Worried Marika

After club hours, Having promised to escort Marika home to face her aunt together, I picked her up once I finished escorting the other girls.

I talked to her bodyguards, telling them that I’d be escorting her home. Luckily, they didn’t argue with me knowing what or who was waiting for her at home.

“Ruki-kun, I'm nervous,” Marika said as we were about to reach the school gate. Her hand on mine was cold and sweaty.

Looking at her downcast expression, it was clear to see that she had been occupied by the thoughts of what could happen in this coming meeting since earlier. Even hearing about Ichihara Jun’s fate of being sent to the Guidance Counselors didn't do much to abate her worry.

Nonetheless, I put on a reassuring smile as I tightened my hold on her cold hand, “Mhm. It's fine to feel that way, Marika. But trust me, alright? No matter what, I won’t leave your side.”

The girl raised her head and forced a smile before nodding, “Un. I trust you, Ruki-kun. Must I…”