Chapter 4 Nawagami-san and the Spartan Retake Exam Prep

The communication English class, Third Period, on a certain day:

"H-Hey, Nawagami-san. My usual partner is absent today, so, um—"

"..."

"No, seriously, if it's impossible or a hassle, you can definitely refuse, I just thought—"

"—Isn't Japanese prohibited in this class? (Why are you talking in Japanese?)"

"Eh? ...Um, so, are you really going to partner up with me?"

"You must be asking me because there's no one else and you have no other choice."

"W-That sounds rude, but... No, forget it. Thank you, seriously."

"Hmph... So? It's unpleasantly loud next to me. Who is causing all the—GHH!"

"Hey, hey, Seishirou. I heard a dipping-style ramen shop opened up near school, so let's go sometime?"

"I don't mind, but I'm not doing the 'who can eat more' challenge anymore. Yuika, you're too strong."

"Hehehn, I won before we even started... And listen, remember the midterms?"

"Yes, but let me guess. You failed one subject, right?"

"Yeah, just math... Seriously, wasn't it super hard this time? The last problem made no sense, so I gave up immediately and started planning where I'd travel this summer."

"It's true that Okazaki-sensei's exam setting was quite difficult this time... Did you decide on a travel destination?"

"Um, first day, Kagawa, and eat tons of Udon. Second day, Ishikawa, and eat tons of Crab."

"Y-You're going to eat a lot and move around a lot!"

"And, and... why don't you come too, Seishirou? I'll cover the travel costs somehow!"

"No, no, no, that involves all kinds of problems... And what do you mean by 'somehow'?"

"I'll steal it from my older brother. He seems to be hoarding a massive amount of savings."

"You were hesitating, so maybe we should choose a milder means... Whoa!"

"What's wrong, Seishirou? 'Look behind me'? Behind... Whoa! N-Nawagami?!"

"Hey idiot. Speak English. (Stop flirting and stop trying to drag my exclusive butler along.)"

"Sorry, you're right... But I never thought I'd see the day Nawagami-san lectured me."

Most clubs at our school are primarily enjoyment-oriented, and the soccer club is no exception.

So, it wasn't strange that I was asked to participate in a scrimmage because a member had injured himself recently. Since I had played before, it was probably easier for them to ask me.

And so, it was evening after moving my body as a temporary midfielder for the day.

"Watching a soccer match always makes me intensely nostalgic for my first love..."

On the way back from the grassy field to the Student Council room, Miran suddenly brought up a romantic topic.

"Oh, really? We've known each other for quite a while, and this is the first I've heard about your love life."

"Hmph. I simply choose not to show it to Seishirou-senpai, but I have my maidenly side."

"I'm sure you do, but I only seem to see the behind-the-scenes version... By the way, what kind of person was he?"

Despite her sharp glare, I persisted. She brought it up, so I figured it was okay.

"He played midfielder. He wasn't just handsome; he had this mystical charm. And above all,"

Miran blushed. How incredible was this person she was praising so heavily?

"He would momentarily stop time, then fly through the air with wings before shooting the ball."

Oh my god, she was talking about super-dimensional soccer... What is with this literary trick! It's utterly confusing.

"Right. I told you about my love life, so now you disclose yours."

"That's such a cheap negotiation tactic. And what are we even talking about?"

"I'm asking how far you and Nawagami-senpai have gone, you idiot!"

"I told you already; it's not like that...!"

It seems Miran's mind has already determined the outcome. What incredible fixation. Is this a werewolf game?

"In any case. There's nothing interesting to tell."

"Don't evade the question! I already have intel, and I came here specifically to watch and follow you, even reapplying my sunscreen! Spit it out, now!"

"Didn't you just not want to stay in the room alone, like last time?"

I countered, but I already had a guess about the "intel" Miran had obtained.

"It's said that Nawagami-senpai, who detests involving herself with others, has completely opened up to Seishirou-senpai—The simple answer might be that she's shallow and only cares about looks, but my observation is that Nawagami-senpai is the type who prefers to keep men like that at a distance."

"Your analytical skills have suddenly skyrocketed..."

Since there were few people passing by, Miran relentlessly pressed me in her true voice. I desperately wished someone would walk past us.

"Speaking of which. You said a while back that you wanted to get along with Nawagami-senpai. Did that aim succeed, somehow? Did you develop a good relationship? Did you go out somewhere? Hold hands? Or something else... Could it be, even a kiss already?"

"...Hmm."

"What is that snarky reaction, like, 'Are you still stuck on that low level?'"

"No, I was just being asked fairly normal things. I thought something more specific might come up, like, Do you gently tantalize her instead of touching her violently—COLD!"

A cold pack was suddenly slapped onto my arm like a card trick.

"D-Don't say something so explicit! Are you insane?!"

"? I think so... No, I apologize! I was the abnormal one; my sensibilities are dulled!"

"Seriously, what has happened to you, Seishirou-senpai—stop running off like that!"

Ashamed and immensely sorry toward Miran, I suddenly burst into a short dash.

...But no, I definitely can't disclose the reality of Nawagami-san's actions to Miran.

If I told her everything—about the restraining session, the moment I saw her in a bind that she couldn't remove, and the fact that she respected the nuances of our relationship by saying one-sided violence was unacceptable but light paddling might be okay eventually—Miran would surely collapse and foam at the mouth.

"B-But seriously. Didn't you say that you wouldn't pursue Nawagami-san before?"

"Ah, well... I've rethought my stance, you see."

Miran checked for the nth time that her bangs weren't disturbed by the wind.

"I hear Nawagami-senpai is no longer tardy and is, surprisingly, attending her classes now."

"Ah, yes. Her attendance rate is noticeably better compared to before."

"While I'm mildly annoyed by the subtle hint of pride in your voice... I assume you were the one who subtly nudged her into behaving?"

"You could say that. I directly told her she should at least maintain minimal academic integrity."

“I'm going to order you to do a few things while you're in that state (the D.M. surrendered state). No oversleeping. Behave yourself in class. Stop giving me your silly excuses, like 'I'm not bothering anyone,' or 'It's only me that suffers,' so it's okay. What's your answer?”

“Yess, I under-shhhhtand! ♥♥ ...Well, I do understand, but—”

“But what?”

“I was just wondering about the punishment if I broke a rule... that might... ♥”

“—Unfortunately, I won't do anything to you. I'll just get a little sad, and that's the end of it.”

“Th-That's a lie! I'm kidding! ...Ugh, that method of chastisement is so cheap, Master!”

...This was closer to the actual reality, but please forgive me for the small discrepancy.

"So that means Nawagami-senpai was, unexpectedly, a reasonable person... And my prejudice about gyarus not being nice to Otaku was splendidly wrong."

Miran's sigh contained both amazement and resignation, but she wasn't as sulky as she was when we discussed this last time.

"Besides, if Seishirou-senpai is so deeply involved with her, she can't be all bad. If so, why would I say anything negative about her? I wouldn't want to hear trash-talk about someone I think well of."

"..."

"Why are you staring at me so intently?"

"No, nothing. I just realized how much I admire that side of you, Miran... GYAH!"

The cold pack was slapped onto my face this time. It felt squishy and unpleasantly cool!

"I seriously think that aspect of the Senpai is detrimental, and I've had enough. If you insist on hiding Nawagami-senpai that badly, I won't ask about her again... Hmph!"

"Y-You're sulking just like Yuika."

"Don't you dare compare me to her!"

"Was the scrimmage over already?!"

As the two of us walked together and reached the school building's entrance.

As if a rumor could make something appear, we bumped into a late-arriving Yuika.

"Yes. We just got back now."

"Ehhhh... I finally got out of supplementary classes and thought I could have some fun..."

Yuika was clearly disappointed, and for some reason, she let out a weak Pii sound on the whistle hanging from her neck. (Yuika is also somewhat athletic, so she might have wanted to join the match.)

"If you want to move so much, we can play Futsal sometime when we're free."

"Tch! Tch tch tch!"

A tongue-click, deliberately loud enough to be heard by her target, echoed among the three of us.

In a sense, it was a match-starting whistle.

"The scrimmage was ostensibly about a competition, so why should I bother with a childish game?"

"Hmph. It's not a game; I'm quite athletic, you know! Unlike you, Miran!"

"Is that so? But I don't push my work onto others, do I? ♪"

"Th-That has nothing to do with this! And I always think you're way too bossy for a junior!"

"Hehe, that's quite a minority opinion. Most students probably think I'm a reserved and cute girl... You must be disappointed, you slutty girl!"

"You insidious faker! You should at least thank me for not revealing your true nature! And you know nothing about soccer, so you should have just stayed in the Student Council Room!"

"I know a lot about it! I've diligently watched all the Blue Lock manga, you know!"

"It's not 'diligent study' if you're only watching the anime! Ugh, that's what I hate about Otaku!"

"Oh, here comes the generalization and negativity! That would get instantly flamed online!"

...I replaced the cold pack on my arm with a fresh one on the back of my neck. The coolness felt pleasant.

And as for their bickering, it happens often enough, so there was no need to panic. In fact, Miran only allows herself to talk venomously like that with me and Yuika. If anything, it meant they were pretty close friends.

"And besides, I'm better at fieldwork than desk work! I even taught Nawagami in supplementary class after I finished my own assignments!"

"Hah! What good is an idiot teaching an idiot... Wait, you're talking about Nawagami-senpai again? Forget about her; we just had a passionate debate about her, anyway!"

"...Wait, stop. Nawagami-san had a supplementary class, too?"

"TCHHHHHHHH!"

Miran delivered her biggest Tch of the day, but I was too curious to care.

"Yeah. And she has makeup exams for all five subjects, so she has to stay behind and work or something."

"R-Really?"

"...Honestly, it's a catastrophe that would make one suspect fraudulent enrollment."

This was catastrophic enough, but the concluding sentence was even more unbelievable.

"The teachers were discussing that there's an actual possibility of her being held back a year."

By the evening of the same day, when I returned to the apartment and transformed into my exclusive butler form, I was fully aware of the situation. I had all the details of just how dire her situation was.

"I know I asked him to become a Sadistic Master, but..."

But despite my worry, the person in question seemed largely unconcerned.

In the living room, Nawagami-san, in a state of repose on the sofa, was mumbling to herself.

"When things have too much meaning, the pleasure seems to be discounted... No, getting lectured or disciplined while we've reversed the dominant/submissive roles is fine, but... The time I spend sincerely studying when I'm back to my senses is blatantly the Kenja Time phase..."

The crackling noise from the wafer-like dessert she was eating was almost louder than her voice.

...No, I can't be lackadaisical about this.

I picked up the TV remote and cut off the anime Nawagami-san was watching.

"! What do you think you're doing?! The part where the protagonist with six girls on the side finally gets what's coming to him from the most mentally unstable heroine was just about to start!"

That's an incredibly twisted hobby.

"...Ojou-sama. Is it true that you have makeup midterms in all five subjects a week from now?"

"Eh? Oh, it seems so (total detachment)."

"This is a grievous matter. Moreover, I have already secured this from Miyashiro-sensei, your homeroom teacher."

I said, placing a stack of printed papers, her answer sheets for the midterm—which clearly showed a scorched-earth academic performance—next to Nawagami-san.

"Modern Japanese, 13 points. Mathematics, 22 points. Politics and Economics, 9 points—As you can clearly see, immediate measures are necessary. Therefore, I insist on joining you to address this."

I was interrupted halfway through with a sharp, "Wait a minute!" and her palm was pushed toward me.

"Are you, by any chance, attempting to tutor me? You can't be serious, right? ...You're not planning to eventually push me to 'go to Tokyo University,' are you?"

"I won't go that far, but Ojou-sama has a significant risk of being held back a year if this continues."

Failing tests alone rarely results in such severe punishment.

However, if it's coupled with frequent tardiness and absences, and other detrimental factors, the outcome changes... apparently. I only learned this today, as I had never researched the retention criteria before.

“If she messes up these makeup exams, the Promotion Review Committee will have to convene. It'll be the first time in ten years. We'll have to refer to the rules from when I was a student here, haha! It's an achievement, in a way.”

“This is no laughing matter!”

“Oops, you're right. Then I'll present you with Nawagami's answer sheets, so that won't happen.”

Miyashiro-sensei, who always looked lethargic, chuckled dismissively at my question.

We'll probably manage it somehow, he said optimistically... But what if we don't?

"Hmph. To distribute a person's answer sheets without permission... What were you and the teacher thinking?"

"I will accept any resulting punishment later—Fortunately, I possess a methodology for rapid, short-term academic improvement. While the remaining time is limited, please trust me and follow my lead."

"I-I know that's not what I should be concerned about, but that's not what I'm saying—"

"This will require a significant amount of your time. I sincerely ask for your cooperation."

I implored Nawagami-san with more sincerity and ownership than the matter should have called for.

"...This is a personal wish of mine. I truly want us to graduate together."

When I added my earnest appeal, Nawagami-san sat up from her prone position on the sofa and looked at me.

It was a request that the old her would have never accepted.

But in the course of the past week, I had embraced the S-mode she craved, and each time, she had complied.

If I gave her a cold command, she would joyfully accept it.

I hoped that the current Nawagami-san would listen if I strongly intervened.

"Ah, I see. They haven't told you that much. Hmmm, in that case..."

Nawagami-san seemed to deliberate over the issue while I remained in a polite bowing stance—

"No! No, no, absolutely NO—!"

Don't scream like that, for God's sake...

"As you can see, I am completely exhausted from my supplementary classes... I'm suffering from an inhuman level of fatigue, enough that I need rich, fatty foods, ice cream, and uninterrupted anime in a cool room to recover."

That's the kind of fatigue a single day should solve.

"Plus... constantly listening to someone degrade me as a pervert into my ear is effective for recovery, too, I think ♥."

"Ojou-sama. That's enough sleep-talking. Please start to feel a sense of urgency right now."

When I deflected her lustful, pleading gaze, Nawagami-san immediately became fiercely angry.

"Wait! What more do you want from me? I've been trying so hard recently! I attend school properly, go to class, and even put on a polite social face. All because Master-mode Imashino commanded it... I've put up with all that tedious effort and have been compliant!"

I was about to say, That's what everyone else does, but I stopped myself.

The rhythm of her objection completely destroyed my short, silent inner poem.

"But I managed to do it! I genuinely didn't mind being subjected to your absolute control, Imashino-kun, of all people. Because I asked for it! But... don't you think there are limits to everything?"

"However—"

"Enough! If I keep trying this hard, I'm going to snap!"

"..."

"You think I'm already broken, don't you?"

"Absolutely not, Ojou-sama!"

Since the persecution complex started to manifest, it was clear that she was heavily distressed.

"I can't do it anymore. It's useless no matter what words you use to stop me. I'm at my limit!"

"P-Please wait, Ojou-sama!"

Nawagami-san stood up, trying to retreat into her own room. I frantically searched my internal database for S-Dom Master vocabulary to stop her... My stock must have been exhausted because I couldn't find anything.

But what should I do? Skipping the supplementary class prep is simply not an option. At this rate, she really will be held back. Being a junior by herself is no joke.

I searched for a method, failed, and fell into distress.

Nawagami-san—she paused and looked back at me once, clearly pleading for something.

"But, yes... if you use brute force to compel me, I might not be able to resist any further. Not just words, but a physical demonstration... Hehe ♥♥"

Nawagami-san continued to assess my reaction with seductive eyes.

...Even if the dominant/submissive roles are reversed like this, my core duty of servicing her hasn't changed.

"—I said stop right there!"

Through my black glove, I tightly grabbed Nawagami-san's upper arm.

The strength I used wasn't meant to cause pain but to firmly convey my determination.

"!! ... ~~~~~~ ♥"

"This is the same as always. This is my choice, and you have no say in the matter. —So? Are you the kind of person who can't even endure one week of confinement and restraint?"

"..."

"Answer me! Now!"

"No! I can endure it, Master! ♥♥"

"Then sit here! —Time is precious. No more complaints!"

I pulled her toward the dining table and forced her into the chair.

Nawagami-san, who had completely abandoned her previous refusal, quickly reverted her stance.

Her eyes were glassy and vacant, constantly shifting between my face and the arm I had seized.

"Hey, Imashino-kun... I could easily kick most ordinary people's asses, you know."

That's not the right expression for this conversation.

"I took kickboxing and judo lessons before. If I wanted to, I could seriously rough someone up. Including you, of course... But, you know? The moment you grabbed my arm like that, I instinctively thought, 'Ah, I can't oppose this person.' That feeling is genuinely so exciting... ////"

"Once again, let me be clear. Despite Ojou-sama's requests, I will absolutely not use direct physical violence or other crude acts. Please understand that is a non-negotiable line for me."

"I know that. And that's exactly why it's so fulfilling. The fact that a mild-mannered person like you becomes forceful only with me. That feeling of superiority is utterly irresistible! ♥"

"In that case, let's start with Chemistry (ignoring her). I'll also prepare a drink for you."

I pressed the schedule on her, taking advantage of her being distracted by her own inner musings.

It was normally the time I started dinner preparation, but I would have to delay it today.

"...Hmm. That dismissive indifference is becoming your specialty, isn't it? My expectations for the future have only increased."

Don't you dare write that down.

The exam prep period between Nawagami-san and me began.

The passing line for all make-up exams was a consistent fifty points. Since she needed to score at least half on every subject, maximizing efficiency within this single week was paramount.

The plan was simple: memorize minimum knowledge, master the technique of eliminating options for multiple-choice questions, understand essential formulas, and finally, recognize the patterns in the types of questions her teachers favor. I had successfully used this method to raise Yuika's grades from dead last to roughly below average. She could absolutely trust me.

"The results of the quizzes are good, Ojou-sama. At this rate, you will definitely pass the make-up exams."

"I suppose so... (A mix of sadness and resignation)"

"Is there something on my face, Ojou-sama?"

"Nothing... Hah..."

Nawagami-san wilted a little more each day. But whether due to her fundamental intelligence or some other factor, she absorbed knowledge incredibly fast when taught. Especially English; I have no idea how she ever failed it. Her accent when speaking aloud sounded remarkably native-like.

Yet, a sense of discomfort—a something isn't right feeling—persisted in my mind.

...Well, maybe Nawagami-san was just someone who could achieve anything if she put in the effort. If she were genuinely incapable, she wouldn't have been accepted into this school, right? The backdoor admission theory... surely that's not it?

In any case, if things continued this smoothly, we would be fine.

And, of course—trouble inevitably only strikes precisely when you're getting complacent.

It was Sunday, the day before the make-up exams.

"Good morning, Ojou-sama. Now, today is for the final push... Oh?"

I walked into the living room, which was bright with a cheerful morning sun.

I accidentally stepped on something, which I initially thought was a hair band.

But when I picked it up, I realized what it was.

A fancifully designed pair of handcuffs, adorned with bright crimson fluff.

...I can accept its existence, but don't just leave it lying around!

"The Ultimate Pervert who eats ice cream whenever she has a chance... I swear, Gah! She's here!"

I was about to go and wake up the culprit (my assumption) when I saved the trouble.

Nawagami-san was sprawled out behind the sofa. It looked like she'd passed out on the hardwood floor. That much was acceptable; I was just surprised.

The only other problem was... her clothing. Her attire. Her look.

Yes, she was sleeping in nothing but lingerie.

"......................... Seriously, what the hell is wrong with this woman?"

Every time a soft little breath escaped her lips, her body, lying in slumber, subtly shifted.

With each movement, my gaze was involuntarily drawn to the contrast between her pale skin and the red garment. Her plump thighs immediately drew the eye, and her perfectly shaped bust and hips seemed to confidently declare, Hello, I'm here! Her exposed state was far too stimulating, and I absolutely couldn't maintain eye contact with her.

...Look. I'm not exactly a saint, okay? I definitely like big tits and a firm ass. But I keep those preferences private; I have common decency!

So, please, don't display yourself in such a ridiculously erotic manner right in front of a person like me. It feels like some kind of brutal spiritual training to maintain my composure, and seriously, why does Nawagami-san have a mole there, and NO, never mind that—just wake up and put some clothes on!

The situation was utterly ruined. But the challenge she presented to me was a three-hit combo.

"What? What is this? E-E-EEH!?"

I noticed that a collection of the handcuffs' festive friends—other types of specialized merchandise—were scattered all around the area. They all looked cute, but upon closer inspection, I realized some were whips, others looked like oral restraints... Now that I possessed more unfortunate knowledge, the whole situation was making me even sicker.

"...N-No, I'm fine. Okay. I can regain my composure. I can calm down...!"

In this absurd situation, I attempted my personal form of self-control.

I focused on the irreplaceable presence in my life—my sister, Rittan.

After picturing my imaginary sister, I questioned if my current self would be someone she could be proud of.

I took deep breaths. I couldn't lose my nerve. I am sincere, I am a gentleman, I am an exclusive butler...

As my consciousness gradually stabilized, the imaginary Rittan whispered to me,

"Onii-chan, you make a girl call you 'Master'... That's seriously gross."

"N-No, Rittan, this is purely a provisional measure based on suitability...!"

"Munyua... if you do that again, I'm seriously going to give it to you... Nnnnn... ahh."

"Eh?"

Nawagami-san suddenly stretched after a mysterious sleepy grunt, pulling herself into a seated position.

She looked blankly at me for about thirty seconds, with our eyes locked...

"...Is it morning already? ...Yawn... Gulp-gulp..."

She unsteadily stood up and started brushing her teeth by the sink. While the sound of her electric toothbrush hummed in the background, she showed no shame for her state of near-nudity and didn't look angry, either.

...No, she should be angry! This is the perfect moment to snap! Why is she so calm?!

...No, wait. Why do I have to be the one who gets scolded! Just put some damn clothes on!

"O-Ojou-sama, please forgive me for the terrible intrusion. My lack of consideration is unforgivable."

"Spit! What are you talking about?"

"We seem to have crossed paths while you were changing."

While I covered both my eyes with my black-gloved hands, I heard the sound of her gargling and a voice that seemed completely unconcerned.

"Oh, this? ...No, it's not. It was unusually warm last night, so I decided to sleep like this."

Ah, so that's why. I see, I see.

By the way, Ojou-sama, could you please take a moment to consider why humans invented air conditioning?

"In any case, I apologize profoundly."

"It's fine. I already showed you a much more humiliating side of myself (the D.M. aroused chemise figure) during our first meeting. Compared to that, this is nothing. Besides, you've seen every moment of me: when I wake up, right after I shower... You've seen all the moments, haven't you?"

It seems she was going to forgive me. Even so, it's an utterly strange state of affairs.

"See? So I'm not angry now. You've already accepted that I'm always a beautiful girl, regardless of time, and even with no makeup. Just look at me."

"I will graciously accept the pardon, but please refrain from moving around so much."

"Refrain from moving? What are you saying? If I don't stretch, my neck hurts."

"That move clearly targets the shoulder blades, doesn't it...!"

The sudden stretches caused her tits to wobble and bounce, and even her underarms were visible.

...Hah. Before I'm completely drained and speechless, I should ask the one important question.

"I have one more question. Where did those handcuffs and other items come from?"

"Ah, those...? Hehe. Hehe-hee, fu-fu-fu... Ah-hahahaha!"

That's a terrifying laugh.

"Sometimes... I buy that kind of merchandise and simply look at them. That's all I do."

What she does is even scarier.

"You're thinking, 'Why don't you try them out in reality?' Naturally, I still haven't summoned the courage for that ///."

Nawagami-san rubbed her eyes, a faint blush creeping onto her face. Is she only blushing now?

"Also, I value emotional connection, so I want to foster my fantasy life even more... Ah, but if Master said he would use them on me, I'd give it my full consideration. In fact, I'd be overjoyed that you're that keen on this! ♥"

"Understood, but for now, please wear this."

I handed her the dress shirt I found nearby and took the liberty of continuing the conversation myself.

"I am aware of all that, but after breakfast, we must begin the final push for your exams."

"...Wait. If I think about it, is this what they call a Kareshi-shatsu (Boyfriend's shirt)? ... Pout ///"

"There's no Pout. We are commencing the final study push immediately. You understand, don't you?"

"Y-You are persistent... Say, what final push?"

Nawagami-san was still drowsy, but now she was looking bewildered.

"The make-up exams, Ojou-sama. Time moves quickly, and the test is tomorrow."

"Make-up exams...? Make-up exams... Uuuuugh... AAAAAAHHHH!"

"O-Ojou-sama!" She suddenly began clutching her head in terror. I gently smoothed down her bed hair.

"Are you all right? Please tell me if you are feeling unwell."

"My mentality is trash, but it's not a cold or anything physical."

Good. She was lightly dressed, practically wearing nothing, so I was concerned about that.

"I am relieved. I understand this is stressful, but it's far better than failing, isn't it?"

"Better...? Did you say better? Do you think my current situation is better than the alternative? ...SCREW YOU! Don't you feel even slightly pity for me?!"

She had snapped. I no longer had any idea where her emotional switches were located.

"You're not the type to cry 'pity' and break down, are you, Imashino-kun!"

"I don't think a person like that exists, outside of my own efforts."

"They do exist, you think wrong! And it's not okay to reject people who are like that!"

What is she talking about?

Nawagami-san continued to shake her head, her emotions still volatile.

"I can't anymore, I won't! I don't want to study... it's just so boring!"

"Study is often boring, that is a given."

"Then let's stop right now... I need a break... I need peace for my heart and body. What will quench my parched heart isn't rain or tears; it's a single drop of libido."

She uses complicated wording, but it all comes back to libido, doesn't it?

...But that was likely her heart's true plea.

Despite the ridiculous content, I knew I was putting an intense strain on Nawagami-san.

The suffering I was forcing upon her now was pure asceticism, something that not even a D.M. like her could enjoy.

"Imashino-kun... no, Master... Please, I beg you, just forgive me..."

Nawagami-san surrendered completely, begging for clemency.

Isn't that enough? She's tried so hard. She's studied enough that we have a solid excuse for failure, right?

Thinking of the compromise I felt creeping in, I hardened my resolve.

"You use your right hand to write, correct? —Put out your left arm."

"? Yes, I do... Wait, eh!"

I grabbed the item that was still lying on the floor—one cuff of the fanciful handcuffs—and fastened it to her left wrist.

"I know this isn't the intended use, but—"

I then attached the other cuff to my own right wrist.

And just like that, Nawagami-san and I were constrained together by the charming handcuffs.

"W-Why did you suddenly do something like this? ♥"

As expected, her voice didn't convey a desire for me to stop. On the contrary, she sounded utterly thrilled.

Hearing her, I responded with measured pauses.

"No matter how much you cry or shout, you can't escape now. You have no choice but to commit to studying for this last day. —But you are not the only one facing inconvenience. It applies to me, too. Teaching you for this make-up exam on a wonderful, sunny holiday, honestly, can't be done sanely."

"...Y-Yes, you are right."

"I wanted to go to that ramen shop that opened up recently. This week, that is suspended. —However,"

After venting my personal dissatisfaction, I stated the far more important feeling.

"I dislike the idea of you being held back a year even more—I hate it. This isn't for your sake; it's for mine. I am restraining Nawagami Seren for myself. It's a form of self-gratification that goes beyond the literal restraint on this wrist."

"............"

"—You need to brace yourself now. It's only one more day."

I gave my own cuff a decisive pull, which tugged Nawagami-san's entire body with it.

I knew I was being selfish. I also knew that logically, a poor score doesn't necessarily mean she'll be held back. I could also imagine the more sordid, political elements of the Nawagami family: Would they truly let a family member fail out?

But I refused to be lenient. I flaunted the Master's privilege.

While my role as the S-Dom was usually just one she thrust upon me, this time, I was acting out of my own desire.

When I refocused my attention, Nawagami-san was flickering her gaze between my face and the conjoined wrists. Her throat sometimes bobbed as she swallowed, but her expression seemed earnest.

The girl who had been utterly ecstatic before spoke with a cheerful resolve, like she had made a definitive decision.

"Understood. I will try a little harder...!"

Her affirmative was clear, not in her usual dreamy tone.

I was grateful—and since I was forcing her to put up with my selfish desire, I absolutely wanted her to pass.

"By the way, seeing my lingerie-clad state earlier, were you, honestly, thinking 'that's so hot...' or anything like that?"

"I would prefer you not dig that up again, Ojou-sama, but no, not at all."

"There you go again, lying to me. It's okay, I forgive you... Wait, you're not telling me you truly didn't think that, are you? Am I not attractive enough? Ugh, sob..."

"T-That's a lie! I admit I found it somewhat provocative, so please don't cry, Ojou-sama!"

"Hah? So you lied to your Master? Hmm, you have some nerve."

"—Keep your mouth shut until you finish this problem. Understand?"

"Yes, understood! ///"

I'm finally getting used to how to handle Nawagami-san, I thought that Sunday morning.

Following our intense, tear-jerking effort, the day of the make-up exams finally arrived.

Despite the rigorous preparation, the day passed quickly. In the late afternoon, Nawagami-san emerged from Classroom A, the test venue, and immediately spoke when she spotted me waiting in the hallway.

"Huh? Why are you here? What about the Student Council?"

"I couldn't help but be worried. I asked Miran and Yuika to cover for me today."

"...Hmph."

"More importantly, I heard they grade immediately, so how did it go?"

Unlike my cautious demeanor, Nawagami-san replied with a perfectly deadpan expression.

"Absolutely no problem."

"Really?"

"Yes. I got a perfect score on everything, for once."

...........................? ???

I took the answer sheet from her and checked—it was true.

There were no X marks, and everything—Math, English, Chemistry, and all the rest—was a full 100 points.

"There's an inexplicable ecsta—I mean, catharsis—in holding out until the absolute limit before release."

"...Nawagami-san."

"In any case, since I've worked so hard for so many days, I should be able to eat all the ice cream I want today—"

"You didn't cheat, right? Don't tell me you did..."

"......... Gah, are you serious?!"

Nawagami-san marched quickly toward me with the stride of a soldier.

I was backed against the wall, but still, misconduct is unacceptable.

"I was only one of three students taking the make-up exam, and they all left the moment they finished their respective tests! The room was filled with people who were bad at studying. Who exactly do you think I could have cheated from? It's literally impossible for me to have committed a crime! I'm leaving now!"

Is she doing the perp and victim routine simultaneously?

"B-But such a sudden jump in grades is still suspicious."

"...Hah."

Perhaps taking pity on my bewilderment, Nawagami-san suddenly fired a question at me.

"Hey. Did my sister really tell you nothing about me? Not one word about my academic ability?"

"Eh? She told me if you had any allergies, but nothing else."

"Then let me tell you: I finished all my high school-level education ages ago."

"..."

"I haven't told anyone, but I'm pretty smart, you know."

"......... Wait just a moment."

I took out my butler phone from my backpack and made a call.

"—Yes, Imashino-sama. Your observation is correct: Seren-ojousama is, for all intents and purposes, a prodigy."

"She has extensive experience studying abroad in various countries, and is perpetually a top-ranked student in national standardized tests."

"And yet, only failed internal school tests... That must be an intentional outcome."

"Yes, yes, I am happy to have been of service. If you have any other questions, Mononobe will respond in place of Sayuki-sama. Please do not hesitate to contact us."

Ending the call with the elegantly deep-voiced Mononobe-san, I faced Nawagami-san again.

She wasn't angry about the wait; she actually looked subtly proud.

"You see them all the time, right? The characters who hide their true abilities and scheme in the shadows. Well, I'm that kind of perfect person... Hmph. You should keep an eye on me."

"I see, well, yeah, that's incredible..."

"If you're still suspicious, I don't mind beating you thoroughly in the final exams. You must be tired of always being in first place; it would be nice to have a taste of humiliating defeat—Ah. ///"

Abruptly, I changed our physical positions.

I was now the one cornering her against the wall, locking eyes with a cold stare.

"Why didn't you tell me the truth when I approached you with the make-up exam prep? Answer within ten seconds."

"I-I thought that if I kept silent, I could be scolded and word-cursed by you, Master... ♥"

"I see. Then why did you bother pretending to study sincerely? Five seconds."

"It was just too tedious, and I've been staying up too late before the test, and I was sleepy, so ♥"

"Finally. If you felt that way, why did you whine that you were at your limit halfway through the final push? —Now."

"...Well, honestly, I was bored because Master just taught me normally."

"You have something you need to say to me, correct?"

"I-I'm sooorryyyy... ♥♥♥"

Nawagami-san joyfully apologized in a squishy tone while relishing my pressure.

"Creating your own stress due to your pettiness. You, fool—"

"I love how the intensity of your cursing is increasing every day! ♥"

"Don't you dare analyze me!"

"Ah, yes, sorry (sudden return to sobriety)."

I delivered a perfunctory scolding, but I still had a few other things I wanted to say. Give me back the time I spent worrying! That was a complete waste of time! I could come up with any number of complaints.

But.

Swallowing all of it, I felt immense relief. Thank God.

"—...You can properly adjust your performance; you just overdid it this time, correct?"

"E-Yes. I just went overboard this one time, but normally, I would at least avoid failing."

"Understood. Then, starting from the finals, I want you to perform at your usual, normal level."

But, a small part of me wanted to see Nawagami-san's real best effort, just once, I admit.

Adding that faint expectation as a coda, I stepped away and maintained a neutral distance.

Right. My biggest headache is gone. Student Council is also off today. I might be able to prepare a more elaborate dinner than usual. I wonder if Nawagami-san knows this: my former part-time job was at a Spanish restaurant. Hmph. I'll show her what real Paella tastes like!

"...That wasn't the only reason. I didn't just want to be scolded or attacked."

"Eh? No, it's fine; I'm not angry at all. That reason sounds very much like you, Nawagami-san."

"I-I'm not saying this as an excuse!"

For some reason, she brought it up again, and Nawagami-san stepped closer to me.

But the atmosphere was clearly different from before. Instead of the masochistic desire to be humiliated, she was now displaying a very pure shyness.

"If you only isolate the part where you taught me, yes, it was entirely meaningless... but."

I felt a strange nervousness myself, wondering what she was about to say.

"The fact that you were genuinely worried about me, and that you seriously put thought into helping me made me happy. And because of that, I felt it would be such a waste if I didn't just be honest and grateful to you for once..."

"! ...Y-Yeah."

"...And thank you for using the handcuffs, too."

And Nawagami-san gave me the same innocent, adorable smile she had when she first pleaded with me to be her Master. As someone who proudly calls herself a stunning beauty, her smile truly was beautiful.

I felt awkward and turned my gaze away from her.

But I knew one thing: that smile completely erased every minor complaint I had.

"Oh, and speaking of that, have you thought about wanting to use any of the other tools besides the handcuffs...?"

"Not particularly."

"...Well, I suppose so. I can always wait until we're older."

Wait, she's planning this for the long term!