The reason why this genius little girl who doesn't get along with anyone, wants to be only spoiled by me - Episode 12

Episode 12: Things That Bother You When You’re a Child

On the way from the classroom to the principal’s office, asI got curious and decided to ask why Hime ate lunch there.

“Actually, there’s no special reason for it. As I was simply told that I could use it, I decided to take them up on their offer. Honestly, I don’t really care where I eat. But given they went out of their way for that, I felt it would be rude to refuse”.

“I see… That’s a very mature reason.”

“I think it’s just a matter of ‘convenience.’ Well, I’ve grown used to being treated specially like this… Oh, was that a little arrogant of me to say?”

“No, no, that wasn’t arrogant at all.”

The idea of Hime being treated specially by the principal didn’t come as a surprise.

In fact, I thought it made perfect sense. For someone as extraordinary as Hoshimiya Hime to attend their school, it was only natural for people/authorities to want her to feel as comfortable as possible.

That’s just how exceptional the existence called Hoshimiya Hime was after all.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to, but sometimes it comes across as if I’m bragging. If that happens, please let me know, okay? I, no matter what, wouldn’t want Yohei-kun to dislike me.”

“I really don’t think you’re bragging at all. Besides… Is there really anything that would make me dislike you to begin with? I wonder.”

If anything, there was a much higher chance of me disappointing or being disliked by her.

As far as me disliking her? That wasn’t even a possibility. Given how honest and kind Hime is, after all, there is just nothing that can make anyone dislike her.

“…Ehehe. Hearing Yohei-kun say that, makes me feel so much better and exalted. Thank you very much.”

“Does it? If it cheers you up, then I’m glad nonetheless.”

And so, as we continued walking with that exchange, we soon arrived at the principal’s office.

Since it was right next to the staff room, passing teachers gave us curious looks, but no one said anything. They were probably being mindful around Hime.

And the principal wasn’t any different as well.

“Oh! Miss Hoshimiya, I’m terribly sorry. Since there was a meeting earlier, things got a little delayed, I will tidy everything up and leave the room right away—apologies.”

When I knocked on the door, the principal hurriedly came out, bowing repeatedly to Hime before stepping aside to let us in.

Even though there was a grandparent-grandchild age gap between them, the principal spoke to Hime with utmost politeness. That alone spoke volumes about how exceptional her existence meant for him as well.

“Nope, I’m the one being allowed to use the principal’s office, so there’s no need to apologize.  after all,”

“Nonsense! Miss Hoshimiya, you have no reason to feel hesitant. After all. you’ve decided to attend our school, so it’s only natural for us to provide at least this much!”

“…Is that so.”

Oops.

Hime looked slightly exasperated.

It’s just a hunch. She probably didn’t like people acting overly formal or deferential around her. Perhaps because she was still a child, she found it especially irritating when adults fawned over her here and there.

That said, she also seemed to understand that saying anything back would be pointless. So, she just decided to accept and just let it slide.

“Ah, by the way, today Yohei-kun—um, my friend will be eating with me. Is it okay for him to join me in the principal’s office?”

“Eh? Your friend… I see, your friend! Of course, that’s fine. But, young man, could I have a word with you?”

“Me?”

“Yes, you. Come with me for a moment.”

Suddenly, the focus shifted to me.

I did as I was told, leaving Hime in the principal’s office and closing the door behind me.

The moment the door shut, the principal’s expression changed.

“—Make absolutely sure you don’t upset her.”

He spoke in a tone that was almost intimidating.

The stark difference in the principal’s demeanor made me finally understand why Hime had an annoyed on her face earlier.

It’s not necessarily wrong for people to change their attitude depending on who they’re dealing with.

But from a child’s perspective, this kind of calculated behavior from adults can feel incredibly unsettling and creepy instead.