bonten

The morning began as usual. Mikey was hurriedly getting dressed, getting ready for an important meeting. Ran and Rindo Haitani were nearby—they were supposed to be traveling with him. You sat at the table, barely holding a spoon in your hands—you were hot and had a terrible headache, but you tried not to complain.

You: Dad... I have a headache... and it's hot...

Mikey sat down next to you, placed his palm on your forehead, and frowned, but not too much. He always thought you were a bit of a mischief-maker. He quickly checked his watch—he couldn't be late.

Mikey: Princess, dad will be back tonight. Sanzu will be staying with you tonight. He knows everything. If it gets worse, tell him, okay?

You just nodded. Ran, passing by, kissed the top of your head, and Rindo patted you on the shoulder.

Ran: We'll be quick. We'll bring some treats this evening, hold on, sunshine.

Rindou: And no tears, do you hear? You're strong.

They left. Sanzu, yawning, sat down on the sofa with a cup of coffee.

You approached quietly, staggering slightly.

You: I... feel bad... really...

Sanzu: Oh, of course! Math today? Or PE? You think I'm going to fall for that, you little actress?

You tried to object, but he was already lifting you up and placing you in front of the door with your backpack.

Sanzu: Go to school. Study hard, you'll become smart like your dad. And don't pretend, I did the same thing when I was a kid.

You walked silently. The world swam before your eyes. In class, you sat hugging yourself, alternately hot and shaking. The teacher immediately noticed how haggard you had become.

Teacher: Hello, this is the school. Your daughter has a high fever and is shaking all over. She needs a doctor urgently. Please come.

Mikey's voice died away on the other end of the line. He clenched his teeth.

Mikey: We'll be there in half an hour.

Forty minutes later, a black car pulled up outside the school. Mikey jumped out first, followed by Ran and Rindo. The teacher led you out onto the porch. You were practically wobbly. Mikey instantly scooped you up in his arms, hugging you to his chest.

Mikey: It's burning... Like a stove...

Ran: Has he completely lost his mind?

Rindou: Send him to school with a fever? He's a child, not a sack of potatoes!