, she might even show up in our classroom just for that chance to see me or I would do it myself, regardless of whether their followers are around or not.

And so, by telling Hayashi-sensei about it in advance, it wouldnt shock her anymore when she found out in the future.

Her reaction was also within my expectations. Shes aware of the power behind those two names. If I recall correctly, the Ichihara Family might even be one of the donors in the school. Although not enough to usurp Hayashi-senseis authority, they definitely had some power being exercised. Hence, despite the problematic spoiled brat, he remained untouched in this school.

As for Marika. Maybe the Ichihara or her own family also arranged something for her.

Now that I put my foot in that water, its now a muddled mess that could give Hayashi-sensei another bout of headache.

Shortly after raising her voice, the woman once again put a hand on her forehead as she weakly rested her back.

Well, as a selfish idiot, I really only cared about my girls, never did I think about how it would affect the others. And this time, Hayashi-sensei had been implicated.

I felt a pang of guilt but thats all. I was still not compelled to change my decision.

Yes. You can say I am mad, sensei.

Brat. I get that youre brave and you have your parents behind you. However, its not a simple issue you can just gloss over.

I fully understand the risk. I already confided in my parents about this decision. But sensei, do you really think that sweet girl deserved to be with someone like Ichihara Jun? She deserved some freedom.

Freedom, huh? Then why does it sound like youre gonna take her in as well? How many girls are with you already? Wont she just be another number on the list? How is that freedom?

She got a point. However, she drew that up from the limited information that Ive given to her. But then again, since I was already set on making Marika mine and the girl also made her choice to be with me, what Hayashi-sensei said would definitely be the conclusion in this situation.

In the end, from the outer perspective, shes still going to be a caged bird. Shes just going to move from one cage to another.

Because its going to be her own choice, sensei. It wont be an arranged marriage that our families set up. She deserved that much. Though, I admit that Im also at fault for being the one she turns to after I opened her eyes about it.

Youre not going to change your mind?

Never.

Heh. That sounded like what your father said to me before. But this isnt about me or you, Onoda-kun.

I see. She also asked the same question to him, huh? Surely, its whether my father would ever change his mind about my mother. And at that point, hes already head-over-heels to my mother.

Mhm. That much I understand sensei. Youre concerned for Marika.

Hayashi-sensei nodded as she sat up, her expression turning serious.

What will you say if I summon Kujou to talk about this topic? I want to hear her side and maybe give her advice too. If she still chooses you by the end of it, I will leave you two alone.

Nothing? Its not in my place to tell you what to do, sensei. I shrugged. Its easy to guess what shes trying to do here. Apart from her genuine concern about Marika since shes more than aware of the power of both the Ichihara and the Kujou, shes probably also going to try and understand me through that girl. How my head works or why should I risk stepping in between the two giant families just for her

I also believe Marika truly needs more than just my guidance. I know Im not perfect for it and I want what's best for her. I dont want her to regret her choice in the future. Among the adults nearby, I can trust you enough not to make it difficult for her, sensei. I continued with a sincere tone.

Perhaps not expecting me to say that, Hayashi-sensei intently stared at me, observing me dearly.

Hmm... I dont know if youre just full of yourself but Im glad youre not going to be stubborn with this. Dont worry. Shizu and Kujou, I will only talk to them and hear their side. Don't people say that youll be best known to the ones closest to you? I also have this nagging thought to understand you.

She paused for a moment there. From the way her body was correcting her sitting posture, she was clearly preparing herself for something else.

A few seconds later. With a bitter smile on her lips, she continued, Your father... Even if hes a smug idiot who looked like he already had it all together even during his first year in high school, he remained diligent at everything, not making a mistake every step of the way.

Ah. This woman. Shes definitely too lovestruck towards my father. Even if she didnt end up being the one he fell in love with, she never resented him for it.

In fact, she probably watched him day by day until they got separated. And even after years of having no contact with him or finding out that hes already married, that didnt change.

Well, she did try making her move. But its already too late.

Maybe Im really too full of myself. I wont deny that. You see, sensei. I dont want to lose any of them. Thats why... I became like this. Call it naivety or arrogance but theres no other path in our current societal norm for what I am trying to accomplish. And for the girls, I will never coerce them to stay with me. They always have the freedom to leave me...

I will continue returning to this office in the future. Might as well try to be open to one another. That way, theres no need for us to put on an act and gauge each others intentions. It would be tiring to do that every time.

Hopefully, Hayashi-sensei could pick up on my intention...

Will you continue being like this in the future? Can you say for certain that your will wont ever break?

Leaning forward slightly, Hayashi-senseis countenance now had the hint of her concern towards me. I dont know how shes seeing me through the lens of her eyes but theres no doubt... Shes genuinely curious about my plans or rather, if I will even change at all.

She could continue to deny it but part of her still saw my father within me. And for sure, it would be hard for her not to do so no matter how different I am from him...

Yes, sensei. Youre welcome to continue watching over me. In return... As I trailed my voice there, I stood up from my seat and made my way towards her. I squatted a bit and reached for her hand, clasping it between my palms, ... allow me to be of help to you as well.

Not expecting this development at all, Hayashi-sensei could only get stuck staring silly at me. Her lips quivered and her face contorted to an indescribable expression. Whatever was in her head, I could be certain that rejection wasnt at the forefront.