In order to change the atmosphere, Ryuto decided to do something.

"So, what exactly is this gift? Since it's already been bought, might as well open it and see," he said as he handed the gift to Setofukatawagawa.

"No, this...," Setofukatawagawa hesitated.

"Since we can't return it anyway, we can figure out the money later. By the way, it might be impolite to ask directly, but can you tell me what illness you have?" Ryuto asked.

"Well, I've always had a heart condition, and it was manageable until recently when it suddenly worsened," Setofukatawagawa replied.

"I see..." Ryuto muttered with a meaningful expression. Then he immediately urged, "Let's open the gift first."

Although Setofukatawagawa had some concerns, he ultimately opened it. The gift was wrapped exquisitely with multiple layers. Each layer revealed another layer. Finally, they found a delicate music box. Ryuto wasn't sure about its value, though.

"This..." Setofukatawagawa began to sob, interrupting Ryuto's confusion.

"It seems that...that child... always...remembered... that I...liked...this music box."

Even though Ryuto had hoped the atmosphere would get a little better, it seemed to only worsen instead. Something went wrong, but Ryuto decided it was best to remain silent.

"She even thought...," Setofukatawagawa said between sobs. It seemed like she felt an immense sense of guilt.

At this moment, Ryuto unexpectedly turned to Hiyori.

"Hiyori, can you go outside for a moment?"

"Sure, Ryuto-sama," Hiyori hesitated slightly but obediently went outside. Ryuto thought he should thank her for not asking why and understanding his intentions.

******************************************************

A few minutes later, the room's door opened again, and Ryuto walked out slowly.

"Let's go, Hiyori."

Upon hearing his call, Hiyori stood up from the hallway bench.

Then, the two of them walked toward the staircase along the corridor.

"Ryuto-sama, please find a way to help Sawaki," Hiyori suddenly spoke, probably influenced by what had just happened. She was easily moved, but in a way, it was a good thing. Ryuto felt a bit envious.

"But even if you say that... how can we help? The situation is really complicated right now. Besides dropping out, there doesn't seem to be any other solution. Even if she pays back the money and doesn't drop out, her school life will still be affected. People will look at her differently, and no matter what, there won't be any good outcome. Do you really understand the current situation, Hiyori?" Ryuto asked.

Anyone should know that it's nearly impossible to change the current situation. It's a clear-cut case, as they say.

But in response to Ryuto's question, Hiyori simply closed her eyes and shook her head honestly. Then she spoke slowly.

"I don't know about that."

Hey, hey, you didn't know? And... don't say it with such prideful tone.

Hiyori then looked at Ryuto with a determined gaze, without a hint of doubt.

"Even though I don't know, there is one thing I'm sure of. That is... if it's Ryuto-sama, you can definitely help Sawaki."

Hey, hey, where does your confidence come from? Moreover, there is no basis for it. I just can't understand.

That's why Ryuto had to ask.

"Why do you say that? My abilities are quite limited, and this situation itself is difficult to solve. Even if it weren't that difficult, it's not something I can handle."

It is possible that Hiyori didn't know about Ryuto's abilities since they recently met, which is why she said that. Ryuto thought so.

However, the response that followed was unexpected for Ryuto.

"Because it's Ryuto-dono, I believe in you!"

At this moment, Ryuto was faced with eyes that had no doubt and completely believed. But it was not blind faith of a religious nature, it was something beyond that...

Although it was a simple and powerful statement, it could not be considered a real answer. Ryuto couldn't argue against it at that moment, so he couldn't provide a decent answer and remained silent... After a moment.

"The smell of the medicine in this hospital is really strong. Let's quickly leave, besides, we still have to work overtime tonight. Actually, Hiyori, you don't have to go."

"That's not possible. I am Ryuto-dono's bodyguard."

Is that so... Then let's go."

"Okay, Ryuto-dono."

It seems like his own troubles are still unclear, but Ryuto has made a certain decision in his heart.