My Childhood Friend, who became a National Idol, moved next door to my Run-down Apartment [Dropped]

“Does Mitsuki lack the ability to take care of herself?”

“Yes. When she lived in the dormitory, the idol management was mainly handled by the managers and staff, so it wasn’t that important. However, it’s highly likely that things have turned out to be unfortunate now.”

Uttering this with a slight hesitancy over the phone was Mitsuki’s manager Shirai-san.

Even so, there’s no need for them to know about the condition of her personal room…

“Well, isn’t it okay? It’s not like it causes any serious problems, right?”

“I randomly encountered her calling my name in the middle of the night, and I was called to the dormitory for that. Also, since there were no sound sources, I ended up helping endlessly to find CDs in her room. And, because her eating habits are so disorderly, I’m always worried about her health…”

“…So, there are actual consequences.”

“It feels like a calm before the storm when nothing is happening right now. We want to take the initiative here. Kazuki-kun, sorry to bother you, but if you can confirm, could you please do so? Not many people can enter Mitsuki-san’s room besides you and me. I’m swamped with administrative work for the next live performance…”

It has been about a month since I took on the role of Mitsuki’s private manager for “TRUE MIRAGE.”

Nothing much has changed in her life since then.

In a little while, once we get permission from the higher-ups, it seems that I’ll be able to use Star Planet’s studio freely with Mitsuki.

Until then, my main role is to be Mitsuki’s guardian.

I never imagined that my first job would be investigating Mitsuki’s living conditions.

On the other side of the phone, I can hear the busy movements, such as “Nezu-san, have you contacted Nishikawa-san for the new song meeting?” and “Shirai-san, you have a call from Akamatsu-san at the live hall on extension 3.”

“Kazu-kun? Who’s that on the phone…?”

For some reason, Mitsuki is napping on my sofa again today.

She crawls out and stretches her head out from the sofa.

It looks like her eyelids might close again any second.

It feels good to have sunlight and wind at the same time.

I understand that.

But this is my place, you know?

Reprimanding Mitsuki with a single word as “Shirai-san,” the conversation continues.

“For now, I understand. Well, it’s hard to believe that Mitsuki would be like that.”

“It’s all part of the manager’s duties, so I appreciate your help. Mitsuki is the type to try her best without relying on others, especially when it comes to those close to her.”

“Rather than breaking down without relying on anyone, it’s definitely better.”

“Hehe~, that’s right. As Mitsuki’s childhood friend and manager, you’ve become her emotional support. I could never be that close to her. Well then.”

With a smile that can be felt even over the phone, Shirai-san hangs up.

“Mitsuki—”

“…Yes, your Mitsuki is here.”

Mitsuki, who was clearly half-asleep, waved her hand in the air.

“Shirai-san contacted me. She wants us to check your living quarters since you’re living alone. Shall we go together, or should I go alone and get it done quickly?”

Turning around the sofa, my childhood friend lies there in a casual parka and denim shorts.

Her glossy black hair was facing the wrong way, exposing her pure white forehead.

Somehow, she seems far too defenseless like this…

“Let’s sleep a bit more here. The key is inside the back pocket.”

“Yeah, yeah, got it. Look, you can’t reach it, so stand up.”

“Nope. Carry me and get it for me.”

“Are you a child…?”

Ignoring my sarcastic remark entirely, Mitsuki stretches her hands out, exuding an enchanting aura.

Even during our school days, she had a tendency to be a bit clingy, but who would have thought it would escalate to this extent…

I put my hands around Mitsuki’s back as she lay down, raising her hips.

“Nnn~ Muah~…” Mitsuki lets out an incomprehensible sigh.

The softness peculiar to a girl’s touch filled my palms, her intermittent breath tickled my ears, and the sweet scent of shampoo entered my nose.

This is all part of the job. Suppressing my worldly desires. If anything were to go wrong here, Mitsuki’s idol life would be over. Her dream of reaching the top would vanish in an instant.

Stay composed, Kazuki Fujieda.

Destroy your own desires, Kazuki Fujieda!

I don’t remember the sensations that followed.

When I noticed, I had the key to Mitsuki’s room in my hand.

That means my rationality must have worked properly.

“…Tch.”

Mitsuki lowered her body, looking slightly bored.

Of course, she’s a top idol now.

A single scandal involving Mitsuki would cause trouble for Shirai-san, the other members, the agency, and all the fans across the country.

I don’t want my cute childhood friend to become an enemy to so many people.

“Let’s get this over with quickly.”

I lightly stroked Mitsuki’s head, who has started to doze off again, and then left my room.