The 'Item Box' That Only I Can Use Is Bugged - Chapter 9.2: Their First Meeting

“Is it okay to trouble family?”

“As long as it’s not selfish or hurtful, yes. You’re just suppressing yourself for their sake. If I were your parent, I wouldn’t want that.”

“Suppressing myself…?”

“A parent wouldn’t want their child to live a life where they can’t do what they truly want.”

That’s my subjective opinion, but parents should prioritize their children.

Protecting not just the child’s body, but their heart, should be a parent’s duty.

“So, you should speak your mind. If your parents are kind, they’ll understand.”

“They are kind! Mom is always cheerful, and Dad, though strict sometimes, is strong, cool, and kind!”

Her words clearly conveyed her love for her parents.

This should make it easier to talk honestly without conflict.

“Then it’s okay.”

“But…”

She looked down, and I asked, “Are you scared?”

She nodded.

She probably wants to meet her parents’ expectations, not just them, but anyone’s.

(She’s a good girl, but hopefully not overly self-sacrificing.)

People who act for others are admirable, but excessive self-sacrifice isn’t good.

Protecting others at the cost of oneself isn’t something those protected would want.

(For now, the focus should be on the current situation.)

“How about I come with you?”

“Together? You’d come?”

I expected rejection, but she seemed receptive.

It felt a bit risky, but I could advise her later.

“Sure. We’ve met, so I can help a little.”

She gently tugged at my sleeve, eyes glistening.

“…I’d like that.”

Where did she learn such endearing behavior? If she grows up, she might become quite the enchanting woman.

“Alright. Shall we go?”

“Yes!”

She gave a wonderful smile.

“Oh, I haven’t introduced myself. I’m Satsuki Okinaga. And you?”

“Hi–Hinobe Nakuru!”

This was the first encounter between Satsuki Okinaga, a reincarnated individual, and Hinobe Nakuru, a key figure in this world.