Act One: Your Value
"I got a confession today."
"Huh?"
We were in the middle of lunch, alone together on the roof she had purchased. Ouhouin Eina made the announcement while sharing a homemade bento with me. Her ankle-length hair was tied up, but even the tied portion was incredibly long. It was so long she usually let it drape over her shoulder, and it was my job to take care of it... joking. At least for now.
The bento was a massive multi-tiered box, adjusted so there was enough for both of us. Since I was currently ordered to roleplay as her "friend," I wasn't doing anything special for her.
"...From who?"
"Hasekura-kun from our class. Apparently, he’s liked me since the entrance ceremony. I’ve heard the rumors. You knew too, didn't you, Keiya-kun?"
"I knew. Well, it's not just him. I know almost every guy in school likes you."
Because I'm one of them.
It had been a little over a year since Eina bought me. I have no idea where her bottomless funds come from, but even putting that aside, her beauty is overwhelming and peerless. She acts like a true Ojou-sama—perhaps because she actually is—and even in class, she carries a different aura than the other girls. It’s a mix of elegance and pride.
Countless boys tried to hit on her, fueled by the shallow thought that if they were just "kind," she would eventually open her heart. However, in class, she is cold and maintains a salty attitude toward almost everyone. From my perspective, it’s the truth that she doesn't seem to have a single close friend. There’s a phrase "a flower on a high peak," but Eina is like Mount Everest—it’s not just hard to reach her, you can't even get close enough to look.
Eina's beauty is such that people forgive her for her total lack of charm. I remember it well: when the boys saw her in her school swimsuit during gym, most of them were... compromised. They had to double over, and some guys who were dating other girls at the time got dumped because they were caught staring at Eina so intensely.
Hmm. Maybe I’m the only one sensing 'elegance,' and everyone else is just staring at her chest, waist, and ass.
I remember one guy who got totally shunned for saying every other girl looked like a "straight-up cylinder" compared to Eina. I understood what he meant, but I thought he really needed to work on his lack of delicacy.
"I see. I suppose boys talk about these things among themselves. I’m curious to know what they say about me. Would you tell me?"
"Eh... i-it's nothing special. I only manage to stay in the loop with the guys because everyone can see I’m the closest one to you."
I was bought by Eina for 300 million yen and became her Property.
My parents were happy to let me go, likely deciding the price was fair since it matched the average lifetime earnings of a man. The idea that parents love their "difficult" children more was a complete fantasy. At the time, Eina said she was "willing to pay more," but to a normal person, that amount of money is mouth-watering. I thought human trafficking like this couldn't possibly be legal, but what is reality? The police never showed up, the media had no interest, and the transaction was finalized.
But... I was happy.
I got away from my hated parents—especially my mother—and got to live with the girl I loved. While life wasn't exactly what I imagined, I’ve mostly adapted. Since we attend the same public high school, I was ordered to play the role of "friend." As long as she calls me "Keiya-kun," I have to keep up the act.
"If it’s nothing special, there’s no harm in telling me, right? Will you let me hear it?"
"......T-Things like how big your chest is. Or how they want to grab your waist and ××××××... and flipping up your skirt to see your—Stop it! This is embarrassing! Everyone looks at you that way! That’s it! I don't want to say any more!"
"Ufufu. Keiya-kun is blushing. You haven't changed at all. So, they look at me like that? I wonder if you do, too."
She grabbed my hand, forcing our fingers to interlock. Her hair, which smelled impossibly good, came closer until I could feel her breath. I didn't need a mirror to know my face was bright red. I was hot. Not because it was summer, but because Eina was looking at me.
"N... no comment."
"No. If you don't answer properly, I’ll have to punish you later. If you tell me now, I’ll keep the punishment light."
"Wait, so I’m getting punished no matter what?!"
"It’s your fault for not answering. The longer you take, the harsher the punishment gets..."
"I love you! I love you! I totally look at you that way! Enough! That’s it! No more! I don't want to say it! You’re mean!"
"Mean..."
Eina is hopelessly blunt, but having started as her friend, I can see the signs. For instance, right now, her mouth hasn't moved an inch, but her eyes are sparkling with amusement. If there were a 'mood meter' in this world, this would be proof I’d triggered a critical response.
"Yes, perhaps I am mean. It’s just because you’re so cute, Keiya-kun. My apologies. Shall we finish our bento? It loses its Value once it gets cold."
I thought there was something wrong with her mental state for going back to lunch like nothing happened, but the food was so good I stopped caring—no, that’s not right.
"Are you... going to accept the confession?"
"Hasekura-kun’s Value is... about 30,000 yen. It’s not a fair trade. It would be a different story if he could provide the deficit."
Everything about why Ouhouin Eina is bad at socializing is packed into that one sentence. To put it simply, she is a "Value-Supremacist." Having absolute confidence in her own eye for appraisal, she finds Value in all things under the sun. When she wants something, she attempts to purchase it at its current price. This rule mostly applies to things without a set price; she wouldn't pay 10,000 yen for a 200 yen item in a shop.
For example, the 300 million she paid for me was the price she saw in me at the time. Even after being purchased, I can't let my guard down; if I act in a way that displeases her, my Value drops. And she only treats her Property according to their price. You can think of it like a stock—the Value goes up and down. The current Value of everything she owns is recorded in a notebook in her bedroom. No one but me is allowed to see it, and even I am not allowed to see my own Value.
30,000 yen is a pretty low Value, but that’s the general market rate for our classmates, so it’s nothing to be depressed about. You see now why she’s so cold? Because from her perspective, their Value is low, so she treats them accordingly.
"By the way... how much for 'dating fees' or 'lover rights'?"
"One billion."
"......So even if the whole school combined their money, it would be impossible. Then you’re turning him down... thank god."
"Hmm?"
"Ah, no. Based on how the conversation is going, he’s waiting for you, right? Should I go? It seems like a hassle for you to go all the way there just to dump a 30,000-yen guy."
"......I suppose. I was going to leave it to someone else, but if you’re going that far, I’ll leave it to you. Don't say anything unnecessary. Just tell him I gave a negative response to the confession. I’ll be waiting in the car, so don't make me wait too long. I hate being lonely."
We resumed lunch. Since we were eating together, the small talk ended quickly. Finishing every grain of rice is common courtesy to the person who made it. Since it was incredibly delicious, there was no reason to leave anything behind.
"Eina. Don't say you're lonely. I... I'm by your side. You bought me... so I'll be by your side forever."
"Keiya-kun. You say such wonderful things. I’m so, so happy. What should I do if someone else wants to buy you? There are probably many, so I’ll have to make you even more expensive."
Without making any specific promises, we linked our pinky fingers together.
Ever since we were kids, she always loved doing this with me.
"Hah? I called for Eina, so why the hell are you here?"
"It can't be helped, I’m just the messenger. Let me ask you this: if she asked you for a favor, would you say no?"
"No, I wouldn't."
"Exactly."
The logic that you’ll do a favor for someone you have feelings for is a solid argument to use on a guy. If he’s in love, he understands the feeling; even if he weren't, the fact that so many others are means it's an easy concept to grasp.
Faced with this flawless theory, Mutsuya Hasekura choked on his words and groaned. He had nothing to say back. If he was a man with the guts to actually confess, I believed he’d understand the desire to earn even a little bit of favor, just as I would.
"—But why you, specifically... You’ve got it made, don't you? You’re her 'best friend.' You’re the only one allowed on the rooftop she bought."
"......I don't think it's really something to be happy about... ahaha."
Usually, if a boy and girl are that close, people assume they’re dating, but none of the guys or girls ever teased me about it. The reason was simple: we didn't look like we were dating. Aside from the blunt Eina, they figured if I were actually dating her, I’d be much more excited.
"So, about the answer... you should know since I’m the one here. It’s a polite 'no'."
"I know! Dammit, what’s wrong with me? You won't find another guy with this much athletic talent and good looks."
I wanted to tell him not to say that about himself, but even as a guy, I had to admit Hasekura was pretty handsome. If a truly good-looking guy acts humble, it just comes off as sarcastic, so it was almost better that he was honest about it.
It was also a fact that as long as he wasn't aiming for Eina, Hasekura was quite popular. Since starting school, I’d seen him get called out for confessions several times. Yet, he kept turning them down like a certain Master I know. He was single-mindedly focused on winning Eina over, and no other girl even registered in his eyes. I think his confidence was backed by the number of confessions he’d racked up.
"I’ve delivered the message, so I’m going. See ya."
"Hey, wait, Sagiri. How much did you pay?"
I was told not to say anything unnecessary, but I stopped in my tracks. With a sigh, I turned around to see Hasekura approaching with a 100,000-yen bill in his hand.
"Wait, what? I don't need it. Forget the bribes."
"No, no, no. Look, Eina always brings up money, right? Like last year at the cultural festival, when she offered 400,000 to handle all the booth prep. You’re paying a 'friendship fee' to be with her, aren't you? There’s no other way a guy like you—with worse sports skills and looks than me—could be friends with her! How much? Tell me."
He put his arm around my shoulder. Does Hasekura think we’re best friends? He was grinning as he flashed the cash. 100,000 yen is a lot of money. Unless you’re incredibly rich, anyone would normally be happy to take it as a tip.
"......"
I... felt complicated.
Looking at the bills reminded me of that day. The image of Eina arriving with 300 million yen stuffed into an attache case, and the look on my mother’s face as she was blinded by the money. She signed the contract without a moment’s hesitation, and in exchange for me, she hugged that attache case as if she’d finally recovered her own child—
'Shall we go?'
Eina had taken my hand and led me out of the house.
"...Wait. I don't need the money. I’m not hurting for cash. But in exchange, there’s something I want to know..."
"Oh? If you’re gonna work hard to set me up with Eina, I’ll answer anything!"
"If you... were to put a price on yourself, how much do you think you’re worth?"
"......Huh?"
"You understand Eina's values a little bit, right? It’s like a self-promotion thing. I’ll go tell her how amazing you are, but first, tell me your price and the reason why."
"Oh, is that it! Why didn't you say so sooner~? My price, huh..."
Self-promotion is something I hate. If someone asked me what was so great about myself, I couldn't think of a thing. Everything Hasekura said was true; I didn't have any talents or skills that would grab someone's interest. I wasn't particularly good at anything, nor was I so bad that people would stare in disbelief. If the nail doesn't stick out, how can you hit it?
"Hmm. Man, this is a tough one!"
"—I don't want to stand around here for hours, so hurry up. There are too many mosquitoes here, I hate it."
It was my own fault for waiting, but he was the one being picky. Any self-promotion would do, and if he was going to struggle this much, he could just think about it and tell me later. To be honest, I just wanted to go home. Eina was waiting.
"So tough~!"
"Hey, I said the mosquitoes are out."
"Wait, wait. Don't rush me. My self-promotion. It’s that, right? Like back when we started high school. Like that..."
"If it’s that hard, why don't you write it on a resume and bring it to me? You’re getting bitten too, you know. Don't blame me later if you're itchy."
"Nah, I didn't mean to keep you waiting. Just... Ah, yeah. Okay, let’s go with this."
The answer to the question was so simple that I honestly didn't feel like the wait had been worth it. Leaving Hasekura's voice behind me, I practically sprinted out of the school gates and down the hill. I confirmed a black car parked on the shoulder of the road. The curtains were drawn in the back, physically blocking any view of who was inside. After checking to make sure no one was watching, I climbed in. Eina, who had been reading a book in a foreign language, closed it on her lap and murmured:
"You're two and a half minutes later than expected."
"S-Sorry."
The door closed automatically and locked. Since the rear doors can't be opened manually from the inside, this place is essentially a private cell.
"What were you doing? I told you not to have any pointless conversations."
"N-No, it wasn't really pointless..."
"Kei.Ya."
"Ah, yes! I get it! I’ll tell you everything!"
Since she dropped the "-kun," the "friend" roleplay was over. Inside this car, Eina is the Master and I’m... a pet? A servant? A subordinate? I’m not really sure, but since she bought me, I have to follow her orders. I didn't want my Value to drop, and I’d feel bad for the girl who bought me.
"At first, I was going to come straight back, but Hasekura couldn't let it go... He asked me how much money it would take to become your friend... He even offered me 100,000 yen as a tip."
"Did you take it?"
"Eh?"
"I asked if you took the 100,000 yen. Well? Were you blinded by the money?"
"No, no way! I... Eina is enough for me."
Hearing that, Eina's eyes twitched, and she turned to look out the opposite window.
"I see. Then that’s fine. Please continue."
"It seems like he thinks I’m paying a 'friendship fee' just to talk to you. I-It’s stupid, right? I don't have that kind of money. But he was going to keep pestering me if I just kept refusing, so I asked him his price. What he’d value himself at."
"I thought 30,000 yen was appropriate."
"He said his current self is worth 50 million."
"..................."
"..................."
An awkward silence dominated the car. I could hear the driver, who must have been listening, take a breath as if he couldn't stand the quiet.
"......S-So, the reason for that was like... he has a ton of talent and is going to be a pro soccer player. He said he’ll definitely be worth billions in the future, so 50 million for now... It was some calculation method I didn't really get."
"Oh, it's not a completely foolish story. Estimating your own future Value is a wonderful thing. However... 50 million. I wonder if he wants me to buy him for 50 million yen."
"H-He didn't say that, though."
"......Could you start the car?"
With a word from the Master, the car began to move toward home. Since I am forbidden from looking at the scenery from the back seat, I don't actually know the route we take to get back. I just know it takes quite a while.
"Differences in perspective happen often, but such a massive gap is strange. I wonder if Hasekura-kun has some charm I’m unaware of."
"...Wait, did you change your mind?"
"50 million. I did think I might buy him. It’s true that I’ve felt bad about making the servants clean the empty rooms in the manor. So... I suppose I could assign him one of those rooms. Keiya, you don't have to do anything. I’ll send someone for him later."
"You’re... more into this than I thought."
For some reason, I didn't find it very amusing.
As I huddled at the edge of the seat, Eina called out to me, and as the car swayed, I ended up getting a lap pillow. I had no right to refuse. I looked up at her, but my view was blocked by her chest, which was a stroke of luck since she couldn't see my face.
"Trial periods aren't limited to just him. Every servant I’ve bought had one, and if they’re still working here, it’s because they made me want them. I still can't believe he’s worth 50 million, but assumptions are bad."
...I wanted Eina to be disappointed in him.
Having spent a year with her, I knew. The trial period is the time when the target has to be the most cautious. If she doesn't own someone, she just treats them according to their temporary Value, but once they become her Property, everything changes.
"A trial period. Did I have one too...?"
Eina placed her hand on my head as if to stroke it, and put her other hand over her heart.
"You’re curious, aren't you? But that’s a period you never needed. Fufu, please don't be so anxious. I’ve never thought of you as Valueless. I love you, Keiya. Stay by my side... forever."
"U-Um. How long am I going to be getting a lap pillow...?"
"Do you hate it?"
"I don't... hate it. B-But this is different from when we do it at home! It’s... kind of embarrassing."
"No one is watching."
As I said before, the curtains were drawn in the back, so no one could see in from the outside. As for the front, there was a curtain between the driver's seat and the back, so nothing could be seen from there either. You’d think the loss of the rearview mirror would be fatal, but it was fine because there were external cameras for checking behind the car. This wasn't my first time in this car, so I knew at least that much.
"Even if no one is watching, I’m still embarrassed! I... I’d like to stop if possible..."
"We’re staying like this until we get home. It’s fine, isn't it? No one is watching. You’re mine, but it’s okay to bite the hand that feeds you once in a while."
Saying that, Eina reached under her chest and intentionally shook her breasts. I couldn't see the look on her face because her large chest blocked my view. I hoped she didn't hear the sound of me swallowing hard, but I could hear her giggling happily from above.
"I’m looking forward to seeing when you’ll finally bite my hand."
"I-I won't do that. I won't!"
"Your mouth says that, but your body seems honest. We’ve been together for years, so I can tell. Fufu..."
I was getting a lap pillow from the girl I loved.
For most people, this is a dream-like situation. And for someone who isn't popular, it’s the definition of a dream. To put it bluntly, I’m not popular. I’ve grown up without any special hobbies, so even the chance encounter of meeting someone with shared interests never happened.
Still, Eina is the only one who stays by my side.
So it’s okay. If we’re talking about dreams, the fact that I was bought by the girl I love is a dream. But this is reality. Since that day, my parents haven't once come to ask for me back, and I’ve spent every day with her since I was bought. I get to see the face of the girl I love up close all the time. Eina is cute. She’s beautiful. I’m truly happy.
...I really have no complaints about being bought.
It’s probably not surprising. Since being bought, my standard of living has improved significantly, and I don't have to be afraid of my mother anymore.
The conversation died down, and we spent some time being swayed by the car until it gradually slowed and came to a stop. Responding to the driver's voice saying "We have arrived," Eina helped me sit up.
"Let’s go, Keiya."
The door was opened by a button on the driver's side. As it opened, I stepped out first and took Eina’s hand to help her out of the car. Her fingers rested on mine, then gripped them tightly the moment her feet touched the ground.
Surrounded by forest, the classic Western-style mansion towering over the vast, cleared land was the home where Eina and I lived.
The car had long since passed the iron gates and stopped in the yard. We were already inside the grounds. If we wanted to be lazy, we could have parked closer, but Eina has said that ever since she bought me, she enjoys this short walk more than anything. In front of the fountain at the entrance stood a familiar apron-dress and ponytail. At school, some girls hiked up their skirts to be fashionable, but almost every woman living here was modest in a long skirt, which I still haven't gotten used to.
Strictly speaking, it’s less of a workplace and more of a gathering of those who were bought, so the classical maid outfits are entirely Eina's hobby.
"—! Eina-sama. Welcome home."
One of the maids, Shion Ikuba, was in the middle of sweeping with a bamboo broom, but upon seeing her Master, she stopped her work and gave a respectful bow. She pinched the hem of her skirt—a gesture Eina taught me was called a "curtsey."
"I’m back, Shion. I’m sorry to ask something so obvious all of a sudden, but is the cleaning of the empty rooms finished?"
"Yes. Every room has been completed without delay. Do you have a request?"
"I might be buying someone, so I want to give him a room. His asking price is 50 million, so... a room on the edge is fine. Somewhere he won't get in everyone's way. Let Yatsuka know once it’s decided. I’ll explain the details to her myself later."
"Yes. Understood."
After finishing the picture-perfect exchange between Master and maid, we headed inside the mansion. As we passed, Shion glanced at me instead of a greeting.
My position and the maids' are equal; it’s natural since we were all bought. However, the Value at the time of purchase and our current Value are different. There is no question that I receive the best treatment of anyone in this house, and as long as I’m being led around by the Master, Eina, any maid who stops to talk to me risks lowering her own Value. That’s why I was ignored.
Dozens of maids work—or rather, were purchased—here, and the reaction is the same for most of them. When I’m being led around by Eina, I’m a bomb, a presence that must not be touched. Everyone knows it is almost certain to ruin the Master’s mood.
Entering the mansion, things seemed quite busy given it was nearing evening. The hallway was lined with plush carpets and chandeliers that looked so expensive a commoner shouldn't even look at them, but I was only shocked for the first few days. After a year, I’ve finally gotten used to it.
"Welcome home, Eina-sama."
The one who came to greet us was Yatsuka Tsurugi, who is in charge of Eina's personal care. Standing over 180cm tall, her long dress looked even more striking. With an inseam approaching 90cm, her legs were something many girls would envy—though since she always wears long dresses, we don't often get to see their beauty. Her hair is naturally blonde, which combined with her height makes her very conspicuous.
"I’m back, Yatsuka. It’s sudden, but I’ve decided to try buying one more person, so could you go pick him up? Keiya, what club was he in?"
"S-Soccer club... but I’m sorry, I don't know what time practice ends. I think it’ll be over by seven, though."
"Don't worry about it, he can wait. Yatsuka, as soon as you confirm his club activities are over, bring him to this mansion. You can ask Shion about the room."
"......If I may be so bold as to ask, is that person truly worth that much Value?"
"That’s what I’m going to find out. He might have some Value I’m unaware of, so don't worry about the details. His treatment starts at 50 million; I’ll let you know if that changes."
"Understood."
"In truth, Keiya is the only man I need. What do you think?"
"......Keiya-sama often helps us with our work when he isn't attending to you, Eina-sama. I believe all the servants are in agreement with your thoughts."
"Yes, exactly. That would be for the best. The chef was unavoidable... fufu, fine. Go now. I have to give Keiya his punishment."
With a final bow, Yatsuka hurried out of the mansion. We are technically equals, but I felt sorry for her having to be so respectful in front of the Master. I’m really not that big of a deal.
"—Wait, punishment? I thought that was the lap pillow?"
"It wasn't. Let’s go to the room."
We climbed the grand staircase and walked straight to her private room without looking back. It felt like Eina was walking faster than usual. It was almost as if she was looking forward to what was about to happen.
The room was decorated with the glittering ornaments you’d expect from someone wealthy. It was the first time I’d ever looked at wallpaper and thought it looked expensive. The candelabra-style electric lights on the walls made my heart race the first time I saw them. The bed had been replaced with a canopied double bed the day I was bought. There was no need to ask who slept in it.
"Now then."
She pressed a button on the side of a shelf, and the door locked. Letting go of my hand, she approached the back wardrobe and pulled out a change of clothes. Naturally, my clothes were in there too—actually, she pulled out both.
"I have to give you your punishment. Keiya. Shall we change together?"
"......Huh?! E-Eh! No way, it's embarrassing! Why do I have to do that?!"
"A punishment is a punishment. To make sure you don't misunderstand: 'changing together' doesn't mean we change separately. We’re going to undress each other, and then dress each other. No closing your eyes."
"T-That’s... I said it’s embarrassing! I’ll take any other punishment, so please, give me a break...!"
"No one is watching, so why are you embarrassed?"
"Because you're watching!"
"And I’m being watched by you. It’s mutual, so it’s fine. Keiya."
"..................."
"You’re the only one allowed to touch my body. Please."
"I... I get it........................"
I knew all too well that Eina wouldn't back down. Giving up, I approached the wardrobe, and she moved a partition to further divide the room. Eina stood in front of me, moving her body to make her breasts sway so my attention wouldn't wander. She held out her arms, waiting for me to start on her uniform.
"............Can you take back the 'no closing your eyes' part...?"
"No. I want to see your body, too."
"............"
I decided it was best to give up any useless resistance and just obey. A mere Property shouldn't have an ego. That was the only way I could keep my feelings in check. My fingertips brushed against her skin, which was as smooth as silk, and I reacted like a blushing virgin.
"Good job. What’s wrong? Why are you huddling like that? Like a girl who’s about to be stripped bare."
"I... I told you it was embarrassing...!"
I sat on the bed, hugging myself over my clothes. I tried not to listen to the voice in my head saying this was a reward rather than a punishment. I didn't hear it. I definitely didn't. The fact was, I was embarrassed. My body felt hot, as if she were licking me with her eyes. 'Burning' was too mild; I felt like I was melting.
"...I want you to keep this a secret, but Keiya is at his cutest when he’s embarrassed."
"................Give me a break."
As someone who was bought, I have no right to privacy. Eina, who had changed from her uniform into an indigo casual dress, sat next to me in a great mood despite her usual lack of expression. She took my hand and tilted her head as she spoke.
"That’s enough for the punishment. Shall we spend some time alone?"
"Hey. Are you really going to buy Hasekura? I think you should reconsider."
"Since you’re going that far, I assume there’s a reason? Does Hasekura-kun have some major flaw?"
"It’s not like that............ Let me see the Value Note."
"......Alright."
From the drawer next to the bed, she pulled out a lavishly bound book commonly known as the Value Note. That’s just what I call it, but it contains the Value of every person—or rather, every Property—currently living in the mansion. Only Eina and I can view it. I said earlier that I couldn't see my own Value, and the reason is simple: it’s recorded in a separate, locked volume at the back of the drawer.
"Whose Value do you want to know?"
"It’s not any one person specifically."
For example, Shion's Value at the time of purchase was 10 million yen. While it fluctuates, her current Value is 130 million. Yatsuka’s starting Value was 50 million, and she’s now worth 290 million. Shion is in the upper tier for housemaids, and Yatsuka is likely classified as a mix of lady’s maid and housekeeper. Regardless, they are high-ranking compared to others.
Now let’s look at someone with lower Value. How about the maids working in the laundry building? In the history of the maid profession, they’d spend almost their entire lives there, but Eina hates not having them under her eye, so she makes them sleep in the mansion. The one with the lowest Value among them is... Kagura Hairaku. Her Value when she was bought was 2 million yen. Currently, she’s worth 9 million.
After living in this mansion for a year, I can say that everyone working here is desperate to keep their Value from dropping. Beyond that, they’re satisfied with the treatment Eina gives them. I made it sound like they were lowly laborers, but even a person like that was bought for 2 million yen. They are definitely Property, but she doesn't restrict their freedom entirely. They can go shopping within the limits of their Value. For Kagura, that means as long as she doesn't exceed 9 million yen in a year, she can spend as much as she wants.
"50 million for Hasekura... that guy isn't worth that much. There’s no way he’s worth the same as Yatsuka-san was when you bought her. Don't you realize that?"
"I suppose. I went out and bought Yatsuka because I wanted her, but Hasekura-kun is different. Like I told Yatsuka earlier, I called him here to find out. I’ll know soon enough if he has Value."
Eina let go of my hand, stretched her legs out in front of me, and beckoned with her fingers.
"Will you massage them for me?"
"Yes, yes."
I said Yatsuka was in charge of her personal care, but in reality, almost all of that work is passed on to me. As I gripped her smooth, soft soles and applied pressure, a small "Mnh..." escaped her.
"What about work? Like me, everyone you’ve bought is given some kind of job, right? Was the cheapest one a million yen? Are you going to give him a job too?"
"The amount that girl suggested herself was one million, so I just respected her wishes. As for a job Hasekura-kun could do..."
"And unlike me, you haven't gotten his family's permission, have you? What if they come to complain?"
"Complain?"
After finishing her soles, I gradually moved my fingers up her legs. Her calves are my favorite spot because that’s where Eina makes the most satisfied sounds.
"Complaining to me is misplaced. After all, that was the Value he suggested for himself. If they want him back, they just have to buy him back from me. If it’s right away, I’ll settle for exactly 50 million. Mnh...... Keiya’s hands... feel so good......"
I’ve already accepted that I’m going to react to her seductive voice. I’m a normal boy, and to me, Ouhouin Eina is the girl I love. When she says things like that... of course I’m going to get excited.
"Won't you get in trouble for a crime?"
"Keiya. Laws are made by the state, so crimes committed by the state are obviously exempt. Besides, I am paying money appropriate to the Value. Therefore, nothing I do can be punished. I believe it’s commonly referred to as the 'privileged class'."
"............"
Sometimes, Eina is a little scary.
Of course, usually she’s just a slightly selfish girl.
"I wonder if I should let Yatsuka think of a job for him. I can't imagine someone who said their Value was 50 million wouldn't be able to do anything."
"I don't think he can do anything... he’ll probably just end up being a plaything like me."
If she wanted a soccer player, she should just buy a pro player or a team; I don't think she gains anything by buying Hasekura. From a commoner’s perspective, it feels like she’s just wasting money, but I guess rich people don't care. Where exactly do those bottomless funds come from...?
"Thank you. That’s enough for the massage."
"Ah, yes."
She switched from stretching her legs out to sitting with her legs tucked under her and took my hands again. This time, it wasn't just one hand, but both. We interlaced our fingers, hands entwining as if they were in love. Eina’s lips came close to my ear as she whispered:
"I don't remember buying Keiya as a plaything. I bought you as the person I love."
"The... person you love...?"
"Yes. Thank you always, Keiya. Because you’re by my side, because you talk to me, because you look at me as a member of the opposite sex, because you protect me... I am always happy. I love you. I love you so much, my Keiya."
"Eh, ah, a-ha..."
The sudden, fervent confession makes me blush for an entirely different reason. My mouth and throat tremble, and as I struggle to find my voice, Eina’s face returns to a position directly in front of mine.
"Let me kiss you?"
"Ah, y-yes... eh... ah..."
My body spasms as if it's being puppeteered. My head bobs in an unnatural, jerky nod, signaling my desire. It isn't an act of will. I’m so embarrassed I want to refuse, but my body craves her. Her lips draw closer—and then overlap with mine.
Lick. Chu. Slurp.
It is a deep, heavy exploration of tongues, far beyond what one would expect from a typical student romance. My body accepts her tongue as she thrusts it in without hesitation. Eina catches my physiological arousal—my heat and my hardness—with her own body. Rather than pulling away, she sinks her voluptuous chest into me, as if encouraging it.
—Ah, God, this is so embarrassing.
This is a secret shared only between the two of us, performed only within the confines of her private room.
When she finally pulls back, Eina is flushed crimson all the way to her ears. She looks away, seemingly mortified.
"......I'm so embarrassed, I feel like I'm losing my mind. What an immodest woman I am."
"I-It’s okay. I love that part of you, too."
I offer these words to comfort her as she falls into self-loathing. She turns her gaze back to me—and her lips curl into a smile. It’s the same way she’s smiled since we were children. The smile I love most in all the world.
"Really? I’m so happy. You’re the only one who would say that to me. Fufu. Fufufufufu."
◇
It’s perfectly reasonable to argue that one shouldn't assign work to a normal high schooler, but the moment she bought him, he became Eina’s property. What she chooses to do with him is her business. Everything is as the Master commands.
For the sake of their history as classmates, Eina decided to explain the situation to Hasekura herself. This granted me a temporary release from her side, giving me some free time. She hadn't said anything specifically, but since the conversation seemed like it would get complicated, I figured I’d hide away as soon as the car returned.
"Keiya-san. Got a moment?"
"Hm...... Shion."
Waiting for me at the bottom of the stairs was Shion, who had been cleaning by the fountain earlier. Seeing the vacuum in her hand, it looked like she had been assigned to clean again.
"What's up?"
"Who is this person she’s buying? It’s been a while since Eina-sama bought someone new. And for 50 million yen, no less..."
"Ah, that. He’s a classmate of ours. Explaining the whole thing is a headache, so to put it simply: he confessed, got dumped, but wouldn't give up and kept pushing his own appeal until she gave him a 'one-time chance.'"
"Eh? She's buying that?"
"I told her she shouldn't, but..."
We both knew all too well that once she says "I'll see for myself once I've bought them," there's no stopping her. We both sighed at the same time, a coincidence that was strangely funny enough to make us share a weak laugh.
"Well, I guess it can't be helped. It's his own fault. Anyone who says those things to Eina-sama is the problem. Yeah, definitely."
"I’m the one who made him say it, though..."
"Eh?"
"No! I didn't mean it that way! I just wanted her to be appalled that he was asking for the same amount she paid for Yatsuka-san. I never expected it to turn out like this... but it’s too late now. I’ll just pray he manages to handle things. I’m free now, so is there anyone who needs help?"
"Yes, yes! I'm in trouble, Sagiri-kun!"
Ayaka Akabane, one of the servants, cut into the conversation and grabbed my hand. Her voice, which carried exceptionally well through the mansion, was her trademark. Classified as a kitchen maid, she spent most of her time in the kitchen, providing us with daily meals alongside the chef. Since she’s the one who prepares the bentos, the meal I ate on the roof today was an Ayaka Special.
"The kitchen is always in trouble, Ayaka-san. I don't think there's ever a situation where you suddenly need me specifically."
"No, no, that's not true! The girls in the kitchen are always looking forward to you coming by! After all, when you help out, the work gets done faster and we can actually rest!"
"......Is it okay with you, Shion?"
My gaze was drawn to her swaying ponytail. She gave a small nod and pushed me by the back.
"I'm almost finished here, so it's fine. Why don't you head to the kitchen?"
"Alright. I'll go then."
"Yay~! Strike while the iron is hot, and let evil perish! I’m taking Sagiri-kun into custody now!"
Being by Eina’s side, and helping the maids when I’m not. Some days are busy, but I love this life. No one living here has a single complaint. As long as a solution falls within the range of their Value, any dissatisfaction is erased.
I hoped Hasekura could adapt too, but I wondered if he’d succeed. If his Value is appraised as low, his treatment will worsen. If it only stopped at that, it would be fine, but......
◇
Hasekura arrived at the mansion exactly at dinner time.
"Wow, you really saved us~! Hauling meals to the laundry building is such heavy lifting; it’s a nightmare when Sagiri-kun isn't around!"
"I know it’s hard. But it’s strange; compared to a year ago, it feels like everyone is actually having fun."
"Well, that’s because... Sagiri-kun. Do you have aaaaa little time?"
Ayaka-san gestured for me to come closer, her long sleeves swaying like a beckoning cat. She led me to the back entrance of the kitchen with a squinty-eyed giggle.
"Eina-sama can't hear this, so it’s just between us, okay? Our little secret. As you know, there are almost no men here. Currently, as far as I know, it’s just the chef and you. The chef is quite old, but Sagiri-kun is still so young! That’s why everyone is happy... You notice even the smallest changes in us, so it gives us a sense of fulfillment? Something like that? Nufu-fu. You’re quite the smooth talker, aren't you? Though I suppose that’s why Eina-sama bought you in the first place!"
I couldn't quite keep up with Ayaka-san’s teasing as she covered her mouth with her sleeve. She calls me "young," but there are middle schoolers—even elementary schoolers—working as kitchen hands. Ayaka-san herself was apparently a college student before she was bought. Everyone except the chef is young.
"Yes, yes. Ignorance is bliss, and silence is a man's greatest virtue. Don't overthink it; the people in this mansion just happen to like you, Sagiri-kun! Didn't you get that letter from the laundry girl the other day?"
"A-Ah, yeah. That incredibly long letter of thanks. I got it. I didn't really understand what she was trying to say, but if I’m being useful, that’s what matters. Also, today's bento was delicious. Thank you for the meal."
"Oh my! It was nothing... You’re actually the only one who says that every time, Sagiri-kun. I haven't started prep yet, but tomorrow, make sure you eat your fill!"
As Ayaka-san beamed with joy, I checked the time out of habit. I’d stayed helping longer than I thought.
Being late for dinner is unforgivable. Normally, Eina would be scolding me, but things were a little different this time. The recklessly "bought-on-trial" Hasekura had arrived. I had been in the back, so I didn't run into him, but I’d heard his boisterous voice while moving between the laundry and the kitchen.
"By the way, Ayaka-san. Aren't you serving dinner? I saw the carts sitting there."
Ayaka tilted her head awkwardly and led me into the kitchen. Ignoring the other servants who were enjoying some small talk after finishing their tasks, she peered into the hallway, checking the timing.
"...Hmm. I wonder where Yatsuka-san is...? I can't move the carts without orders from her. My intuition says we had a guest earlier, so maybe Eina-sama is busy dealing with that...?"
"Ah."
That’s right, the details hadn't been shared with Ayaka-san in the kitchen. Even if Shion had leaked something to the other housemaids, there was no reason to tell people in a different department.
—I wonder if he’s signing the contract right now.
Even Hasekura wouldn't think this was a joke. Actual money would be prepared, and he should realize he’s being bought. Based on general literacy, I hoped he’d read the contract properly. I had been sold through my mother, so I had no choice, but if you don't read it carefully, it’s a disaster.
I hereby transfer all human rights guaranteed to me by birth to Ouhouin Eina.
This contract takes precedence over any and all laws.
To terminate this contract, one must pay the original purchase price or an amount determined by Eina.
Those are the most important parts that need to be read.
The servants here weren't tricked; they were all people bought by Eina after confirming the contract for themselves. Ayaka-san looks like she’s enjoying herself, but she’s here with a certain level of resolve. Please, just look it over like you're in class... and if you notice how insane it is, don't sign.
This time the circumstances were special. Since Hasekura was the one who prompted the purchase, Eina would surely stop if he showed any hesitation.
"Whoa, seriously?! I'll do it, I'll do it! You're giving me this much money?!"
An incredibly loud, stupid voice rang out, giving me a very bad feeling.
"So that's how it was! Then Keiya was bought too! It makes sense. If a slow, plain guy like him didn't have a contract like this instead of a 'friendship fee,' there’s no way he could stay by her side!"
I didn't even feel like arguing. I know perfectly well I have no special qualities. I help the maids frequently, so I think I at least have some stamina, though.
"What an unpleasant person. To loudly and crudely insult Sagiri-kun like that."
"Now, now. He's a classmate, so please overlook it."
"Classmate or not, once you're bought by Eina-sama, you're the same Property, Sagiri-kun. However, I’m sorry to say this so soon, but I’ve already developed a dislike for him. Yo-yo-yo-yo... yo-yo-yo-yo..."
"I agree!"
"Making fun of Keiya-san like that..."
Behind me, the voices of the other maids rose in a chorus of bad impressions of Hasekura. It seemed... he had failed the first impression.
"How much is that guy worth?! Tell me, Eina! I actually let you buy me, you know? Is he worth 100,000? 10,000? Must be something like that, ahahaha!"
Ah, this was it.
His reckless shouting made it clear. He hadn't read the contract properly. He’d looked at it, but he hadn't seen it. In this day and age, where people who can't even comprehend written text are increasing and being able to read words as they are is called a "special ability," Hasekura was exactly the kind of person who lacked that ability.
He had no understanding of what it meant to surrender all of his human rights. It was equivalent to a contract of total isolation from the world. He probably thought it was just some variation or sub-species of a "friendship fee." Otherwise, he wouldn't be saying those things. There’s no way Eina would make a "cheap" purchase. No doubt in Hasekura's mind, that low price was only if I had begged her to buy me—in other words, from his perspective, I had sold myself in the same way he did. And because Eina saw no Value in me, she bought me for cheap. He must have a story in his head where I agreed to be bought for pennies just so I could stay with the girl I love.
"Ah—...... what has he done."
As I peered through the gap past Ayaka-san, Yatsuka-san, who had been sitting with us, looked flustered. She pulled out her radio and began giving orders from behind the stairs. Almost instantly, all the maids responded, checking the radios at their waists.
"Move dinner to the dining room. The guest... no, the newly acquired Property, Mutsuya Hasekura, will be moved to a separate room."
"Alright! Everyone, let's get moving. Ah, Sagiri-kun, just pretend you didn't see anything and head to the dining room... Everyone has moved now."
Like I can forget it that easily, I thought as I headed to the dining room, passing Hasekura's group. At the far end of the long table covered in a white cloth sat the master of the house, Eina. She was as expressionless as ever, making it hard to tell what she was thinking, but I could hear a split-second grind of her teeth, telling me she was in a very bad mood.
"Ah. Keiya. Would you sit by my side?"
"...That's rare. We usually sit opposite each other."
"I’m having Yatsuka sit opposite us. Along with the girls of high Value, for as many chairs as we have. I found myself wanting their opinions. I could decide everything myself, but... well, they’ll be the ones interacting with Hasekura-kun the most."
This mansion has a breakfast room and a dinner room, and it’s routine for Eina and me to enjoy our meals alone in each. We just ask a maid if we want seconds; there are no lectures on manners or anything like that. No one uses those two rooms except for us, though occasionally she wants to eat in her own room. When that happens, the maids use the dining room. Everything has its exceptions.
But this... even I hadn't seen this before.
The dining table looked like a buffet, something I’d never seen. Despite being servants, the food was lavish because they had that much Value. In order of Value closest to Eina:
Sagiri Keiya: 300 Million yen → ??? yen
Yatsuka Tsurugi: 50 Million yen → 290 Million yen
Ayaka Akabane: 80 Million yen → 170 Million yen
Shion Ikuba: 10 Million yen → 130 Million yen
Haru Kokone: 30 Million yen → 100 Million yen
Yurie Nakasato: 9,990,000 yen → 99,990,000 yen
Hijiri Ikuba: 7,000,000 yen → 93,000,000 yen
That was the lineup.
They weren't gathered by job type, but literally because they were the ones with high Value. As I said, this is more of a hobby for Eina than a business. While they have specific roles, they cooperate across boundaries if they’re short-handed. Except for Yurie-san, they’re all essentially housemaids.
"Eina-sama. The reason you’ve called us to dine with Keiya-san is..."
"Yes. As of today, Mutsuya Hasekura-kun will be living here. On a trial basis for 50 million yen. It wasn't my appraisal; it was the amount he suggested himself. I couldn't believe he had that much Value, and it was the same when he signed the contract. Doubts about his self-appraised Value have already arisen, and I’d like to hear your opinions. Of course, those who don't know the situation don't need to say anything for now. Just listen to what the others have to say."
"...Hey. Where did the man of the hour go?"
"Shion."
"He is... currently taking his meal in a separate room."
"Yes. If his Value is lower than yours, that is the correct response. I originally thought to give him the same meal as the maids for his first day, but I changed my mind. I had them take him a pack of instant curry from the basement. To get to the point, I’ll be lowering his Value immediately. It seems harsh to drop him to zero right away, so let’s see how he does at 20 million. Yatsuka. What work is there for a 20-million-yen man?"
"There is some, but... men are beasts, as they say. Even setting aside the exception of Keiya-san, I worry about him being a nuisance to the others."
"You were raised in a very fastidious household, weren't you? I understand what you’re saying, but don't worry. If he tries anything like that, you’re welcome to send him to the basement."
"......Understood."
"We’ve gotten off track. So, Yatsuka, what do you think? Including what I just said, how should he be treated?"
"I believe 800,000 yen would be appropriate. Mutsuya Hasekura is boisterous, and I confirmed him making disparaging remarks about Keiya-san. As someone bought by Eina-sama, I cannot overlook such statements."
"Me too! Honestly, I think 100,000 yen is enough! The reason is that I was reaaaaally pissed off at him for making fun of Sagiri-kun!"
"I think... about 500,000. It might be premature to slash his Value so casually... though that might not be the case here..."
Yatsuka, Ayaka, and Shion all gave negative reactions. I kept it to myself, but it felt less like she wanted opinions and more like a meeting just to praise Eina. And I wish they’d stop using me as their excuse.
"Yes. I see. I understand perfectly. Those of you who don't know Mutsuya Hasekura-kun, remember these words. Think about how you’ll feel when you have to deal with him. My opinion remains at 20 million. I hate even speaking of him now, so I’m leaving his work entirely to Yatsuka. Do your best."
"Understood. I shall handle everything."
"Yes. There’s no need for kindness, so be strict. Until my anger has subsided."
—Yeah, those comments were a bad move.
Eina had assigned me a Value of 300 million herself. To undervalue me in front of her was, in a way, an insult to her own appraisal skills. He should have just been happy with the 50 million. It’s bad enough to annoy Eina, but to get on the maids' bad side too... he’s unlucky.
"Fine. It’s clear to me that you all treasure my Keiya. Please enjoy your meal here today."
"Don't you start using me as an excuse too!"
"Keiya-sama. I don't think Eina-sama would allow anyone to treat you as mere flavor text!"
"That's not what I meant......!"
A family dinner. I had been a stranger to such warm scenes until I was bought by Eina. But today, it was right here.
Once dinner ended, it was time for baths. There’s a grand bath in the basement, and Eina and I are always the first ones in. It goes without saying, but it’s a mixed bath. Even if I try to look away, we’re together from the moment we start undressing, so as a man, my eyes are naturally drawn to her. Once we’re both completely naked, it’s even harder. Eina is very aggressive with physical contact in the bath. Seeing a man’s unavoidable reaction up close, she sometimes wears an ecstatic expression, while I always feel like I’m going to die of embarrassment. I’ve wondered so many times if I could hide it better if it were smaller. Resenting its size... I know it’s a weird thought.
There are exceptions. The days Eina decides to have a party, and the New Year holidays. On those days, there is no set order, and everyone, including the laundry maids, uses the grand bath. With me in there, of course. I wish they’d just treat me like I wasn't there, but every single one of them looks at me and has the same reaction as Eina, leaving me unable to even move.
In those cases, it’s less about embarrassment and more about... pain. Any man would understand what I mean. What kind of pain, and how awkward it is.
But it’s not exactly hell, either. If I close my eyes to the overwhelming, stimulating view, everyone, including Eina, dotes on me, so I always leave with a sense of total satisfaction. It’s not something that can be weighed against mere awkwardness.
"That felt good, didn't it?"
As soon as we returned to the room after bathing and changing, Eina asked for my agreement. My only response was:
"...I’m still embarrassed............"
"And yet, who was it that was staring with such heavy breathing?"
"Uu... because everyone was so beautiful."
Appearance is a vital factor in finding Value in a person. You can see from Hasekura that it’s not just about looks, but it’s not only about the inside either. Just as a filthy person covered in spit has no business preaching about cleanliness, appearance is key. The women Eina buys are all beauties. A whole crowd of naked beauties as far as the eye can see, and they’re all looking at me. Eina won't let me close my eyes, so I can't help but react. It’s an irresistible force (and they talk to me like it’s normal, while blushing).
And on those days, the maids join Eina in carefully washing my body, so even if I covered my eyes, I couldn't avoid that. Seeing how they all do it so happily, I think they’ve been tainted by Eina’s influence.
"You’ve gotten better at drying my hair compared to a year ago. Taking a bath with Keiya is fun. If I could, I’d stay in there forever. Until our bodies melt into one."
"Don't say scary things like that."
"It’s a joke. But you can be a bit more aggressive when we wash each other. You’re always so stiff when you touch me."
"Stop, don't make me remember any more! Um... because I won't be able to sleep! You’re a girl, so you might not understand, but... well. It hurts... I can't even think about sleeping."
"You care for me that much? I’m happy. If you can’t calm down, why not take a walk around the mansion? I’ll get ready for bed, so come back in about fifteen minutes."
Eina held out her pinky. Her favorite way to make a promise. Ever since I was bought, I’ve done this every night before bed, and it always makes Eina feel safe and helps her sleep deeply. It might be my imagination, but she looks younger when our fingers are linked.
"I-I’ll do that... Thanks, as always, Eina."
"......Take care. I hate being lonely, so make sure you come back."
I left Eina’s room and went down to the entrance hall. The quiet, devoid of the usual hustle and bustle, was likely because the maids had moved to the grand bath. Since mixed bathing is normal here, I suppose it wouldn't be a problem if I went, but my ironclad sense of reason wouldn't allow it. It feels like I’d be failing as a human being.
"Oh, Keiya-kun. It’s rare to see you without Eina-sama."
"Yatsuka-san."
The kitchen was noisy with prep for tomorrow, so I was walking aimlessly to avoid it when I ran into Yatsuka-san. She was wearing a suit instead of her usual maid uniform. I didn't know its Value, but the material felt incredibly high-end. It was smooth to the touch. I was so curious about the unusual outfit that I didn't notice her looking down at me with reddened ears as I touched it.
"Ah, sorry. Yatsuka-san, are you still working?"
"Something like that. I’ll be out for a while, so I won't be able to respond if you call for me. It’s an important order from Eina-sama."
"I should have been with her the whole time, when did she give you an order...?"
"She left a note stuck to the back of a dinner plate. More importantly... it’s a coincidence that we met here. Is it true that Mutsuya Hasekura is your classmate?"
"There’s no point in lying about it. If he wasn't a classmate, he wouldn't even have a point of contact with Eina. Um... I’ve gotten used to the rules of this house. I don't really have an opinion on what happens to him now. But really, what do you think of him? Do you find him unpleasant?"
"Yes."
Her response was immediate. I thought she was just going along with Eina, so the speed of her answer caught me off guard. Yatsuka took my hand, bent her knees slightly to match my eye level, and smiled.
"One's upbringing fundamentally warps a person. It’s difficult for external factors to change that later. If it looks like they’ve changed, they’re just putting on an act, and the truth will come out eventually. In my personal opinion, I don't think he’ll be able to endure life here, and I’d be troubled if he did. He made fun of Keiya-kun. He made fun of the eyes of the mistress who bought Keiya-kun. That’s more than enough reason."
"......So you weren't just using me as an excuse."
"Did you think those of us who have bonded with Eina-sama wouldn't also be won over by you? Have more confidence, Keiya-kun. Don't worry about Mutsuya Hasekura’s nonsense; you are a far more wonderful man than you think you are."
"Ahaha... hearing that makes me blush. I’m happy. Lastly... I’d like to talk to him for a bit. Could you tell me where Hasekura’s room is? There are so many rooms here, I can't find my way around."
Asking Eina would have been the fastest way, but since she’d said at dinner that she hated even mentioning him, I’d found it hard to ask. The mansion has four floors; Eina’s room is on the third. The high-Value servants, starting with Yatsuka-san, have their rooms on the second. The rest are likely spread across the first.
So, even if I could rule out the second floor, searching the rest would be inefficient. Hasekura had been called in suddenly today, and I figured he’d been locked in a room without being shown around, but this place is easily three times larger than you’d imagine. In addition to the laundry, there’s an annex on the grounds, and while the basement has several facilities, most of it is still unused. If you just walk around, you’ll definitely get lost. He probably would have been speechless if he’d seen the yard from the sunroom.
"What do you intend to do?"
"......I just want to talk to him for a bit, as a former classmate."
"I see, a waste of time. But if you insist, I will tell you."
I followed Yatsuka-san, but the path was strange. First, she took an old key from a storage room, then through a hidden door around a corner. There was an iron grate beyond that, which she opened with the old key, and down some stairs were a row of rooms.
Most were likely empty, but I knew which one was Hasekura’s immediately because there was a knife stabbed into the door.
"My apologies. Someone must be playing a prank. It’s this way."
"Why are there empty rooms past a hidden door?"
"Because no matter how many things she buys, it would be cramped if there was no place to put them. Well then, I’ll be going."
Yatsuka-san retrieved the knife and went back up the stairs. I wondered how Hasekura felt about being brought to a place like this. When I knocked, the face I’d seen just this afternoon appeared.
"Oh, it's Keiya! Thanks for this, man! Introducing me to a place like this!"
"Don't just use my name like that. We aren't that close."
"What are you saying~? We’re fellow Property, aren't we? My friend, my brother! Hahaha!"
True to his 20-million-yen treatment, it was a simple room. There was a desk, a bed, and a lamp, and nothing else. The room was so narrow that if he brought someone else in, it would be at its limit. The meal he’d been given must have been cleared away; it was surprisingly clean.
"I tried looking for you, but I got lost. I had to have a maid show me the way, hehehe! Which room is yours? Show me~!"
"I think you should stop..."
"I get it! It’s so pathetic you’re embarrassed to show it, right? Gyahahaha!"
Hasekura was on such a high that he wasn't listening to a word I said. I could guess the cause. It was the attache case under the desk. He thought he’d gotten 50 million yen and become friends with Eina. Either that, or because the maids were all beautiful. The reason didn't matter; the real problem was that he didn't understand the gravity of the situation.
"Man, I never thought she’d want me enough to pay for me! Is this what they call 'hitting the jackpot'? I’m gonna brag about it at school tomorrow! I might even tell them we're lovers!"
"Hey, listen to me. I’m telling you for your own good—run away now. And leave the money behind. If you do, she might let you go."
"Huh? Why would I do that? You’re just planning to steal it, aren't you! How much were you bought for, do you have to steal from me because you’re so broke?!"
"That’s not it... did you even read the contract?! You don't understand anything. You should go home. Seriously."
"No way. I already told them I’m staying at the place of the person I love. Is that it? Are you jealous because you liked her first and I’m the latecomer? You’re such a pathetic loser! Fifty yen!"
My desperate plea seemed to have the opposite effect. Hasekura saw me as a nuisance, and before I knew it, he’d shoved me and was pinning me against the wall by my throat.
"Guh......"
"I don't have to follow the law here, right? I read it properly. So I can do this to you. I could even beat you up right here... hehe."
—You half-reading bastard!
That wasn't what it meant at all.
He seemed to like the look of my defenseless, pained face; sadism is something anyone might have inside them. Hasekura let go of me and went back into his room, looking down at me as he spat out:
"Don't talk back to someone with more Value than you, you trash. Well, I’ll let you off since you live such a miserable life. Don't come here again."
I stood up after the door had closed and locked. It was no use talking to someone who was so full of himself. Counting myself lucky that I wasn't actually beaten, I headed back to the room. Eina would be lonely.
"You’re late."
"Sorry, sorry. I was... in the bathroom."
In the room, Eina was waiting for me on the canopied bed, rubbing her sleepy eyes. The curtains were mostly closed, except for one side. A gap left open just for me.
"If you have no more regrets, let’s go to sleep. Tomorrow will surely be a happy day. Because today was happy, too."
Eina pulled me into the bed. As I closed the curtains, she remotely turned off the lights and invited me into the blankets.
"We’re truly alone now. I’m so happy to be able to sleep while looking at you... hey, no one is watching, so could you come closer? More, until I can feel your heat."
"Eina...... well. A lot might have happened today, but I was happy too. I’m saying this because I’m not embarrassed before bed. I love you, Eina. I’m happy to be by your side."
"......Fufu. You had the eyes of a beast in the bath, but you’re such a gentleman here. I love you too. I won't forgive anyone who makes fun of my Keiya. Did you see how motivated the maids were? They all feel the same way."
"......Don't think about people you don't like. Let's just be as we always are. I’ll only think of you, so you only think of me while we sleep."
"Yes. You’re right. How unlike me, to think of such trivial things when the person I love is right next to me."
We linked our fingers over her chest and shared a goodnight kiss.
"Goodnight, Eina."
"Goodnight, Keiya."
I didn't care about Hasekura anymore. Compared to this happiness, he was insignificant.
◇
I’m always the first to wake up.
The black curtain obscuring my vision was Eina’s hair. I brushed it from my face and rubbed my sleepy eyes, thinking the bed curtains were closed... no. This was Eina’s house, and I had been bought. It had been decided a year ago, but memories of the past always come flooding back.
Memories of being woken up by my mother shouting at me.
She never allowed me even a little bit of extra sleep. "I'm sleepy" was a trigger. My Value was in listening to my parents. If they told me to wake up, I had to wake up. I remember my mother hitting me with a hanger when she got hysterical. Even though it feels like a long time ago, waking up always feels like returning to those distant days.
"——————"
Monopolizing the sleeping face of the girl I love—it’s the exclusive privilege of the one who shares her bed. I still love Eina, and even if she’s more than a little insane, that feeling doesn’t change. It feels as if this emotion hasn’t just lasted a year, but has been constant since the very day we met.
Ensnared in the world of sleep, her expression is peaceful, making her usual cold and blunt behavior seem like a lie. She’s incredibly cute. The fact that there’s a side of her she only shows to me makes being bought by her feel meaningful.
Upon waking, my reason is always weak. Somewhere, a voice tells me to abandon thought and follow my instincts. A reaction natural to any man stirrs within me, and so early in the morning, too. It hurts to the point of being painful.
"............Please, don't wake up," I whisper.
The reason I’m so frequently embarrassed is because Eina’s eyes are always on me. But here, inside the bed with the curtains drawn, we are truly alone. In this fleeting moment where her authority as a Master hasn't yet activated, my twisted, pent-up adolescence drives my body in a wicked direction.
"Ngh............ hnh............"
I knead a softness that literally overflows from my palms, even when spread to their limit. I tell myself this is inevitable as I bury my face and move my hands.
Even before I was bought, I never really had such a thing as privacy. If anything, my time with Eina was all I had... So, to use an example, if a teenage boy were to get his hands on an erotic magazine, I had neither the time to read it nor a place to hide it.
Since being bought by Eina, this has only worsened. The massive mansion is filled with beautiful maids of every type, and the Master who bought them is so beautiful she commands everyone's gaze, overflowing with feminine charm. As 'Keiya-kun,' I can say for certain: there are plenty of boys who have had fantasies about Eina. When she wore her school swimsuit or gym clothes, their excitement reached its peak.
For me, with no place to vent, this is just... inevitable.
Even as I tried to convince myself, I knew I was being the absolute worst. Doing this while the girl I love is defenseless and sleeping—it's really not okay.
"Sorry... Eina............ I'm sorry......"
"—I wonder, what are you apologizing for so much?"
"Whoa!"
Startled by the fact that she had snapped her eyes open, I tried to pull my hands away, but Eina was one step faster. She quickly pressed her body against mine, and while her fingers sank into me, she used her thighs to grind and press against everything from my stomach down.
"Fufu. Attacking me while I’m waking up... you’ve got guts, Keiya. But if you're going to do it, you shouldn't do it over my nightgown—you should put your hands inside instead."
"S-Sorry, Eina! I was wrong!"
"Oh? Why apologize? I’m not angry; in fact, I’m happy. Is this your first offense, or are you a repeat offender? Either way... giggle. I’m truly happy that you see me as a woman. Though, I am surprised it’s this early in the morning."
No matter how I tried to pull my hands away, my fingers stayed buried in her. Was it because Eina’s strength was too much, or because the nerves in my hands had gone numb from the softness and refused to listen? Every time Eina's thighs ground against me, a pained gasp escaped my lips.
"Ugh, ah, ngh...!"
"Next time, put your hands under my clothes. And then inside my underwear... my bra is big, so you might struggle to get them out, but you’ll be fine, right, Keiya? After all, you’re always staring at me with those intense eyes whenever I’m changing in the dressing room."
"I-I said I'm sorry! Please, forgive me!"
"You’re so strange, Keiya, apologizing when I'm not even mad. Seeing you so timid makes me feel so much love for you, but let’s stop here for today. Come now, Keiya. Give me your morning greeting."
"A-Ah... alright..."
Released from her interrogation and thoroughly re-domesticated into obedience, I have no choice but to comply. Seeing Eina spread her arms in invitation, I leaned over and pressed my lips against hers as if pinning her down. When we kiss, she always slides her tongue in. If I resist, it only lasts longer and becomes more embarrassing, so I accept it.
"Lero. Chu............ chupu...... haa. I love you, Keiya. Let’s make plenty of memories today, too."
"Y-Yeah. Anyway, I’ll at least tidy your hair. I know we're going to wash our faces, but I don't think it's right to let you go out looking so defenseless."
Her hair was currently draped over my face, which was expected since it’s long enough to nearly reach her ankles. That’s just what happens when two people sleep together. I haven't opened the curtains yet. I pull a comb from a drawer built into the bed itself and move behind Eina, who is sitting with her legs tucked to the side, to brush her hair.
From my vantage point looking down, I almost get captivated by her cleavage nearly spilling out of her nightdress, but if I please Eina any more, I’ll die of embarrassment. I desperately focus on her hair and try my best to ignore everything else.
"Yawn... We have school again today. It’s tedious, but that’s fine. I’ve decided to stay with you until you graduate, Keiya."
"Won't you be a bit busier if you join a club?" I ask.
"Even if I did, no one would try to teach me anything. They call them 'club activities,' but any experience at that level can be bought with money... Oh, but we have P.E. today. The boys and girls are separated, but that doesn’t matter. It’s soccer today, isn’t it? I’ll cheer for you plenty."
"No, our setting at school is that we’re just 'friends,' so please follow the school rules. W-Well, swimming season is coming up soon, and then... you know..."
Brushing her hair calms my heart. The version of myself from a few minutes ago, who was losing his mind to lust, feels like a different person.
"—That reminds me, shouldn't we wake up Hasekura? He’s in the soccer club, so he should have morning practice, right?"
"That’s not for you to worry about, Keiya. You’re not in the soccer club."
I accept her logic and put the comb away. Eina opens the curtains and reaches her hand out to me.
"Shall we go wash our faces? We don't have much time until breakfast."
The washroom is in the basement.
As for why it’s designed that way, it’s because the grand bath is in the basement. But according to Ayaka-san, it also reflects Eina’s desire to spend even a single second longer with me during our morning routine. In contrast to the glittering mansion, the door to the basement has iron bars. Down the stairs lies the grand bath, and the washroom is through a door just beyond it.
"Brushing your teeth is important too," Eina notes.
"I know that."
Given the vast space used for the basement, the facilities don't end there. The basement stairs lead to a mid-level landing where the path branches further. Even I haven’t been into every room. Eina won’t take me, saying, "There’s no need for you to go there."
I have a general idea of what's down there, though.
"I think that’s enough. Let’s go back," Eina says.
We hold hands and head up the stairs.
On the way, we run into Ayaka-san at the mid-level junction.
"Eina-sama, good morning! Oh, and Sagiri-kun, you seem to be in high spirits too!"
"I feel like you’re the one in high spirits, Ayaka-san..." I mutter.
"Ayaka. Are the preparations finished?" Eina asks.
"Yes, yes, they’re perfect! I listened carefully to Yatsuka-san’s instructions. Breakfast is all ready, so please, you two, head to the breakfast room! The sunlight is coming in beautifully today—it feels great!"
"I see. I’m looking forward to it."
The concept of a 'breakfast room' is unfamiliar to commoners, but it’s fine. I also wondered what it was at first. It’s literally a space just for breakfast, built in the opposite direction of the kitchen. Its key features are its narrowness and the windows designed to let in the sun.
It’s just narrow enough that Eina and I sitting across from each other fills the room. While we held hands waiting for breakfast, a certain thought kept nagging at me.
Is that Hasekura guy not awake yet?
Whether he had morning practice or not, if he didn't wake up soon, he wouldn't even make it to school... Just as I was thinking that, breakfast was wheeled in on a cart. In true wealthy fashion, it was an all-you-can-eat buffet of choices: danishes, dishes with names I didn't recognize like Flamenco eggs (I only knew danishes were bread), and a mountain of luxury items like truffles with omelets. Since the chef who was bought is a professional, the food always tastes amazing, and I always finish breakfast feeling on top of the world.
By the way, if requested, we can have Japanese or Chinese style instead. I’ve asked for it a few times. In those cases, Ayaka-san apparently takes the lead instead of the chef.
"Is it good? The food in this house really is the best, isn’t it? There are some poor souls who don't get to eat this... No, I shouldn't jump to conclusions. Maybe he'll be able to eat."
"Wooooah, I'm starviiiiiiing!"
Noise intruded into the breakfast room that was normally filled with the happiness of Eina occasionally feeding me. It was Hasekura’s voice. The sound of frantic running drew near. He had apparently gone to the kitchen only to be kicked out immediately, and now his footsteps were approaching us.
"............Sigh, the worst," Eina muttered.
The breakfast room is more of an open space than a private room. Before long, Hasekura's eyes landed on the two of us dining elegantly.
"Ha............ what?! You—Keiya. Why is 'Fifty-Yen' eating?!"
"Fifty yen?" Eina repeated.
"That’s my... Value, apparently. According to him."
"Hey, Eina! Give me some breakfast too! Also, what time is it? Come to think of it, there aren't any clocks in this mansion! My phone is gone, and I have morning practice. Just give me something!"
"Hasekura. You really shouldn't ruin Eina's mood..." I warned.
"Shut up! Did you forget what happened yesterday?! We can ignore the law here, right? In that case, I’ll just beat the crap out of you right here to prove I have more value—Baaaaa-ba-ba-ba-gyaaaaaa!"
"You must not. Disturbing Eina-sama’s meal is forbidden."
Shion had approached from behind without a sound and struck him with a stun baton. Without even sparing a glance at the 20-million-yen man who had been neutralized in an instant, Eina tilted her head toward me.
"Yesterday... what did he do?"
"Eh. Oh... well. I just wanted to make sure he’d actually read the contract properly."
"You’re so kind," she said.
"And then............ he pinned me down."
Eina popped a piece of danish into her mouth, swallowed, and then turned her gaze to Shion.
"The food is starting to taste bad. Put him back in his room for now."
"Understood."
Shion dragged Hasekura across the floor back to his room. Every time he tried to resist, she delivered a merciless follow-up with the stun baton, until he seemingly learned that resistance was futile. By the time he disappeared from my sight, he was more docile than a frightened kitten.
"Five million," Eina said.
"Eh?"
"Mutsuya Hasekura’s Value."
The Value Eina assigns is fluid and can change drastically based on her mood. But I had never seen such a brutal shift before. I’ve lived here for over a year and have seen the Value Note. Countless people who are obedient to Eina have had their Value drop slightly. But those deductions were usually just minor fluctuations, and in most cases, they recovered or increased over time. This was the first time I’d seen a re-evaluation where an entire digit vanished, as it had with Hasekura.
"Isn't... isn't that a bit too much of a drop?"
"I won't say I have extreme preferences regarding food, but still, dining while enduring the noise around me is not beautiful. Why did I build a house in a place like this? It was to escape the noise of the secular world. I’m not saying don't talk—I look forward to this time because I get to spend it with you. But his voice is unnecessary. Even his presence is unwanted. I tried to respect his self-evaluation, but in the end, he simply didn't have that Value."
After giving a long list of plausible reasons, Eina ordered a maid who happened to be passing by to pour her some tea. She gripped the handle of the cup with her fingers and took a quiet sip.
"............I cannot forgive an act of harm against you."
"I’m... just glad you didn't get hurt, Eina. Hasekura can be unpredictable when he gets cocky. If it had been you instead of me, it would have been much worse..."
"There’s no reason for you to worry about me. Not reading the contract properly was his own failure, and that too is part of Mutsuya Hasekura’s Value. There are no 'what-ifs.' There is only the fact that he used violence against you. That is the problem."
"......You really are kind," I said.
"It wasn't your idea in the first place. You said you wanted to have a fun school life. Is a student life where unpleasant things happen at home really fun? I don't think so, which is why I don't intend to let it end with just this."
◇
"Hey, did you hear? Hasekura dropped out of school."
"Dropped out?! Why?"
"I don't know, apparently it was an order from the government."
I learned about Hasekura’s withdrawal shortly after I started my 'Keiya-kun' roleplay for the day.
"Is that true?" I asked my classmates.
"Yeah. Even the teacher looked confused, so it’s for real. An emergency order from the government? I heard the principal turned pale and rushed the withdrawal papers because he was told he’d be arrested if he ignored it."
"Can you really drop out that instantly? That's a lot different than skipping a part-time job. It’s not like he even did anything bad."
"Don't ask me. He really did drop out, though."
"He was a key player for the soccer club—it's gonna be rough for them. I guess the tournament is out this year?"
Listening to my classmates laugh about it since it was someone else's problem, I finally understood what Eina meant. It really wasn't something for me to worry about. That’s clearly what Yatsuka-san had been doing when she went out in her suit at night. The maids living in that house are like Eina’s own hands and feet. She must have gone to make the arrangements.
I wasn't close enough to Hasekura to object to his treatment, and since he was the one who didn't read the contract, he had it coming. He should have read it thoroughly instead of just skimming. And he should have thought about what it meant to surrender his human rights.
This is why the maids living here are so desperate to increase their Value. It wasn't just Hasekura ruining her mood that led to this. I think if his Value had stayed at 50 million, it wouldn't have turned out like this. But he’s still okay. There are people below him... although those with a Value lower than the current Hasekura are there by their own choice. Eina just respects their wishes, but in reality, their Value is higher.
Naturally, Eina is not the type to go out of her way to buy something cheap. She wouldn't even show the intention to buy someone worth around a million. Since he has no way of knowing, it won't reach him, but 5 million is the bare minimum Value. If he can maintain that, things won't get any worse for him.
"So what happened with the confession to Eina in the end?"
"With him acting like that, it must have failed. It's not like she looks like she has someone she likes—I wonder who could actually make Eina their girlfriend."
Is it crude to say someone could just pile up enough money? That amount isn't something you can just get by winning the lottery. Men confident in their looks think, 'I could do it,' but if they can’t show their Value, she won't even be interested. I said earlier that the maids are desperate to increase their Value, but that doesn’t mean they’re ruled by fear. As you can see from Ayaka-san’s enjoyment, everyone truly adores and serves Eina from their hearts. It’s true that they’ve all lost their human rights, but they still live luxuriously and their freedom is guaranteed to an extent. If all you have to do is be obedient, it's not a hard life.
I might have phrased that poorly. Tasks without motivation are painful, but if you have motivation, you can endure any amount of burden—that's what I meant.
Just like my classmate over there who can play video games for dozens of hours but gets bored of studying after two.
"You know, I realized lately... rather than searching for images, it’s better to just fantasize about Eina..."
"I get you~"
Starting with a guy waving his hands around, the boys who like Eina got fired up in a discussion about their fantasies. Even though we technically liked her for the same reason, I felt like I couldn't join in since I actually lived with her, so I quietly slipped away from the group. When someone is this popular with boys, her popularity with girls usually suffers for balance—and in fact, I don't think she's popular with them, but is it because they instinctively sense danger that they don't talk behind her back? Or is it because she’ll help them out within the scope of classmate interaction, and will respond even with her 'salty' attitude if they talk to her?
No, maybe it’s because she shares info about beauty products. Everyone knows she's wealthy because all of them are high-end goods, so whether it's actually helpful is another story. Also, kids who are isolated in class and on the verge of being bullied often try to talk to Eina to avoid trouble.
The malicious thing about bullying is its chain-like nature, where the person who protects the target becomes the next target, but no one has ever tried that with Eina. She simply treats it as someone else's problem, saying, 'Don't do that near me'. I don't know why no one ever gets her involved, but I think it’s the right call.
I don't think he expected to be immediately expelled without his own or his parents' consent.
Ding-dong, dang-dong.
The bell rings to signal the end of class. The boys who normally can't even get ready for class started changing like a whirlwind because the next period is P.E. Most people like P.E. unless they’re bad at sports. Even some who are bad at sports like moving their bodies.
By some twist of fate, it’s soccer today, and we’ll probably be split into random teams. Maybe a draft format with the soccer club captain? The girls head to the locker room to change. Some people wear their gym clothes under their blouses so they only have to take off their uniforms, but they were a minority in our class.
"Hasekura's not here—what are we gonna do? Whether he’s here or not changes today’s win-loss record..."
"An order from the government? What the hell did he even do? Seriously, man..."
What would he think if he heard his classmates saying whatever they wanted about his expulsion? No, maybe he’s actually happy he doesn't have to go to school anymore. Being bought by Eina is effectively a job. Since he’s not bound by any laws, maybe he’s having fun............
—I’m curious.
Slipping out of the classroom early, I pulled out the phone I’d hidden in my pocket and tried to contact Shion. This phone is a custom-made gift from Eina, and it can't contact anyone except Eina and the maids. There's a clock in the classroom so it doesn't matter now, but this phone doesn't even have a clock function. Other than that, it’s mostly a normal phone.
'I want to know how Hasekura is doing.'
Read. A video was sent back without a word. I put in my wireless earbuds and hide by the stairs leading to the roof. Turning up the volume, the first thing I hear is Hasekura shouting.
'Why the hell can't I go to school?!'
'Because you were expelled as of yesterday. There’s no need for you to go, and you couldn't take classes even if you did. You’re no longer enrolled.'
The one speaking is Yatsuka-san. Maybe as an effect of his dropped Value, her polite tone has vanished and she’s being quite blunt.
'What?! It’s gonna screw up the club if I'm not there! And I didn't sign up for any of this!'
'I went and handled it. As it said in the contract, all of your human rights have been transferred to Eina-sama. Therefore, the law will not protect you. More importantly, starting today you’ll be working hard as a member of this household's Property, so don't slack off'.
'Are you kid—gah!!'
The leather whip Yatsuka-san swung struck Hasekura directly. It echoed with a crack like something from a movie as the pain was etched into him. He seemed to flare up again after the first strike, but once his legs were swept and he was pinned to the floor, he was whipped relentlessly over and over again, until he ended up curled into a ball like a pill bug, unable to move.
The scene changes.
—Wait, edited?
I didn't think it was freshly recorded, but why was it edited? Who was it meant for? The camera seems to be looking down from above, and from its freedom of movement, I guessed it was a drone. Hasekura was being made to go back and forth between the laundry and the main house, carrying a basket filled with a mountain of laundry.
The large black bra, big as a bowl, belonged to Eina, but given his tattered school uniform (come to think of it, maybe he wasn't given pajamas?), he no longer had the luxury of caring about that. Following behind him was Haru Kokone, holding a taser gun in both hands. It was half the intimidation of her snake-like pupils and half the security of her child-like frame. But the burn scars from her neck to her shoulder and the syringe on her thigh instantly broke the balance of that first impression. She had a mop on her back, so she was probably in the middle of cleaning.
'Men are strong, so no slacking off♪ If you drop it, I'll shoot'.
'W-Where did that guy go! Keiya! Make Keiya do this, he was bought too!'
'Keiya-sama is at school♪'
'Isn't that guy worth fifty yen?!'
'Either way, Keiya-sama helps out willingly, you know? The laundry girls even dress up for Keiya-sama’s sake... You’re classmates, right? You’d better hurry up and work hard'.
Hasekura likely didn't realize the comment was borderline harassment. With a yard this big, there are cars for getting around. I don’t know the official name—maybe a golf cart? There are two-seaters and four-seaters, with a space in the back for laundry. I used to ask the laundry girls for a ride, but after a year, I learned how to drive one myself.
It wasn't a distance you could walk.
"Ah."
'Ah!'
A flat red bra—the underwear of a girl named Kiho, who worked with Shion—dropped. Then a pair of pink panties belonging to Ayaka-san fell, followed by a relatively large blue bra with black trim belonging to Hijiri, and then a white lace set belonging to Yatsuka-san. They kept falling. The reason I could tell whose was whose was mostly from the sizes I’d seen in the grand bath and the patterns I’d seen in the dressing room. Since we change and bathe together, the images get stuck in my head whether I want them to or not. I really am the worst.
Since they know my underwear too, it's fine... no, it's not. They’ve seen even more embarrassing parts of me.
'Byahahaha-ga-ga-ga-gaaaaaaaa!'
A taser gun fired without warning stopped Hasekura in his tracks, but inertia made him fall forward, and the laundry in the basket spilled out all at once. It was also unlucky that he was halfway to the laundry building. The maids swarmed out from inside, stun batons in hand, and surrounded Hasekura, everyone striking him with electricity.
'Gyaaaaaaaaaaaah............'
The drone flew away, and the recording ended.
"............"
I told you to run. It’s because he ruined Eina’s mood. I thanked Shion and went to return my earbuds and phone to the classroom, but everyone was already gathering on the field. I rushed outside too. For some reason, I passed a girl who wasn't in our class, but I didn't have time to wonder about it. I’d be in trouble if I were late.
When I went to swap my shoes at the entrance, I noticed a letter inside. From the incredibly elegant handwriting, it was clearly from Eina.
'I'm sorry I couldn't prepare a morning dessert today. I'll make time for it when we get home'.
When your Value is high, Eina’s treatment changes accordingly. A ballpoint pen was left with the letter—not just as a weight, but clearly as a request for a reply. I don't know if 'Keiya-kun' would have such an exchange, but I have to respond to her feelings.
'Thanks. Let’s eat it together while we relax in the sunroom. I like that polite side of you'.
I put it in Eina’s shoe locker. I don't need a reply, but I’ll return the pen.
◇
"Phew............"
I was put on the team that didn't have anyone from the soccer club. Strictly speaking, there were some, but we were short on numbers. We would have been even if Hasekura had been here, but that’s because he only skimmed the contract. He was receiving such terrible treatment, but if he can somehow recover and make it to the contract termination, I’ll honestly congratulate him. Though I think after treatment like that, the only option is to be obedient.
Luckily, P.E. ended with the fourth period, and lunch was waiting. It was a race for speed among those heading back to the classroom to start lunch. For those relying on the school store, it was literally a battle. I didn't care. I had the Ayaka-san Special bento. While slowly climbing the stairs, Eina came flying out of the classroom filled with girls who had returned first and grabbed my shoulder.
"Keiya-kun. You’ve come at just the right time. Let’s eat our bento together."
"Ah, yeah, sure... but I haven't changed yet. If you could just wait a bit—"
In Eina’s hand was my gym bag, stuffed with my school uniform. She’d brought it for me, which saved some effort, but was that really okay? Before I could think, she forcibly led me up to the roof.
"Hey, hey! Bringing my clothes for me... is that something a normal friend does?!"
"There are children who go to school and take classes just because they want to talk to their friends. Just like how they choose their next school based on where their friends are going, even if the teacher tells them not to. So, it’s fine."
It’s not fine!
Since Eina bought the roof, stepping into this area is considered trespassing. Therefore, there’s no chance of being disturbed. Apparently, considering that the school is a public facility, she told them they can use it freely when she’s not there... I wonder why she’s so particular.
We reached the roof. Eina let go of my hand and took a laptop from a drone that was waiting in the air. Since it was embarrassing to be seen, I finished changing in the meantime, and as I finished, she cast a slightly disappointed glance my way.
"I’m sorry, Keiya-kun. I wanted to invite you more naturally, but I simply had a video I just had to watch with 'Keiya'."
"A video you want to watch?"
I sat on a bench with peeling paint and leaned in close to Eina to peer at the laptop screen. For a while, the screen showed nothing unusual, but the moment she launched an app, it took over the screen and switched to a camera feed.
Ayaka-san was waving with a big smile.
'Hello! Eina-sama, you haven't changed a bit today. Wait, when was I supposed to say that greeting?'
"Ayaka-san?! No, wait, Eina, this isn't what we talked about. You’re the one who said you wanted me to act like a friend while I’m at school. This is just—"
"Aren't you curious about Hasekura?" Eina interrupted.
"......"
It would be a lie to say I wasn't.
We weren't close enough for me to really care about him, but was he still trying to stay even after all that, or was he trying to escape? Either way, it’s better for him to act fast. Life is more important than anything.
"I am..."
"In that case, the 'friends' role is temporarily suspended. Ayaka. What is Mutsuya Hasekura’s current status?"
'With the way he is now, he’d just be a nuisance in the kitchen, so I have nothing to report. But he seems totally useless~ I hear people saying he’s not good for much. Maybe the punishment was too harsh?'
"I’m the one who decides that. Where is he now?"
'He’s cooped up in his room. He keeps muttering to himself that he doesn't want to go outside and that this wasn't how it was supposed to be. Oh, I’ll connect the audio from the bug in his room now! '
Terrifying words were said so casually, but there are no human rights as long as you live in the mansion. It’s his own fault for having conversations he doesn't want heard, but from what I could hear, he seemed quite exhausted, which made me feel a little sorry for him. Through the audio, his fear of the maids and his insults toward me (mostly about how differently we were treated) leaked out, along with his hostility toward Eina born of his ulterior motives.
He’d thought he could become her lover or at least get her to sleep with him once he was bought, he was afraid of the maids who used violence without changing their expressions, and he wondered why Keiya was getting along so well. He wasn't the type of person to talk to himself, so he must be truly cornered.
"............He looks a little pathetic. I won't say release him already, but he looks so miserable. Won't he run away soon?"
"Run away? To where?" Eina asked.
"What do you mean 'where'? Eina, he’s not like me. He has a place to go back to. I think he said he was staying at the house of the person he loved, so it wouldn't be strange for him to go back there if that was his plan."
"............Ah. I suppose I hadn't told you. Ayaka, what was the result of the assessment?"
'Yes! According to Yatsuka-san’s report, it seems the property was successfully sold! I haven't heard the exact amount, but a new tenant has been decided, and the furniture was finished being moved out exactly when Eina-sama was in P.E.!'
"I see. Good. Land prices have been skyrocketing lately, so it must have been a decent amount of money."
"You... did you really sell Hasekura’s house?" I stammered.
"Yes. It took a bit of work since it was a house built on land he’d bought. I’ve provided his family with the sale amount plus a little extra, so I’m sure they’ll do fine in their new place."
"No, I’m not trying to say it’s 'safe' because you didn't just steal it! How could they possibly agree to an immediate eviction and buyout?!"
'Well~ ordinary people don't go against orders from the government. If they did, it would be a forced execution anyway, and if they resisted, wouldn't that be obstruction of justice? I’m not an expert on criminal law, but they’d probably be found guilty in court! The world is cold, isn’t it—sucking up to power is the basic rule!'
I was lost for words. I knew Eina had power, but I never imagined it reached that far. That meant Yatsuka-san had gone out that night to steal his place to go back to—and it was finished while we were at school and while Hasekura was being worked to the bone at the mansion. Even if he tried to run, there was nowhere to go. Because his home was gone.
"—Wait. Even if they agreed to that, didn't they mention not telling their son? If they're not toxic parents like mine, I'd think they would."
"I told Yatsuka to explain that to them. That Mutsuya Hasekura sold himself for 50 million. Ayaka, how did that go?"
'Yes! I’ll tell you exactly what was in Yatsuka-san’s report! Maybe they were too flustered because their property was being seized by the government, but they backed off without pushing any further. It’s strange, isn't it? In dramas, people will pay a billion to get their child back, but in reality, they back off for just 50 million'.
"Taxes are high, so it can't be helped. If they use the money I gave them effectively, they can rebuild their lives, but it would be harder if they spent it on someone like Mutsuya Hasekura."
Eina couldn't hide a smile that curled the corner of her lips, and Ayaka-san laughed as cheerfully as ever, saying, "So that's how it is!" From the beginning—or strictly speaking, until last night—the path left to him was now closed. Even if he escaped with his money, he had no home to return to.
Of course, he could use the money he received to run as far away as possible. But that wouldn't work against Eina, and calculating from his current Value, using the 50 million he has on hand as-is would be a breach of contract. It’s debatable if he’d use 50 million just to run, but there’s a strong possibility he’d try hitchhiking by dangling an insane reward.
"What do you plan to do with Hasekura? I know you’re treating him harshly, but wouldn't it be better to just get rid of him quickly?"
"Get rid of him? Why? I only get rid of things when they’re proven to be valueless. If there is Value, they get appropriate treatment. Currently, Mutsuya Hasekura’s life is worth 5 million. I think that treatment is appropriate for a life of that level."
"............I bet he’ll run away tonight."
Eina thanked Ayaka-san, closed the laptop, spread out the bento she’d brought on her lap, and offered me the chopsticks.
"Keiya-kun. He is still mine. I don't remember ever allowing that."
My lunch break was happy, regardless of the former classmate who had received a death sentence without his knowledge.
Once school is over, the time for each person's chosen club activities begins. Those activities are 'club' in name only, and 'voluntary' in name only; whether they suit someone or not depends on the person. No matter how much someone likes the activity, it will be painful if their relationships are bad, and conversely, they can work hard even if the activity itself is mediocre if their relationships are good.
None of that mattered to me after being bought by Eina. I waited a bit after she left the classroom before trying to leave myself, but the boys seemed to be getting fired up about something.
"What are you all so excited about?" I asked.
"We’re talking about who Eina was looking at!" they replied.
"Huh?"
I didn't get it at first.
They showed me a picture of the line of girls returning to the classroom after ping-pong. Even from a distance, she was easy to spot. She had her long hair tied back. A ponytail that long is something hard to imitate even if you try. Eina's gaze in the photo was directed toward the boys.
"It's huge... and look at this when the guy behind her is grabbing her waist. So thin... damn. I’m getting excited. She must have been looking at me! I was doing great!"
"No way, it was me. You 'doing great' doesn't matter since this was taken when class ended."
"Wait, wait. Who even brought their phone to class and took a picture? I think she just noticed the camera."
"Does that mean it’s me?! Is my life about to turn rosy after I confess?!"
The boys were captivated by Eina, who was cloaked in allure in so many ways. My voice wouldn't reach them. But I did agree that Eina in her gym clothes was cute. Speaking of which, swimming season is coming, and so is the sports festival. Last year was... hard to watch, a cruel day where a huge number of guys who liked Eina got dumped even though they had girlfriends. And there were still some who hadn't learned. It’s one thing to have fantasies, but when they started saying Eina was the one they truly loved, their girlfriends obviously weren't happy.
The most pathetic thing was them trying to get back together after being dumped. Saying things like 'I was out of my mind,' 'you’re the only one who matters,' or 'my heart is with you'. I think they were confident they wouldn't be dumped, but if they're going to act like a playboy, they should at least forget about her cleanly.
"Anyway, you guys, club. You're gonna get in trouble."
"Hey, Keiya. Why are you always so close with her? If we go to your house, would we find out why?"
"Oh, great idea! We’re best friends, right! It’s okay if we go to your house, right!"
"Don't just decide we’re best friends. You’re nothing more than classmates. My house... well, they’re strict, so you’d better not..."
The address submitted to the school is likely fake, or belongs to someone I don't know. Normally that would be impossible, but Eina can do it. Even if I led them to that house, it wouldn't be mine, and leading them to the real place would be a major problem. Right now, Hasekura is suffering the consequences of selling his human rights, and I wanted to avoid that at all costs.
"Sigh. That’s why you can't get a girlfriend."
"That has nothing to do with it."
"We just want to know how to become friends with Eina... it’s fine if you just tell us, right? We don't actually care about you at all."
"Oh, but I’ll pay you about 10,000 yen as a thank you!"
"Hahahaha!"
Money.
It was likely intended as a thank-you, but the word "bribery" flickered across the back of my mind. “There is no value that cannot be bought with money.” That was Ouhouin Eina’s worldview. Just as she had bought me, perhaps they were trying to buy me too. Fifty yen, ten thousand yen… was that all my existence was worth?
I’m probably only worth anything because Eina is by my side.
I wouldn’t say it out loud because it would only make her sad, but I truly believed I was worthless. I was just a person capable of a little bit of kindness. It wasn't about ulterior motives; I had simply been conditioned to believe that acting this way was the baseline for existing. It was practically a conditioned reflex. I had successfully escaped my mother’s shackles, but her "education" was still stained into my soul.
"…Well, I’m heading home now."
"Wait, hey! Join a club, man," a classmate called out. "Your grades aren't so bad you need remedial classes, right?"
No, I wasn't suited for anything. Just hanging out was one thing, but committing to something under the guise of "club activities" was too much. More than anything, I didn't want to reduce the time I spent with Eina. After all, "Keiya-kun" only had one friend: her.
The walk to the shoe lockers felt unusually lonely. Boys and girls passed me on their way to club activities, most of them merging with friends somewhere along the path, chatting as they went. I wouldn't call myself unhappy compared to that scenery. I lived in a place like that, and the girl I loved was always by my side. It was probably more accurate to brag about how blessed I was.
But what if Eina hadn't bought me? Would I have this life?
The answer was simple: No. With a mother whose eyes were blinded by greed, she would have ignored my schooling, forced me to work multiple part-time jobs, and collected my earnings like a tax. And I would have obeyed. That is what a lifetime of "discipline" does to a person.
My loneliness was mere selfishness—an unresolvable emotion. But as I passed through the shoe lockers and approached the school gates, a swaying ponytail blocked my path.
"Keiya-kun. Shall we go home together?"
It was Eina.
"…Eh?"
The voice caught in my throat.
Usually, she left earlier to avoid the nuisance of confessions or people talking to her. She also made a point of acting as "Keiya-kun’s" friend in public; going home together risked shattering that dynamic. Yet here she was, taking that risk, waiting for me.
"Why…?"
"Is it a bother?"
"Ah, no, it's not that…"
"Then let us go. Before I stand out too much."
She took my hand—not interlocking fingers, but keeping the "friend" aesthetic by pressing our palms together—and pulled me down the hill.
"I feel bad, Keiya-kun, but I had a wiretap placed in your bag. I asked Shion to do it this morning."
"……"
"You needn't pay any mind to the words of those people. You aren't even close with them. You only need to look at me. You only need to think of me. To value you at less than three hundred million… their eyes must be rotting. How pitiful. To think they could harbor hopes of me liking them when their eyes are filled with such filth."
"…Did you really buy me because you thought I was worth three hundred million?"
"I never lie when I determine Value."
Upon reaching the black sedan, Eina ushered me in first before sliding in beside me, almost pinning me down. Once the doors locked and the curtains were drawn, she threw her upper body onto me, embracing me with all her strength and burying her face in my chest.
"I love you, Keiya. I’ll say it as many times as you need. I love you. I love you. I looooove you. I wouldn't let someone I didn't love touch my chest, nor would I bathe with them. Do you love me, Keiya?"
"Mmph. Fngh. Haaaah!"
"You love me so much you can't even breathe, I see. —Driver, start the car."
As I was on the verge of suffocating, I felt the cold click of handcuffs being snapped onto my wrists. Just as I thought I was being released, Eina swapped positions, hovering over me and pressing her lips against mine. One cuff was linked to Eina’s own wrist; there was no escape.
"If you're anxious, I'll teach your body how I feel, so don't make such a tearful face. Let's deepen our love for one another until we reach the house."
With those words, Eina undid the bottom three buttons of her blouse. Taking my free hand, she guided it to her waist, slowly sliding it upward. Then, she pressed her lips to mine again.
"I wonder how many times we can kiss before we reach the house? Heh heh heh…"
Eina was incredibly mischievous at times like this. I knew what she was doing. Saying "until we reach the house" made it sound like a simple journey, but she never said we were taking the direct route. Having ridden in this car many times, even I could tell the speed was slower than usual. I couldn't see out the windows, but the car was making an excessive number of turns.
"Nn… chu… phu…"
At first, it was a gentle brush of the lips. If this were the bedroom, my restraint would have snapped; I would have leaned over, pinning Eina down to kiss her deeply. Even if she flailed her legs, I wouldn't let go. In fact, I knew she would enjoy it.
But inside the car, with the handcuffs on, our roles were reversed. Eina leaned over me, using her body weight to seal off any escape. There was nowhere to go to begin with, but this made it absolute.
"Haaah… fuuh. Nn, hehe. You look so cute with that 'victim' face. Well then, I wonder whose 'naughty hand' this is, hiding under my blouse?"
"I-It’s nothing… I-It’s an accident!"
They say humans possess an instinct called the Id and a conscience called the Super-ego. In the past… my Super-ego occupied almost my entire being. I could only act on what I was told; everything else was evil. My mother had beaten it into me that expressing my own thoughts was a sin. I thought I had improved since being bought by Eina, but as they say, "Too much of a good thing is just as bad as too little." Because my Id had been suppressed for so long, it would frequently break free, acting on its own before I even realized it.
"Lecher."
"N-No, that’s not it…"
It wasn't "not it." My hand was under her clothes, and there was only one thing it was doing. Even though I was conscious of it, I couldn't stop. When I questioned myself, the answer was simply: It’s soft and it feels good, so I don't want to let go. The moment we arrived at the mansion, this time would end. Yet, it was being intentionally dragged out, with no sign of stopping.
"Chu… slurp… If you really think it’s so bad, I’ll give you a quiz. If you get it wrong, this time is over. If you get it right, there’s no holding back. Ready?"
"O-Oh. Bring it on!"
"What color are my panties today?"
Eina didn't playfully shorten the length of her skirts. Unless I requested it, she kept them at a standard length. There were almost no "lucky" panty flashes, which was why the boys who liked her considered her a "rare" find. I hadn't seen them today, either.
So I could get it wrong. I could, and yet.
As I lifted the skirt draped over my lap, a pair of white, lace-trimmed panties jumped into my vision.
"W-White."
"Correct. But it’s not over yet. I’m a strict teacher, you know? But since you got one right, we can continue. Here is the next question. How much do you think my bra is show-through today?"
My mind filled with carnal desire. Even the dullest person would have heard the alarm bells ringing. If this continued, I would lose my mind. My dignity as a human would be destroyed, and I would be reduced to a beast seeking only pleasure. I knew it was forbidden. But seeing the ecstatic expression on Eina’s face—the face of my first love, looking so full of expectation—my hand naturally reached out for the answer.
"…♪"
The handcuffs clicked open, and one hand was freed. Immediately, that hand dove under her skirt to seize her hips, ensuring she couldn't escape, while the other… well, there was no need to say. The answer was right in front of me.
◇
"Eina-sama. We have arrived."
"Good work. Let’s go, Keiya."
"S-Sorry. I really went too far."
"Hehe… Beast."
After doing up the five buttons of her blouse, Eina stepped out first and pulled me from the car. I thought the order should be the other way around, but since I was "property," perhaps being dragged around was more appropriate. As we passed the fountain, I noticed that Shion, who usually cleaned the grounds, was nowhere to be seen. Instead, the mansion was noisy. I made eye contact with a maid cleaning the second floor; she started to wave at me before frantically shifting into a curtsy toward Eina. I wondered if she had maintained the correct distance. Eina herself was humming a tune, seemingly oblivious.
"Did the work schedule change today? Ah, wait, that makes sense. Mutsuya Hasekura joined us, after all."
"It’s such a headache when a useless burden ends up causing more work for everyone else."
As we entered the entrance hall, Shion and Yatsuka-san were there to greet us.
"Welcome home, Eina-sama."
"Yatsuka. Where is Mutsuya Hasekura?"
"He is…"
"Ugh… guuuuuhhh… hufffffff!"
A pathetic wailing echoed across the hall. There, in a school uniform that had been reduced to rags in a single day, was undoubtedly Hasekura. It seemed whatever spirit he had last night, this morning, and at lunch had been thoroughly ground away by the maids. He was a wreck, body and soul, with tears and snot streaming down his face as he hauled a bundle of firewood on his back. The iron gate to the basement was open; he appeared to be shuttling back and forth from down there.
"Hasekura… are you okay?"
"…You bastarrrrrd! Keiyaaaaaaaa! Why the hell are you just standing there!?"
The moment he saw my face, Hasekura’s dormant rage exploded. He might have lost the will to resist the maids, but it was a different story with me. I wasn't expecting it, so I hadn't braced myself.
"No, no! You can’t use violence against Sagiri-kun. Bad boy! Bad!"
If Ayaka-san hadn't come charging out of the kitchen with a trolley, he probably would have brained me with the wood. Even empty, a metal trolley is a formidable thing. Having been involved in a "traffic accident" inside the mansion, Hasekura lay on the floor crying, firewood scattered everywhere.
"It hurts… dammit… it hurts… uuuugh. Why me…?"
"I believe I told you not to drop the wood," Yatsuka said coldly.
"Are you okay, Sagiri-kun?"
Without sparing a glance for the man she had just run over, Ayaka-san inspected my body. When I told her I was fine and he hadn't even touched me, she patted my head. "That’s good~♪" she said, her smile so genuinely relieved that it was incredibly healing.
"Don't use the chain whip yet," Eina commanded. "Shion, are the preparations ready?"
"Once this scattered wood is moved, it will be complete. …Um, there is only one trip left, and since he’s in this state, should I take over?"
"No, let Mutsuya Hasekura do it. Shion, you may return to your room and rest. Ayaka, once you’ve sent the chefs on break, you can rest too. The prep work is finished, isn't it?"
"Yes, ma'am!"
"Yatsuka, instruct the others to return to their rooms. You, however, come to my room later."
After finishing her orders, Eina pulled me up the stairs toward her room. On the way, she whispered in my ear so quietly no one else could hear.
"Shall we make a bet on whether Mutsuya Hasekura tries to run?"
"A bet?"
"Yes. I told you I’d show you I’m right. So, let’s bet. Hmm, the conditions… wait a moment. I’ll get a map of the estate."
"We have a map?"
We reached her room. As we talked, she sat on the bed and I began brushing her hair. After a moment, she moved to retrieve a map from the dresser. Since it was hard to look at while having her hair brushed, I got permission to stop for a moment.
"…It’s more of a floor plan than a map. Sorry. This place is so big it doesn't make any sense to me."
"You don't need to understand it all. Just remember that there are three ways to escape this mansion. First, the front entrance. Then, the underground waterway. And finally, the private jet located at the far end of the garden."
The "private jet"—a toy of the wealthy. I’d never used it, but I’d seen it. She had shown it to me.
"Let’s see. Let’s make it a specific guess. Which route do you think he’ll take? I’m betting he won’t escape at all, so you can pick whichever you like."
"……"
The jet route was impossible. I didn't think he could even start it, and even if he did, he’d just crash. Unless he got lucky and found a pilot to threaten… but that was a stretch.
The basement? I only went down there for the Grand Bath or the laundry, so I couldn't say. But considering he’d been worked down there all day and was currently hauling wood to the basement, he might have gained some familiarity with the layout.
"No, he’ll just go through the front door."
This wasn't some multi-year prison break; if he ran, it would be an impulse. Fortunately, this place wasn't surrounded by thick prison walls. Just getting out was easy enough. The iron gates probably weren't electrified, and if you're desperate to run, your body moves before your brain. The easiest access route was the obvious one.
Eina rolled up the map and ordered me to resume brushing her hair.
"I see. If Keiya gets it right… I’ll have to give you a reward."
"A-A reward…?"
"Hehe. What’s this? Are you getting excited? It’s just a little diversion, so I haven't thought of what it is yet, but I wonder if I can live up to your expectations. Though, I think he’ll simply give up and become obedient."
Where does she get that confidence?
It was a rare miscalculation for Eina. Looking at him, he was at his breaking point. It wouldn't be strange at all if he thought he’d be killed unless he escaped at the first opportunity. In reality, she probably wouldn't kill him. Mutsuya Hasekura still had Value. Even Yatsuka-san hadn't used her chain whip; they were still going easy on him.
"By the way, what exactly was he being made to do? I hope you weren't just making him do meaningless labor."
"As if. Why would I make someone I bought do something so meaningless…? That’s enough brushing. Give me a foot massage. I might be doing some walking later."
"Walking…?"
I didn't quite understand that, but it was an order. I got off the bed and sat by her legs as she stretched them out, slowly removing her socks. Since she hadn't bathed yet, there was a faint scent of sweat, but that was no reason to stop. I took her feet in my hands and began to knead them.
"Nn… Ah… Come to think of it, tomorrow is a holiday. It’s already night, so our time in the sunroom should be tomorrow instead. I’m sorry, even though I told you we’d do it today."
"No, it’s fine. You’re protecting me, aren't you?"
The only reason she had to change her plans was that Hasekura was still being aggressive toward me. Even with the maids keeping watch, we wouldn't be able to relax. Eina had changed her schedule solely to ensure I had a perfect, blissful time.
She really is kind.
I’ll say it clearly: Ouhouin Eina is an angelic girl. She cares for me so deeply. If I had to throw away my life just to meet a girl like her, I would have no regrets.
"Thanks for everything, Eina. I’m glad you’re my master."
"…Hehe. You can praise me even more, you know."
"I’m happy you bought me. Hahaha."
As I kissed her foot, Eina stopped moving as if surprised, then lifted the foot I had kissed.
"…Your feelings reached me, Keiya. I love you, too."
Knock, knock.
"Eina-sama. Yatsuka Tsurugi, reporting as requested."
"Ah, you’re here already… the timing is poor, but fine… I’m opening it now, wait there."
She pressed a button by the shelf, and the sound of the lock disengaging echoed. I opened the door to find Yatsuka-san standing there like a doll, a laptop tucked under her arm.
"Come in."
"Excuse me."
The moment Yatsuka-san stepped inside, the lock clicked shut again. Eina didn't call her to the bed but guided her to the desk in the back. There were only two chairs, so Eina took the other one. I remained on the floor beneath the desk, continuing the foot massage.
"I didn't even say anything, yet you knew exactly what I needed."
"I have a fair grasp of your needs, Eina-sama. Besides, this time… I have a bone to pick as well."
"Indeed. To mock Keiya is an unpardonable act. For every crime, a punishment—that is the common sense of society. Is the mic connected?"
"No. I haven't pressed the switch yet. I thought you might want to see the footage first."
"I see. Keiya, do you want to watch too?"
"Watch what?"
Careful not to bump my head on the desk, I peered at the laptop screen. It showed a camera feed of Hasekura’s private room.
He seemed to have hurt his back in the earlier "accident." He was clutching it, letting out wordless groans. On the desk were provided cup noodles and a retort curry pouch. The man who had been so arrogant was now only leaking weak-willed whimpers.
"I want to go home… my house… the police… I don't have my phone… uuuugh. It hurts… it hurts… ugh. Sniff…"
"Ah…"
"How strange, talking about wanting to go 'home.' His home is right here," Yatsuka noted.
"Exactly. If not here, where on earth does he think he is going? There is no such place for him anymore."
His land and house had been sold; his family had moved away to who-knows-where. This wasn't a taunt; it was a simple statement of fact. This was the only place he had left to go. Eina’s profile looked cold, yet she seemed to be enjoying herself immensely.
I didn't think Hasekura was so bad that he deserved this, and I felt a bit sorry for him. But as Eina’s property, there was nothing I could do. It was his own fault for not reading the contract properly.
"Turn on the mic."
"Yes, ma'am."
"Good evening, Hasekura-kun. You look quite miserable. How is life treating you here?"
Judging by the camera, the voice reached him. He looked around frantically; it was likely echoing through the entire room. Tears streaming down his face, Hasekura knelt as if in prayer.
"E-Eina! Please, let me go home… I-I won't tell anyone about this place! I’m begging youuuuuuuu!"
"Your home is right here, but looking at your face, you seem dissatisfied with your life. But don't worry. You still have Value. As long as you have Value, you can start over as many times as you like. Every child living here polishes their own Value to survive. So, if you can change your heart, I’m sure your Value will rise. Your current Value is five million… it’s a shame it’s dropped to a tenth of the original price, but since you sold yourself to me through Keiya, I believe you can make a comeback."
"…………Heh."
"Heh?"
"DON'T SCREW WITH MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!"
Why had he been pushed this far? The cause was clear, but his behavior on screen was undoubtedly a contributing factor. Hasekura wasn't merely in his room; he was incarcerated. While there were no literal iron bars, being locked in an unknown room in an unknown house was much the same. He wasn't even permitted to leave the room of his own volition. He hammered frantically on the door, overturned chairs, and hurled sheets against the walls; no description fit better than a man whose thread of patience had finally snapped, descending into madness.
"You piece of shit! Just 'cause you're a little cute, you think you can act all high and mighty! Police! I’m calling the police on this! Who the hell do you think you are, playing princess!? Money, money, value, value—that's all you talk about! A human's value, you hear me!? You can't buy it with money! It’s precious! We were taught in school that life is precious! That value is way more important than money! And you... you just talk about money—."
"Can't buy it with money...."
"That’s right! No matter how much you pay, I’m not the kind of guy who should be treated like this! If you get it, then hurry up and—."
"Oh dear, it seems I’ve made a terrible misunderstanding.."
The microphone clicked off. Both Yatsuka-san and I understood our mistress's values all too well. To Ouhouin Eina, anything of value can be bought with money. There are no exceptions. To her, anything that cannot be converted into a monetary value is equally worthless; furthermore, she respects a person’s own self-reported value first and foremost. Just as there were girls working here for a million yen, Hasekura had been bought for fifty million.
I wonder how much it would take to buy you?
Back then, just before I was bought, I couldn't answer because I didn't understand the meaning of the words. But Hasekura had answered. In an overtly wrong direction.
"It seems Mutsuya Hasekura was worthless after all. In that case, there's no reason to keep him here," Eina said.
"Yes. Shall I dispose of him?" Yatsuka asked.
"Even trash has its uses as trash. I just press this button, correct?"
After confirming with Yatsuka, Eina pressed a key on the laptop without hesitation. In the next instant, smoke filled the screen, obscuring the camera. The audio feed seemed to have been cut as well; I had no idea what was happening on the other side.
"W-What did you do?"
"I simply filled the room with smoke. Whether he uses it to flee or not, I cannot say. Regardless—let us move. I wondered why my frustration hadn't subsided, but if he was worthless, it makes sense. This is the perfect opportunity. I can show everyone what happens to the 'worthless'."
Eina had me put my socks back on, then pulled me by the hand out of the room.
"Now then, let us leave it to heaven's will. It's common sense for trash to stay quiet until it's thrown in the bin. I wonder if he even has the spirit to attempt an escape... heh ♪."
◇
Mutsuya Hasekura’s life had always been a success. He might have had minor setbacks, but he had succeeded so much he couldn't even remember them. He was a star player in the soccer club he loved, and he was the undisputed number one in the "Boys Most Likely to be Popular" class ranking. He had been confessed to countless times, and during sports festivals, he was a hero.
—So why is this happening to me!?
Just as he thought the room was filling with smoke, the door opened and a voice called out.
"Hurry and escape!"
"Eh?"
"Just go, hurry!"
It was a voice he’d never heard. It wasn't any of the maids who had attacked him. Was the smoke a distraction to cover his exit...?
I can't let a chance like this slip by!
The logic didn't matter. He had to get out before the smoke cleared. It was a race for speed. He didn't know the layout of the mansion, but he would run for the front. Fortunately, he was a man and they were all women. He had the advantage in physical ability. If anyone got in his way, he’d kick them aside, escape, and run to the police.
He slipped through the iron gate that had been left open and into the hallway; the mansion, previously so noisy, was now eerily silent. The voice that helped him was gone, but it made sense: they helped him precisely because the mansion was in this state.
Because he had been worked like a dog, he remembered the path simply enough. With no one around, this was his only chance.
"…Ugh. Guuu…."
Because his entire body had been battered, he could only move by dragging himself along. He had burns all over from the stun batons. Until a moment ago, his legs had felt so heavy he didn't even want to move, but now survival instinct was driving his body. More than anything, it was the whip that hurt the most. He thought a whip only hit the surface, but he didn't realize it would linger like this. His back burned. Even lying on his back in bed had been agony.
Still, if he could reach the police, he’d be saved. He was going home. He wanted to go home!
When he reached the entrance, chains were wrapped around the door handles. There was no padlock; he could unravel them if he took the time. For once, he was grateful for the "rich person" security that left much to be desired.
"Oh? Mutsuya Hasekura. I don't recall saying you could leave your room. How did you get out?"
The voice of the woman called Yatsuka came from the center of the entrance hall—at the top of the stairs. The distance was far, but it was only for an instant. Driven by the sound of footsteps slowly descending the stairs, he frantically worked to undo the chains.
Clink..
It wasn't that the chains had come loose. But he definitely heard the sound of the same material. He looked back to see the woman called Yatsuka letting her chain whip dangle from her hand. That was the source of the metallic sound.
"Hiek—!"
Open, open, open, open, open. Finally, the chains fell away and the door swung open.
The moment he leaped outside, something coiled around his left arm and jerked him to a halt. It was the chain whip Yatsuka had thrown; looking closely, the chain was lined with jagged barbs that were now digging into his arm.
"Aaaaghh! It hurts, it hurts, it hurts! Aaaaahhh!"
"Do not run. No such instructions were given," Yatsuka said.
"Aaaaaagh! Stop it! No! Escape—aaaaahhh!"
Feeling the sound of flesh tearing along with his uniform, he pulled away from the restraint by sheer force and ran toward the main iron gates. Because he was running, the bleeding from his arm grew worse, but it didn't matter. He’d have the police treat it. The police. The police! Every one of these criminals would be arrested! They could all get the death penalty!
The tears wouldn't stop. It hurt so much. His footsteps were becoming unsteady. Still, he could run. All those drills in the soccer club were paying off. That experience would save his life!
Just a little more, just a little more... through the path cut through the forest, and then through the large gate with the surveillance cameras! Surveillance didn't matter! He’d just report it to the police!
"I did it! I did it, I did it, I did itttttt!"
He returned to the familiar city streets. It was summer, and even at night, it was still fairly bright outside. He didn't know where the police box was, but if he headed toward the station—.
"Police! Police, help! Police!"
Showing his blood-soaked arm, he burst into the police box.
Ah, he had done it. He had escaped that crazy Western-style mansion.
Mutsuya Hasekura’s return to the mansion occurred ten minutes after his "escape" to the city.
"Thank you for your hard work," Yatsuka said.
"Not at all. We were just following orders from above. Well then.."
Having finished dealing with the police, Yatsuka-san returned to the mansion. She was leading Hasekura, whose hands were handcuffed behind his back. Behind them, dozens of patrol cars formed a wall surrounding the house. It was a wall that would crumble as soon as he was "repatriated" to the house, but he had no way of knowing that, and with both hands bound, he couldn't run this time.
"Why! Why the hell!?"
"Yatsuka, it seems the trash has been properly collected," Eina said.
"Yes. Releasing worthless trash into the town constitutes illegal dumping. We must refrain from causing trouble for the townspeople," Yatsuka replied.
"Exactly~♪ Especially since our household produces a lot of waste! It's important not to let any trash we can process here get outside!"
Ayaka-san was saying the most terrible things with a beaming smile, though she didn't seem to realize it. When she noticed me staring at her, she gave me a wink. Standing on the landing of the entrance hall, Eina had Hijiri prepare a chair, which she used as a throne, crossing her legs and leaning back haughtily.
"Mutsuya Hasekura. I’m sorry, but it seems you’ve proven your own worthlessness, so you must be disposed of. The police are truly excellent, aren't they? Collecting trash that was accidentally dropped.."
"The police! Why are the police on the side of someone like you!? It’s wrong! Let me go home... please...."
"Is that the attitude of someone asking a favor?"
A woman stepped out from the basement, staring down at Hasekura with contempt. With her wavy, fluffy blonde hair fluttering, Yurie Nakasato appeared, leaning on a staff. When I caught her eye, she raised a hand and said, "Ohisa!" It hadn't actually been that long, but that was how she greeted everyone besides Eina.
"The one sitting there is Ouhouin Eina-sama. She is our Master, and yours too. And Keiya-kun's, of course. Trash or not, at least show some respect. Isn't honorific speech required when asking for a favor~?"
"Wh... who the hell would use honorifics! We're classmates! Classmates! I don't need to! Keiya isn't doing it either!"
Yurie circled behind me, hugging me so my head was cradled between her breasts, and pointedly placed her hand on my cheek.
"Keiya-kun is special. He’s different from you. Why don't you try begging for forgiveness? You’re going to die like this anyway.."
"Yurie-san. Your hair is in my eye, it's itchy," I said.
"Ah, sorry~."
The maids living in the mansion were all gathered. Some were watching from their half-open doors, but most were lined up, forming a path through the entrance hall. Eina sat on the landing like a queen, looking down at Hasekura.
The man, who had been enraged by the exchange, seemed to realize this situation was beyond his control. He slowly bent his knees into a formal seiza and, with his hands still bound behind him, pathetically pressed his head against the floor.
"P-Please forgive me, Eina-sama. I don't want to die... please. Please! Please!"
"—Can you swear to do anything for me?"
"…I swear! I swear! I’ll do anything! Please forgive meeeee!"
"Then die.."
It seemed she had no interest in his pleas for life from the start. Eina clapped her hands twice, and Ayaka-san rolled out a trolley covered with a white cloth from the storage room. It was two sizes larger than the ones used for serving food. Since she looked like she was struggling to push it, I immediately went over and helped her.
"Sagiri-kun. Thank you! Can I impose on you a little longer~?"
"…Sure, but—."
"Then please hold it steady! I have to load that trash onto it!"
"No! Noooooo!"
"Yes, yes. Yatsuka-san, please hold him down~."
Without losing her smile, Ayaka-san pressed a gun that looked like a nail gun against Hasekura’s shoulder and fired. His body jerked violently, but his movements and screams gradually diminished—and within ten seconds, he lost consciousness.
"Is that a tranquilizer gun?"
"Correct! It’s extremely potent—so potent that the aftereffects are severe, but that doesn't matter for trash that's about to be disposed of!"
Then, with the help of several maids, Hasekura was loaded onto the trolley, and Ayaka-san pushed me aside to move it again.
"I’m heading to the basement via the hidden elevator. Everyone else, return to your rooms, and Sagiri-kun, please follow Eina-sama!"
Since she put it that way, I asked Eina to lead the way, and she took me immediately.
The basement. Turning left at a fork on the way to the Grand Bath, there was a ladder. Going down further, there was a maze-like series of paths—I didn't know the way beyond that.
Eina held the flashlight, and I was just being pulled along by the hand. When we entered a private room and the wall lights were turned on, there was a glass partition in front of us. On the other side was the semi-naked Hasekura lying on the trolley and Ayaka-san wearing an apron.
Next to her was a giant cauldron like something out of a fairy tale, with the contents bubbling away. It was boiling water. The firewood piled at the base and the intensity of the flames told the story.
I realized Hasekura had prepared his own execution device with his own hands. Before we arrived, he had been moved from the trolley to a device resembling an operating table. It was designed to change angles at the flip of a switch. Hasekura was currently asleep, restrained vertically.
"I’ll wake him up for now!"
Ayaka-san took out a stun baton and discharged it against his stomach.
"Gah! Haguguuugaaaaaaa!"
His consciousness, which had been put to sleep by the tranquilizer, was yanked back. I couldn't tell if it was the aftereffects, but Hasekura’s eyes were hollow, and he looked almost half-dreaming.
"Can you see the monitor, Mutsuya Hasekura?"
Reacting to the voice over the speaker, his face looked up. I see; apparently the glass in front of us was a magic mirror, and he couldn't see us.
"We are about to dispose of your worthless self, but it seems Keiya has something he wants to say to you at the end.."
"Eh, me?"
I was bewildered as the microphone was handed to me. I hadn't heard anything about this. When I appealed with my eyes that I didn't understand, Eina whispered in my ear.
"You were worried about him the whole time, weren't you? You probably want to clear up any misunderstandings, so just say that.."
"Ah... I see. Thanks, Eina. For being so thoughtful.."
We shared a quick, passing kiss before I gripped the microphone. With Eina and Yatsuka-san to my left and right, and Hijiri and Yurie-san sitting behind me, I felt unusually nervous, but I did want to clear up the misunderstandings. I didn't like him looking at me as if I were the cause of his eternal misfortune.
"Umm. Hasekura. There was something I wanted to tell you. I thought about staying quiet since you seemed to be misunderstanding things on your own, but I was bought by Eina before I even started high school. I’ve lived in this environment much longer than you. That’s why I won't help you, and I can't help you.."
"…Don't... screw with me. Don't screw with me. Then you... how much... were you...."
"I’ll tell you that too, since it’s the end. I don't know my current Value, but I was bought by Eina for three hundred million yen. That’s the reason our treatment is different. I’m sorry about that. I think I should have told you at the start. But I won't apologize for the events that led to this. After all, you were happy about it, weren't you? Whether I’m at fault or not is just a retrospective argument based on the fact that you're about to be killed. I’m not telling you to 'be better.' If you had just maintained the Value you first presented, this place would surely have been heaven.."
"DON'T SCREW WITH MEEEEEEEE!"
"Ohhh—."
Even though the tranquilizer hadn't fully worn off, Hasekura was thrashing and struggling to break his restraints.
"If the police are useless too! I’ll kill you! I’m gonna kill you! Let me out! You hear me! Keiyaaaaa!"
"If you hadn't insulted Eina’s discerning eye, I think you would have had VIP treatment, at least at the start. By commoner standards, anyway. It was also a bad idea to only skim the contract. That’s why I told you to run. It’s... too late now, though. Your house and land have all been sold off, and it looks like your family has gone somewhere else.."
"…Eh…?"
A silence, as if cold water had been dashed over his boiling head. He didn't seem to understand my words, but that was natural. Legally, it was impossible for an individual’s power to reach this far.
But what was the reality? Ouhouin Eina could interfere with the state. She was forgiven even if she ignored the law. That was the reality.
"Since this morning, you had no home to return to. The police are on Eina’s side too; you had no choice but to adapt. As... as I said earlier, I’m Eina’s property too, so I can't help you. So... if you struggle too much it’ll just get worse, so it's better not to resist.."
I handed the microphone back to Eina, and she delivered a cold, heartless sentence without any lingering emotion.
"Well then, I’ll leave the rest to you.."
"Yes, ma'am!"
Ayaka-san returned the platform to a horizontal position, went up a small slope over the cauldron, and set it to vertical again, releasing the restraints supporting his whole body.
"And... push!"
"U-Uwaaaaaaaaaaa!"
Splash. The sound of a person falling. The cauldron was larger than imagined; to get out by oneself, one would have to grab the rim and pull themselves up by force, but since the entire cauldron was so hot, that would mean severe burns on the palms. For Hasekura, who was bleeding from one arm, it was an impossible feat.
Because he was thrashing, his breathing was ragged, and his body wouldn't float. As he reached into the void, hoping for a spider's thread, a large lid appeared above him. She intended to seal the cauldron with it. Until Hasekura died.
"There we go. Well then, it’s about time for us to say goodbye! Please pray that you’ll be of more use to Eina-sama in your next life~."
It took less than thirty minutes for Hasekura’s disposal to be completed. No, to be precise, his body would be slowly dissolved at the optimal temperature for bacteria to flourish, then curry powder and spices would be added to mask the smell to make stew and dispose of it.
"I’d feel bad for the disposal contractors if I threw away a human body as it is!" Ayaka-san said with a carefree smile. Of course, that task wouldn't be done by one of the maids, but by a girl who had self-reported a Value of one million yen. I knew of her existence, but I’d never met her; if she was doing work like that in the basement, it made sense that we wouldn't meet.
"Good work, everyone. Especially Ayaka, your handling of the body disposal was wonderful. I’m sure the other girls were watching from the cameras in their rooms, but worthless things are all disposed of equally, so you’d better not let your guard down. And Ayaka. I’d like to give you a reward for your work this time—."
"Eh, really!? In that case, I want to take a bath alone with Sagiri-kun!"
"—I’ve changed my mind. Four hundred million yen.."
"I’ll pay!"
"…Eh?"
And so, for some reason, my rights were sold without my consent, and I ended up taking a bath with Ayaka-san in the Grand Bath.
"Nuffuffu~♪ You’re still a boy today, aren't you, Sagiri-kun~♪ Even though we’ve bathed together many times, aren't you used to it yet?"
"B-But... Ayaka-san is cute. I can't get used to this no matter how many times we do it!"
Since my companion wasn't Eina, she wouldn't say anything even if I closed my eyes. Perhaps that’s why I found myself opening them. My gaze was sucked in, and I was entranced. I wanted to ask something that might become very solemn, but it all flew away.
Despite my beast-like gaze, Ayaka-san didn't try to hide her body, even as she blushed. While bathing, she pressed her body against mine and whispered in my ear constantly; I was so anxious I thought I should wash up and get out immediately, but the maid wouldn't allow it. I couldn't refuse her offer to wash my body.
"I’ll wash every nook and cranny for you~!"
"Y-You don't have to do so much!"
"No, no, don't worry about it~. Actually, the person in charge of disposal is usually chosen by lottery, but this time I volunteered for it myself.."
"…Eh?"
I tried to gauge Ayaka-san’s expression through the mirror, but it was perfectly obscured by the foam dripping from my head. I couldn't tell. All I could see was from the face down.
"When you were insulted, Sagiri-kun, I was just so... so angry I thought I’d go crazy myself. If he was going to keep living like that, I was planning to poison him at some point. Eina-sama would have been angry if I did that, so it was a good thing he was an idiot!"
"…I didn't think I was insulted that much. But thank you. Though, if Ayaka-san were insulted, I might have punched him too.."
Ah, a maid through and through. Just having my head washed felt good. I’d never felt that way washing myself. It was her expert finger-work that made me think so. The sensation of her stroking my scalp was smooth and ticklish.
"If there’s an itchy spot, please let me know! This Ayaka Akabane will make either Eina-sama or Sagiri-kun feel good!"
"Yes.."
When I first found myself in this situation, I was far beyond just being suspicious; if I hadn't been holding Eina’s hand, I wouldn't have been able to wash my body properly.
I concentrated all my nerves on the single point of contact with her hand, and only then was I okay. Since there isn't a single maid living here who hasn't seen me naked, I’ve gotten completely used to it... is something I have no intention of saying.
Something embarrassing is always embarrassing. I shouldn't be the one to say it, but meeting Eina caused my life's clock to start moving normally. My adolescence arrived much later than most people's, and it arrived in this abnormal space; I couldn't even lie and say I wasn't looking at anyone but Eina in a sexual way—that would be like some enlightened saint.
"If there’s an itchy spot, please do say so. I say it all the time, but there’s no need to hesitate~."
If Eina had said 'no,' I might have tried my best not to look at them sexually. But she didn't specifically forbid it or act jealous, simply because the maids were 'property'. I didn't know if it was because of her overwhelming confidence as a wealthy person or for some other reason.
"What part of Eina-sama do you like, Sagiri-kun?"
"I-Is 'everything' not okay?"
"Ehhh, that’s cheating! It’s weird to like everything. It’s just the two of us here. So? What do you like? Is it... Her chest, like you’ve been looking at mine in the mirror for a while now?"
"I’m sorry! I didn't mean to!"
"I wonder how many times we’ve had this conversation~ Hehehe, you really are a mysterious person. You hide your own desires, but when asked what part of the girl you love you like, you say you like everything. How greedy!"
"…It’s the same as with Hasekura, the emotion of 'dislike' just doesn't well up in me easily. Of course I don't like him, and if the only scales are 'like' or 'dislike' then I’d dislike him. But if there’s a range between like and dislike, I want to place him in a more detailed spot. But for the person I love, I want to love them with everything I have! Eina is my benefactor, my master, my friend, my lover... that’s why I love everything about her.."
I wouldn't say such pretentious things as this being a pure love without ulterior motives. Not that. Just being touched by Eina stimulated my instincts; in fact, you could even say I was dominated by ulterior motives. If someone said that, I wouldn't be able to argue.
But even so, it didn't change the fact that I loved her. I was once on the verge of becoming a philosophical zombie, but because Eina was there, because she bought me, I was able to regain my humanity. I liked her body, her heart, her face, her hair, her position. I liked everything about Ouhouin Eina.
The fact that I loved Eina was the only bit of independence I held at my core. I loved her not because someone told me to, but according to my own heart.
"…How should I put it, you really do love Eina-sama. No, no, I know there is no lie in that feeling. But your greed lies in the fact that you feel similarly toward many of the maids living in this mansion besides Eina-sama, doesn't it? Of course Eina-sama is number one, but... hehe. Sagiri-kun, a person who makes people feel that way is generally called a 'lover of female bodies,' you know?"
"I-I’m sorry.."
"Hehehe~ Always apologizing is cheating. Living honestly is a very difficult thing, after all. Please stay as a pure person who gets all flustered just from interacting with us.."
Taking advantage of being alone, Ayaka-san wrapped her hands from my back to my waist, pressing her body against mine and whispering in my ear.
"…I love you, Sagiri-kun. If Eina-sama hadn't bought you, I would have been the one to imprison you.."
"And why are you hunched over like that?"
"N-No... I... it just suddenly started hurting... ugh.."
When I returned to the bedroom with Eina, she questioned me the moment the door closed. Ayaka-san’s hands were expert, and it was no lie that it felt good. Ulterior motives aside, it was the best bath.
"…Did it feel good?"
"…………."
"Keiya.."
"Y-Yes... it felt good...."
"—As a reward, I should have raised the price even more than four hundred million. Well, no matter. You’ll be bathing with me from now on anyway.."
Preparations for bed were finished while we were in the basement. All that was left was to sleep. When I was invited to the bed and hopped right in, she did the unusual thing of drawing the curtains herself.
"Now then, I lost the bet. I never thought I’d be wrong.."
"A-Ah, about that... well, he didn't actually escape, so maybe you won.."
"The moment he stepped off the grounds, it was your win. I have to give you a reward, just like Ayaka. Don't worry, I won't take any money. You’ve already paid enough... with that Value of yours.."
Wishes are free.
Surely Ouhouin Eina would use her power to make any wish a reality. I had fantasized about various things in case I won, and I intended to say them if nothing else had happened.
The problem was that because I had been in the bath with Ayaka-san right before, my head was filled with pink thoughts.
When I voiced my wish, Eina listened with a satisfied look and reached inside her nightgown. Something moved under her clothes and fell to her waist.
"No matter how perverted you are—I love you, and that’s why I’m doing this. Have confidence. You’re the number one boy in the world chosen by this Ouhouin Eina.."
Guided by Eina’s hand, my left hand was led to the lower part of her nightgown. I won't say more; I won't tell. It was all something I had wished for.
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