"... and that's what happened." On the next day of my part-time job, when there were no customers around, I decided to discuss Miyanoshita's situation with the master and my senpai. "I can't believe that a grade schooler is involved in something like that..." "As for me, I am more shocked about Yuuki-kun being involved in such a situation." "Um... sorry, Master. For keeping quite." I hadn't filled the master in about Miyanoshita. "No, it's fine. Given the nature of the issue, I understand why you'd want to keep it under wraps." "Thank you." "So, regarding the stalker issue, it's probably wiser to assume there is one rather than optimistically hoping there isn't." "Yes, if it turns out there isn't one, we can simply laugh it off, but if that's not the case... it could potentially lead to the worst-case scenario. It's always better to err on the side of caution." The worst case scenario. The mental image of it nearly surfaced in my mind, and I quickly suppressed it. I don't want to imagine or think about such things, not even hypothetically. "It's tough to depend on the police, but we're not entirely helpless. Even just increased patrols are helpful, and I'm sure they'd offer some advice. It won't be for nothing, so we should definitely consult them." "I see." "Also, it's wise to keep a personal alarm ready and to have several of them, for school and for going out. Choose the loudest ones you can find. And teach her to run away immediately after setting one off." "Hmm, yeah." "And, perhaps carry a can of bear spray. It could be useful to fend off an attacker in an emergency." "Is that really okay...?" "It's actually not allowed. But she is probably not the type to pull pranks, and at this moment, her safety is what's most important. If the perpetrator gets what's coming to him because of the bear spray, it's his own fault." "That makes sense." This conversation is enlightening. I'm glad I asked my senpai. "Also, we need to teach her the basics thoroughly, like not to walk alone in deserted areas and not to follow strangers... It might seem common sense, but there are many things that elementary students might not know yet." "That's very enlightening... but you seem surprisingly well-informed, Senpai?" "I'm planning to work in a daycare someday. By researching about children, I've naturally picked up this knowledge." Now that I think about it, my senpai loves kids. So much so that she sometimes secretly give treats to the kids without the Master knowing. Even when she is found out, she just does it again. Well, the good service has made the shop popular, which ultimately increases sales, so the Master lets it slide with a wry smile. "All that's left is for you, Yuuki-kun, to protect her properly." "Yes... you're right." But I can't help but hesitate. "Wouldn't my presence provoke the stalker?" "That's possible, yes." The Master confirms it without hesitation. "Stalkers initially fixate their obsession on their target. But if they see another man around, they might try to get rid of him, believing he poses a threat to her." "..." "So it's effective in terms of protecting the victim, right? It can divert the aggressor's focus. In other words, it's like being a decoy." The master states this plainly, yet he's discussing something astonishing. Basically, he's telling me to become a shield for Miyanoshita. "That's my proposal, what do you think?" "I'll do it." "...That was quick." This time, it was the master who was surprised. "Is that out of affection for her?" "I do like her as a friend. As for romantic feelings, I'm not sure yet."

"So why agree to it?" "Because that's what friends are for." I can't say I'm ready to risk my life or anything that serious... But if a friend is in trouble, I want to do something to help. If there's anything I can do, I want to try. That's all there is to it. "I see. That's a beautiful answer." "It's very much like you, Yuuki-kun." The master and my senpai are smiling. "However, this strategy is just a temporary measure, solving the problem at its root will be tough. Convincing the stalker to stop is unlikely to work with conventional methods..." "And without them actually doing something, getting them arrested will be difficult." "To prevent anything from happening, I'll stay with Miyanoshita as much as possible... That's the best approach right now, isn't it?" It's irritating. Luring out the criminal and catching them in the act... I think it's quite a standard plot in fiction. However, if mishandled, Miyanoshita could be put in danger. Failure is not an option; it's out of the question. Moreover, it's not certain that we can fend them off successfully. Conversely, there's a chance we might be the ones getting beaten. It's all speculative, but if failure equals danger for Miyanoshita, we have to be extra cautious. Any action should only be taken after we've gathered more information. And only when we can be sure of success. "But, this is quite the pickle." "What is?" "It's fine to be with Miyanoshita, but where should we meet up?" I'd like to meet up all the way at the elementary school. But a high schooler showing up at an elementary school every day... Wouldn't that raise suspicions? Should I explain the situation to the elementary school and ask for their understanding? No. That would still cause issues, as I'd have to explain my relationship with Miyanoshita. And even if we lied about being siblings, we'd be found out quickly. "Then, why not make use of this place?" "Eh?" "'Amaryllis' is near the elementary school the little one goes to. It's right on the main street, so it's always crowded, and I doubt anything will happen on the way here." "But, surely that's..." "It's not a bother at all." Is that something senpai should be answering for? "It's also not a problem for me." "Um..." After a moment of thought, it seemed like the best solution. "Well, we are in your debt." "Sure, you can count on me." The master gives a kind smile. It's a smile that you can count on. Besides, I've learned so much from my senpai. I'm nothing but thankful. Okay. To repay the kindness of the master and senpai, I must do everything to protect Miyanoshita. That's my duty right now.