Kikukawa Kyo had agreed to join sumimi.
Of course, she couldn't commit to being a full-time idol like Uika and Mana—she still had VA-11 HALL-A to take care of.
So, after consulting with her mother, Kikukawa Shuku, they reached an agreement with sumimi's manager.
The general idea was that Kikukawa Kyo would join sumimi as an auxiliary member of sorts. She wouldn't participate in most practices or activities, but every so often, sumimi would release special song projects where she could appear as a "mysterious third member behind sumimi," turning the concept into a unique promotional gimmick.
The manager, while slightly disappointed that he couldn't bring Kikukawa Kyo fully into the agency, was still very pleased with the outcome. With the right marketing strategy, this "mysterious third member" concept could generate even more buzz.
As for contracts, payments, and other details, Kikukawa Kyo left all of that to her mother. She wasn't concerned about how much she'd earn—she had no real use for money. If she ever needed something for mixology, she could just ask Yuu, Shuku, or even her father, Dian, for the funds.
"Welcome to sumimi!" Mana, already warm toward Kikukawa Kyo, became even more enthusiastic now that her membership was confirmed. Holding up a donut she had been saving, she beamed. "Here, just like I promised! The two biggest ones for you!"
"Thanks, Mana."
Kikukawa Kyo accepted the donuts. They had cooled down a bit, but their sweet aroma was still mouthwatering.
She took a bite—the golden crust was wonderfully crisp, while the inside was soft and satisfying. Each bite released a rich blend of chocolate, vanilla, and other sweet flavors. As she savored it further, the creamy filling mixed with the thick fruit jam, creating an indulgent, sugary richness.
No wonder Mana loves these so much… They were undeniably delicious.
…But, they were also really dry.
Seeing the slight change in Kikukawa Kyo's expression, Mana grew concerned. "What's wrong? Is it not good because it's cold?"
"Cough, cough… I choked on it."
Kikukawa Kyo clutched her throat, her face slightly pale. Though she managed to swallow it down after a few seconds, the discomfort still lingered, making her want to cough it back up.
Just then, something cold pressed against her cheek—a chilled aluminum can.
The sensation of condensation and the sudden burst of coldness startled her, snapping her back to reality.
Turning her head, she saw Uika standing there, holding two cans of juice fresh from the vending machine. She sighed, looking at the two of them with an expression that was equal parts exasperated and amused—a hint of something almost maternal in her gaze.
"You two, seriously… If you're going to eat something this dry, at least have a drink ready." Uika handed them the drinks with a weary look. At this rate, she really was turning into their caretaker.
When it had been just Mana, things were still manageable—she was lively but within reason. But now that Kikukawa Kyo was here, the two of them together created an entirely new level of chaos. Mana had found someone her age to share her idol enthusiasm with, making her even more hyperactive than before.
And Kikukawa Kyo…
At first, Uika had imagined her as a refined young lady—someone elegant and composed, merging the image of her mother, Kikukawa Shuku, with the industry's rumors about her genius. Maybe there was even a bit of her childhood impression of Sakiko mixed in.
During their first meeting, she had found Kikukawa Kyo undeniably beautiful but otherwise unremarkable.
Then, after witnessing her breathtakingly instinctual performance, Uika had developed a deep respect for her as a rare musical prodigy.
But now…
Watching her, after having just nearly choked on a donut, guzzle juice with reckless abandon—the contrast was too much. Uika didn't even know how to process it.
She had a sudden and unshakable thought:
If no one looks after this girl, she's going to have a really rough time.
"Slow down," Uika sighed. "You just choked. If you drink that fast, you're going to end up choking again."
"Mmmf, don't worry…" Kikukawa Kyo replied, still drinking, her words muffled. "Water can't hurt me."
"…What is that, some kind of fantasy novel setting? That sounds so cool!" Mana chimed in excitedly, completely missing the point.
At this rate, before Uika ever caught up to Kikukawa Kyo's musical skills, she might first master the art of babysitting.
For the first time in a long while, she couldn't keep her usual composed expression. Letting out a deep sigh, she resigned herself to her fate.
...
"Come visit the agency more often! And don't forget to chat with us on LINE!"
"I'm really looking forward to the next time we can perform together."
Hearing two farewell messages that perfectly matched their respective personalities, Kikukawa Kyo turned back and waved. "Next time I come, I'll bring you guys some gifts!"
With that, she got into the car that had been waiting for her. Since her mother, Kikukawa Shuku, was driving, she didn't have to worry about sweating through her clothes again on the way home.
"So? How was the idol experience?" Kikukawa Shuku started the car, glancing at her youngest daughter with curiosity.
"It was pretty interesting. Very different from being in a band..." Kikukawa Kyo answered absentmindedly, reaching for a water bottle from the door compartment—one of many kept there specifically for her.
"So, Mom, why did you call me out today? You're not just trying to introduce me to the idol world, are you?"
"I thought those two kids were quite charming. I wanted you to meet them—you might get along well."
Kikukawa Kyo sighed. "Because of my condition?"
"That's not a condition, my dear. It's a gift you were born with," Shuku replied, her tone calm, as if stating an undeniable truth.
"Even though it's caused me so much trouble?"
"Just like how tall people sometimes have to duck under doorways—it's simply a part of who you are."
"Let's be clear, though—your idea might not work." Kikukawa Kyo drank quickly, as she often did when feeling frustrated or restless. The water bottle was empty within moments. "If simply interacting with more people was enough, I should've been fine long ago. But as you can see, Mom, that wall is still standing in the study."
"Of course I remember." Shuku chuckled at the memory. "Your sister once joked that it looked like you were compiling an assassination list."
"That aside, how do you feel about those two?"
"Mana is the classic cheerful and energetic type. Being around her naturally lifts the mood of those around her. Even though I can't read the atmosphere, just seeing her smile makes things feel lighter."
Kikukawa Kyo answered without much thought. From the moment she met Uika and Mana, she had been analyzing them, creating detailed mental profiles—so responding now was effortless.
"As for Uika-nee... She's impressive—the kind of impressive I probably can't match."
"Now that is rare." Shuku's curiosity was piqued. Her daughter was well aware of her own talents, so if even Kikukawa Kyo admitted she couldn't compare, then Uika must be truly exceptional.
"It's probably a strength that comes from being a public figure. Uika-nee is incredible at controlling her expressions—her smile barely wavers."
It was almost like she wore a mask. I could barely read anything from her face the entire time.
But Kikukawa Kyo couldn't rule out the possibility that Uika was simply a naturally considerate person. So, she decided to test her—by forcing her talent into Uika's direct view, almost aggressively.
A slightly open mouth from surprise, furrowed brows from jealousy, averted eyes from insecurity—any reaction would have sufficed. Kikukawa Kyo had been sure she would see something that betrayed Uika's emotions.
But in the end, Uika had maintained that same unwavering smile, with not even a hint of a microexpression to read.
"To be honest, she makes me a little uneasy... I've long since accepted that I can't understand emotions. But this is the first time I can't even identify any external signs to base a judgment on."
"Then why did you accept her invitation?"
"Because even though I don't know what she's hiding... at the very least, I do know that she's been kind to me. That care she shows for others—that part of her isn't fake."
"Oh my, does that mean you've made a friend?"
"Maybe. You know I've never been good at defining friendships. But being around Uika and Mana... it does feel pretty nice."
"Well, that's wonderful."