Chapter 54: The Persistent Kaoruko
Yuta sat on the floor, leaning against the wall, observing the cheerful scene in the house.
Hina was enjoying her food, her attention on the new clothes less than on the treats.
Miu was organizing her new clothes. As an elementary school student without a specific uniform, being able to wear beautiful clothes to school was always something to be proud of.
Sora was admiring her new clothes by the glass door leading to the balcony. Though she had a school uniform, she never had too many clothes.
With the money Yuta had earned, the family could relax comfortably in the air-conditioned room. They had no fear of the future and didn't need to worry about hardships or pain.
The power of money is truly remarkable!
If Yuta were just an ordinary university student, taking care of three people would be nearly impossible without working day and night.
He was very satisfied with his current life, watching the three happy girls, and slowly stood up.
"I'm going out to take care of some university matters. I might be back a bit late, so you'll have to handle dinner yourselves."
Yuta was heading to meet Kaoruko and address some issues related to university.
Sora nodded in response. "Okay, Onii-chan. Don't worry, we'll be fine at home."
Miu also chimed in, "Thank you for today, Big brother."
"Good luck, Uncle!" Hina cheered for Yuta as he left.
With the girls calling him Onii-chan and Hina's cute smile, Yuta felt quite comforted.
"Well, I'm off."
Although the house was small, it had a TV and a computer, and Yuta had bought new phones for Sora and Miu, so the girls wouldn't be bored.
After leaving home, Yuta rode his bicycle towards Kaoruko's apartment complex. It was around 3 PM, and although they had agreed on the evening, Yuta preferred to resolve matters before dark.
Kaoruko was a researcher of Genji Monogatari, dedicating her career to studying this well-known classic.
Yuta admired her dedication, though he certainly didn't want to become the subject of her research.
Soon, Yuta arrived at the apartment building where Kaoruko lived.
As Yuta took the elevator, he called Kaoruko to check if she was at home. When there was no response, he opened the door and was greeted by Kaoruko.
"Come in," she said.
Yuta noticed that although Kaoruko's attire was quite ordinary, it exuded a certain allure that only a mature woman could have.
After following her into the study and sitting down at the desk, Yuta directly addressed Kaoruko, who was seated across from him.
"Professor, I have no interest in Genji Monogatari and do not wish to follow someone else's path."
Kaoruko was prepared for this situation. She nodded and said, "I understand. And as I mentioned before, I won't force you to do anything you're unwilling to do. I will only proceed if both parties are willing."
Yuta was skeptical of her words, suspecting that Kaoruko was hiding something.
Kaoruko set her teacup down and looked at Yuta. "Call me Kaoruko. We're not at school, so there's no need for formalities."
Yuta frowned. He had no personal relationship with Kaoruko, and her sudden shift in tone suggested there was more to her intentions than met the eye.
Yuta never underestimated the boundaries of suspicious individuals.
"Are you still trying to make me play that role? I don't understand how you can go this far. Are you really willing to sell yourself out for the sake of research?"
Yuta suspected that Kaoruko intended to use herself as leverage to convince him.
Among the fourteen women in Genji Monogatari, each has a counterpart. For instance, Aoi is the counterpart found by Kaoruko for Aoi in the novel. It's clear that Kaoruko views herself as the perfect counterpart, akin to the protagonist's stepmother in the book.
Since Yuta and Kaoruko are not related by blood and Kaoruko cannot realistically become Yuta's stepmother, she now sees herself as his aunt.
Kaoruko looked at Yuta with intense seriousness, standing up and saying, "My body was created for this research. For the sake of completing this study, everything is worth it!"
"Once you agree, I can use my body to train you! Whether it's understanding the psychology of different women or improving your skills, I'll personally guide you!"
Kaoruko's statement confirmed Yuta's suspicions; she indeed intended to pursue that kind of relationship with him.
Seeing Kaoruko's straightforward admission left Yuta at a loss for words.
"I've said before that I won't force you into anything," Kaoruko continued. "What I offer won't harm you. You can gain my help and become someone who understands women better. This will be very beneficial for your future, and no one will be hurt!"
Kaoruko was pleased with Yuta's response. She knew if it were someone else, she might not have had as much time to prepare.
[Ding!]
Just as Yuta was about to respond, the sound of a system rang in his ears.
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