Mob Yandere

Chapter 190-4

[Part 4/5]

"Originally, we were raised to fulfill roles like that... I mean, I know our basic needs are met, so I shouldn't complain, but... you know? It would be nice to have at least a somewhat decent partner, right?"

She speaks as if trying to cover up her feelings, blushing, resigning, and trying to convince me at the same time.

"It's inevitable that we'll end up with someone eventually, and we'll have to deal with various partners, but... at least for the first one, I want it to be someone proper, you know?"

"A lowly servant is your 'proper' one?"

"Comparative context... yeah."

When I point this out with a puzzled expression, Hana mutters with a look of exasperation. It's the most emotional expression I've seen from her so far. We both hesitate, looking at each other. Is this really where we stand?

"So, you're saying you want me to believe this? Really?"

"I really hope you can believe me... that's the honest truth."

"And I'd like a little mercy too. I'm serious about that."

The responses from the two of them to my doubts were more earnest than the words suggested. I could feel the deep struggle they were experiencing. They continued.

"Well, I'm explaining this because I could really use some sympathy. If I could get some help, that'd be great, but it's not like I personally dislike you, Household Member Coordinator."

"Me too, I've been helped. My mistakes were defended. I owe a debt of gratitude."

"But honestly, treating your first experience like a cheap service feels like selling yourself short."

"Is that so?"

"Really?"

"Oh, yeah..."

Their words and reactions made me acutely aware of our differing values. Or maybe it's just that I'm too naïve? Given my line of work, the risk of being taken advantage of is always there. Being sold in a brothel isn't uncommon in remote areas. It's quite common for night workers to sell their services for a pittance. There are also concubines. In some places, even if the villages are different, there are traditions that loosen moral standards during festivals... Historically, that culture has often been quite loose. After all, this is an eroge world.

"..."

"Um, Household Member Coordinator?"

"Huh? Um...?"

""Can we get some mercy?""

The two of them called out to me after a moment of silence, leaning in closer as if to gauge my reaction. They looked at me with hope and longing...

"...That's not possible."

That was my firm rejection after a brief silence.

"...Understood. Then, I'll give up."

"Yeah. Sorry for the trouble."

They accepted my words without resistance. Kaya, who had been close to me, pulled away and splashed into the water. I felt a slight sense of loneliness as her warmth left my back. Hana also moved away from my feet in the water. �

"That was surprisingly straightforward, wasn't it? I was expecting more of a fuss."

"If it turns into a big deal, the head of the household will get angry. Plus..."

"I owe a debt of gratitude. It's not good to be a burden."

"Haha... well, if that's the case, I guess it can't be helped?"

"Phew, phew... indeed, money is important."

I don't know how they truly feel.

However, the laughter they finally managed to suppress is genuine, and on the surface, they seem to accept my words.

Deep down, they probably resigned themselves to the fate that awaits them.

A faint dark emotion lingers in their eyes...

"..."

As I observe this, a thought crosses my mind.

I really have no obligation to go that far.

But...

"...I have a suggestion."

There's no hostility or malice towards them.

We've fought together, albeit briefly.

I don't want them to suffer or be unhappy.

So, I make my proposal.

Once I see their gazes turn towards me, I continue speaking.

"For some reason, it seems I've caught the attention of your family's head, right?"

"Looks like it."

"I'm being treated really well. It's unfair."

In response to my confirmation, they completely agree.

I can even sense a hint of resentment from the latter.

I brush it off with a wry smile and then get to the main point.

"I'm always ready to welcome guests. So... perhaps you might accept a few of my whims?"

"Whims? What do you mean?"

"Ah! I understand!"

It was Hana who first grasped what I was trying to say.

I leaned in to whisper to my partner.

"Oh! I see! A reservation!"

"That was a bit too obvious, but..."

Kaya nodded as if she understood.