I have been writing a sport-related chapter for my series OreGairu POV. I might give it up. I'll post more about the chapter on my series OreGairu POV. For this chapter, I split it up into two parts. One for Ozaki Yuriko and one part for Aika Sato, the maid. Well enjoy.
The early morning sunlight streamed through the large windows of Hikigaya's office, bathing the sleek, modern furnishings in a warm glow. Aika Sato and Ozaki Yuriko were already there, each embodying a distinct air of professionalism and sophistication.
Aika Sato stood by the windows, dressed impeccably in a black pencil skirt that accentuated her slender figure. Her crisp white blouse beneath her blazer showcased her porcelain skin, while her dark hair was neatly pulled back into a bun, highlighting her delicate features. Subtle makeup enhanced her natural beauty, and a pair of stud earrings lent a touch of elegance to her look.
Across the room, Ozaki Yuriko's presence was equally commanding. She wore a knee-length pencil skirt in deep emerald green with a matching blazer that cinched at her slender waist. Her silk blouse's bold color made a striking contrast with her dark, sleekly waved hair. Sheer black pantyhose and clicking black patent leather pumps on the polished floor added sophistication to her ensemble.
When Hikigaya stepped out for a phone call and meeting, the two women acknowledged each other with a polite nod, their eyes meeting briefly before they returned to their tasks. Despite the early hour, their confidence and poise were palpable, signaling their readiness to face the day's challenges.
0000
Alone in Hikigaya's office, Aika gathered her courage and approached Ozaki-san with a question that had been weighing on her mind for some time.
"Ozaki-san," Aika began tentatively, her voice barely above a whisper, "may I ask you something personal?"
Ozaki's expression hardened slightly, a flicker of irritation passing over her features before she composed herself and nodded. "Go ahead, Sato-san. What is it?"
Taking a deep breath, Aika steeled herself for the conversation ahead. "Are you... in love with Hikigaya?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly with uncertainty.
Initially, Ozaki's response was sharp, her eyes flashing with indignation. "That's none of your business, Sato-san," she retorted, her tone cold and dismissive.
However, as the moments passed, Ozaki's expression softened, showing confusion, sadness, and finally, resignation. She sighed heavily and spoke, her voice a mixture of regret and vulnerability.
"Yes, Sato-san," Ozaki-san admitted quietly. "I am in love with Hikigaya. But it's not romantic. It's different."
Aika's heart ached for her colleague as she watched the turmoil on Ozaki's face. Sensing her distress, she reached out and placed a comforting hand on Ozaki's arm.
"Sato-san, there's something I need to tell you," Ozaki began after a pause, her voice soft but filled with emotion. "Something that's been weighing heavily on my mind." Her gaze dropped to the floor as she struggled for words.
"One night, long ago, during an overtime session in this office, I kissed him while he was sleeping on this couch," Ozaki confessed, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "I know it was wrong, and I deeply regret it now. It made me realize my feelings were different—as if he were a brother."
Aika listened attentively, her expression unreadable as she processed Yuriko's confession. After a moment of silence, she reached out and placed a comforting hand on Yuriko's shoulder.
"It's okay, Ozaki-san. We all make mistakes," Aika said gently, offering her support. "But why do you feel this way? Why do you see Hikigaya as a big brother figure?"
Yuriko sighed, her shoulders slumping with the weight of her emotions. "I think... I kissed him because deep down, I've always seen him as more than just a colleague or boss. He's been there for me in ways my own family never was, treating me with kindness and respect, like a protective older brother."
Aika nodded understandingly, her expression sympathetic. "It's natural to seek comfort and support from those we trust," she replied softly. "And it sounds like Hikigaya has become like family to you, someone you can rely on in times of need."
Yuriko nodded, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Yes, exactly. That's why I feel so guilty about what happened. I never wanted to jeopardize our relationship or make him uncomfortable."
Aika squeezed Yuriko's hand reassuringly. "I'm sure Hikigaya understands, Ozaki-san. And if you truly value him as a big brother figure, then I'm sure he values you just as much as family."
With Aika's words of reassurance, Yuriko felt a sense of relief wash over her. Though she still carried the weight of her mistake, she knew that with Aika's support and guidance, she could navigate the complexities of her feelings towards Hikigaya and continue to cherish their bond like family.
0000
I vividly remember the day I first met Hikigaya Hachiman. It all began when I joined a small company. Adjusting my sleek black skirt and smoothing down the matching pantyhose that hugged my legs with a whisper of elegance, I glanced at my reflection one last time to ensure every detail was impeccable. Confidence radiated from my emerald-green eyes as I stepped into the lobby of the corporate building, my heels clicking against the polished marble floor.
My attire was more than just a suit; it was a statement of professionalism and precision, carefully selected to convey competence and reliability. Each seam and each stitch spoke volumes about my attention to detail and commitment to excellence.
The receptionist, a young woman with a friendly smile, greeted me warmly as I approached. "Good morning, how may I assist you?" she inquired, her voice polite and professional.
"I'm here for an interview," I replied, smiling confidently. "Yuriko Ozaki."
The receptionist nodded, quickly checking her computer before directing me to the elevators. "The interview will be on the fifteenth floor."
As I walked, the subtle scent of my signature perfume wafted in my wake, leaving a trail of sophistication and refinement. It was a scent that spoke of success and ambition, of someone who knew exactly what they wanted and wasn't afraid to go after it.
"Thank you," I said graciously, offering her a nod of appreciation before stepping into the elevator. As the doors slid shut behind me, I felt a surge of excitement mingled with anticipation. This interview could be the start of something new, a chance to showcase my talents and carve out a path toward success in the corporate world.
The elevator hummed softly as it ascended, the journey to the fifteenth floor seeming to stretch on endlessly. My mind raced with thoughts of what lay ahead, the possibilities and opportunities that awaited me.
My heart pounded with anticipation as I approached the interview room, my posture was straight and confident, my smile poised and practiced. I was not just here to land a job; I was here to excel, to exceed expectations, to prove myself worthy of every opportunity that came my way.
It was then that I noticed him—a figure slouched in a worn-out suit, the fabric wrinkled and frayed at the edges. My gaze lingered for a moment, my expression unreadable as I assessed the stark contrast between us. But even as I observed, my resolve remained unshaken. I am Ozaki Yuriko, the embodiment of perfection in every aspect of my being. And I would stop at nothing to ensure that my image as the perfect employee remained untarnished, unassailable, and undeniable.
I was mistaken.
My realization dawned slowly, creeping into my consciousness like the first rays of dawn breaking through the darkness. After a month of working alongside Hikigaya Hachiman, I began to see him not just as a colleague, but as a rival—a rival whose very existence seemed to challenge everything I stood for.
While I meticulously toiled, striving for perfection in every task, Hikigaya-kun sauntered through his work with a careless ease that bordered on indifference. It grated on my nerves, this stark contrast between our approaches. I wanted recognition and validation for my efforts, while Hikigaya-kun seemed content as long as the job got done, regardless of the means.
But it wasn't just our work ethic that set us apart; it was our ambitions, our aspirations for the future. I had my sights set on climbing the corporate ladder, reaching for the heights of success and prestige. Hikigaya-kun, on the other hand, showed little interest in leadership roles, content to remain in the shadows while others took center stage.
Our interactions with our co-workers only served to deepen the divide between us. Despite his antisocial tendencies, Hikigaya-kun managed to forge strong relationships with his colleagues, earning their trust and admiration through his reliability and occasional flashes of insight. With my charm and allure, I also had a way with people, effortlessly garnering support and admiration from those around me.
It was a power struggle, a clash of wills that simmered beneath the surface, threatening to boil over at any moment. Yet, to my frustration, Hikigaya-kun seemed unfazed by our rivalry, indifferent to the tension that crackled between us. He didn't seem to care about climbing the corporate ladder or proving himself worthy of recognition. Worst of all, competing for projects did nothing to resolve our differences; if anything, it only served to highlight the disparities between us.
But despite our animosity, there was one undeniable truth that I couldn't ignore: we were better together. Despite our differences, despite our rivalry, we complemented each other in ways that neither could achieve alone. Our collaboration yielded results that surpassed even our expectations, forcing me to grudgingly acknowledge that perhaps, just perhaps, there was more to Hikigaya-kun than met the eye.
0000
I leaned back in my chair, my gaze distant as I recounted the events that had unfolded over the past week, each moment etched into my memory with crystalline clarity.
"Hikigaya is... complicated," I began, my voice tinged with a mix of frustration and admiration. "Initially, I saw him merely as a rival—a thorn in my side, constantly reminding me of everything I strive to be. But then, things changed."
0000
I paused, recalling the day we had crossed paths with the handsome troublemaker from another department—a man whose reputation preceded him, with whispers of his exploits echoing through the halls of the office. From the start, my instincts warned me to keep my distance.
Yet, despite my reservations, I found myself drawn into his orbit, his charm weaving a spell around me even as I fought to resist its pull. And in the midst of it all, there was Hikigaya-kun, steadfast and unwavering, a rock amidst the storm.
We were forced to work together on a project. It was a stressful week. The playboy kept boasting about himself, constantly asking me to meet for dinner or go out with him. After completing the project, the four of us celebrated by having dinner together. I don't drink much alcohol. For some reason, I only had one beer, yet the effects felt disproportionately heavy.
0000
"He... he protected me," I continued, my voice softening with gratitude. "When the playboy became too forceful, Hikigaya-kun stepped in. He shielded me from harm, his presence a comforting anchor in the chaos."
Then, as if by some twist of fate, I found myself waking up in Hikigaya's home, greeted by the sight of Yukinoshita Yukino—his girlfriend, his partner, his confidante. It was a revelation, a stark reminder of the boundaries between us, of the lines that could never be crossed.
Hikigaya informed me that the playboy had slipped something into my drink when I wasn't looking. He drugged me!
0000
"I realized then that Hikigaya-kun was more than just a rival," I admitted, my voice tinged with vulnerability. "He was a friend, a protector, someone I could rely on when the world grew dark and uncertain."
This realization filled me with conflicting emotions—a mix of gratitude and resentment, admiration and envy. Amidst it all, though, there was a newfound respect for Hikigaya-kun, a recognition of the strength and integrity that lay beneath his reserved exterior.
[break]
"He may be lazy, he may be unconventional, but he's also someone worth knowing," I concluded. "And for that, I'll always be grateful."
My voice wavered as I recounted the events that followed the celebration, the bitter taste of betrayal still lingering in my mind.
0000
"After the celebration, everything seemed to unravel with startling speed," I began, my tone heavy with regret. "Hikigaya-kun... he quit without warning, without so much as a goodbye. We were left reeling, trying to make sense of his sudden departure."
But it was what came next that truly shook the foundation of the company—a series of rumors and whispers that grew louder with each passing day. Clients were slipping through our fingers, and deals were falling apart before they could even be finalized. And then, the crushing blow came—the president's announcement that the company had gone bankrupt, leaving us all without jobs, without a future.
"It was chaos," I continued, my voice trembling with emotion. "And then... then we learned the truth. The playboy, the one who had tried to woo me... he was selling the company's secrets, betraying us all for his own gain."
My words hung heavy in the air, a damning indictment of the man who had once charmed his way into my life. But even more shocking was the revelation that he had tried to pin the blame on others, including myself, by altering the data to make it seem as though we had played a part in the company's downfall.
0000
"Hikigaya-kun was blamed too," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper. "But... he couldn't have been involved. He quit before any of this happened. There's no way he could have had a hand in it."
It was a bitter truth, a painful reminder of the consequences of misplaced trust and blind ambition. Looking back on those tumultuous days, I couldn't help but wonder what might have been if things had turned out differently—if Hikigaya-kun had stayed if we had been able to uncover the truth before it was too late.
But alas, the past was set in stone, and all we could do now was pick up the pieces and move forward, carrying with them the lessons learned from our shared ordeal.
As my former co-workers and I packed our belongings, preparing to leave the company for the last time, a sense of apprehension hung heavy in the air. The uncertainty of the future weighed on my shoulders as I stepped outside, only to be greeted by the sight of Hikigaya's luxury car pulling up to the curb.
I hesitated, instinctively recoiling from the idea of facing him in my moment of vulnerability. But before I could slip away unnoticed, Hikigaya's voice cut through the air, calling my name with a sense of urgency that brooked no argument.
I wanted to cry.
Reluctantly, I approached, my steps hesitant as I braced myself for whatever confrontation lay ahead. I watched with a mixture of apprehension and curiosity as Hikigaya engaged in conversation with my former co-workers, his demeanor relaxed and confident.
When he finally turned his attention to me, my defenses went up, my guard firmly in place as I prepared for the inevitable clash. But to my surprise, Hikigaya's tone was neither mocking nor accusatory; instead, it was surprisingly sincere, his words tinged with a hint of remorse.
He invited me to lunch, a gesture that caught me off guard and left me feeling torn between resentment and curiosity. Against my better judgment, I found myself agreeing, unable to resist the pull of his persuasive charm.
We dined at a fancy restaurant, and the atmosphere charged with tension as I struggled to make sense of the situation. And then, with a single sentence, Hikigaya dropped a bombshell that shattered my preconceived notions and left me reeling in disbelief.
He had started a company—a freelance services platform—and he wanted me to join him. The revelation was shocking enough on its own, but it was Hikigaya's explanation for his abrupt departure from our former company that truly rocked me to my core.
He had quit because he had enough funds to pay off his company's property, a decision that spoke volumes about his resourcefulness and determination to chart his path, regardless of the consequences.
As I processed the magnitude of Hikigaya's offer, I couldn't help but feel a flicker of uncertainty mingled with a glimmer of hope. Perhaps, just perhaps, this unexpected turn of events was the opportunity I had been waiting for—a chance to start anew and carve out a future on my terms.
0000
As I stepped into Hikigaya's company headquarters, I couldn't help but be awestruck by the sheer magnitude of the operation before me. The sleek, modern architecture of the building exuded an air of sophistication and professionalism, a stark contrast to the chaos and uncertainty of my former workplace.
But it wasn't just the size of the company that took me by surprise; it was the realization that this was the same company I had seen in the news lately—the one that had been making headlines with its rapid growth and innovative approach to the freelance services industry.
As I followed Hikigaya through the bustling corridors, my mind raced with questions and possibilities. How had he managed to build such a successful company in such a short amount of time? What was his secret to success, and how could I contribute to it?
But above all, there was a sense of pride and excitement bubbling within me—a feeling of being part of something new and groundbreaking, something that had the potential to change the landscape of the industry forever.
As we reached Hikigaya's office, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within me. This was it—the beginning of a new chapter in my life, a chance to leave behind the failures and disappointments of the past and embrace the opportunities that lay ahead.
0000
As Hikigaya-kun led me through the corridors of his company, I couldn't help but notice the distinct lack of employees bustling about. The halls were eerily quiet, with only a handful of individuals scattered here and there, each engrossed in their tasks.
Curiosity piqued, and I couldn't resist voicing my observation to Hikigaya-kun. "It seems like you have a rather small team here," I remarked, casting a questioning glance in his direction.
Hikigaya chuckled softly, a knowing glint in his eyes as he turned to face me. "Ah, yes. That's by design," he explained cryptically, his tone tinged with a hint of nostalgia.
I raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his response. "By design?" I echoed, prompting him to elaborate.
Hikigaya nodded, his gaze drifting off into the distance as he delved into the story behind his unconventional hiring practices. "Back in high school, there was a certain club I was forced to join—a club where misfits and outcasts gathered, each with their own unique quirks and talents."
I listened intently as Hikigaya recounted his memories of the club, his words painting a vivid picture of a motley crew of individuals brought together by circumstance rather than choice.
"It was there that I learned the value of embracing diversity, of celebrating the strengths and weaknesses that make each person unique," Hikigaya continued, a wistful smile playing at the corners of his lips.
"And so, when I started this company, I made it my mission to seek out individuals who march to the beat of their own drum, who bring something truly special to the table," he explained, his voice tinged with conviction.
I nodded, beginning to see the method behind Hikigaya's seemingly unorthodox approach to hiring. It was a philosophy rooted in acceptance and inclusivity, a reflection of his belief in the power of individuality and diversity.
As we continued our tour of the company, I couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for Hikigaya's vision and principles.
0000
I paused, my gaze drifting off into the distance as I reflected on my time working for Hikigaya and his company. "It was... stressful, to say the least," I began, my voice tinged with a mixture of exhaustion and nostalgia. "Hard work, long hours, constant challenges... but also, moments of triumph, of camaraderie, of growth."
I recounted the countless nights spent working late into the night alongside Hikigaya, our shared determination driving us forward even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. And then, there was that fateful night—the night when everything changed.
0000
"We were in his office, buried under a mountain of paperwork when he casually dropped the bombshell," I continued, my tone incredulous as I recalled the moment with startling clarity. "He told me to take a break, to sleep on the couch... and then, just like that, he revealed the truth."
My words hung heavy in the air, the weight of their significance settling over us like a shroud. "I... I didn't even know the title of my position until that moment," I admitted, a hint of disbelief coloring my voice. "I was his right-hand man, the second in command of the company. The vice-president."
It was a revelation that left me reeling, my mind struggling to comprehend the magnitude of the responsibility thrust upon my shoulders. And yet, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, there was a sense of clarity—a realization that despite our differences, despite our disagreements, Hikigaya and I were a force to be reckoned with.
"We can't always agree with each other, but... that's fine," I concluded, a note of determination creeping into my voice. "Because in the end, what matters is that we produce results. Together, we're unstoppable."
And as I looked to the future, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within me—a sense of excitement for the challenges and adventures that lay ahead, and the knowledge that no matter what obstacles we faced, Hikigaya and I would face them together, as equals, as partners, as friends.
Sato POV:
As Ozaki-san turned to face me, she began to recount the story of how she met Hikigaya and ascended to the position of vice president in his company.
"I remember the day I first entered Hikigaya's company headquarters as his Vice-President," Ozaki-san began, her voice carrying the weight of nostalgia and determination. "My appearance exuded confidence and sophistication, a stark contrast to the chaos and uncertainty swirling around me."
She described her attire with a sense of pride, each detail carefully selected to convey her competence and authority. "I wore a black pleated knit miniskirt that hugged my curves in all the right places, paired with a vibrant red tank top for a pop of color."
Ozaki-san continued, her words painting a picture of elegance and poise. "A sleek black blazer draped effortlessly over my shoulders, its tailored lines adding a touch of professionalism to my ensemble."
But it wasn't just the clothing that set her apart; it was the subtle details that spoke volumes about her character. "Delicate gold jewelry adorned my ears and wrists, catching the light with a subtle sparkle that mirrored the determination in my emerald-green eyes."
"And then there was my pantyhose," Yuriko added with a knowing smile. "A subtle yet essential element of my ensemble, worn with confidence to enhance my already captivating presence."
In every aspect of her appearance, Ozaki-san radiated confidence and allure, leaving a lasting impression on those around her. "I knew then that I was destined for greatness," she concluded, her voice filled with certainty and conviction. "And with Hikigaya's guidance, I became Vice-President of his company—a position I earned through hard work, determination, and unwavering dedication."
"There is another reason why I am loyal to Hikigaya. And that reason is why I love him. But I'm not ready to talk about it. I'm not confident yet."
0000
As the clock struck 8 pm, signaling the end of another bustling day, the resonance of the front door opening reverberated through the expansive foyer of Hikigaya's lavish residence. Hikigaya Hachiman, clad in a sharp black suit, emphasized his commanding presence. His demeanor exuded confidence, though hints of weariness lingered in his gaze, undoubtedly from the day's demands.
Following closely behind him was me, his steadfast maid and secretary, dressed in a coordinated black suit that mirrored Hikigaya's attire. Yet, where his ensemble projected authority and professionalism, mine added a touch of femininity and grace, the black pencil skirt accentuating my curves with subtle elegance.
As Hikigaya-san divested himself of his suit jacket and loosened his tie, I moved gracefully to his side, a silent but ever-present figure offering solace and support. With each adjustment of his collar, my touch conveyed a depth of affection and devotion reserved for a cherished employer.
In return, Hikigaya-san bestowed upon me a grateful smile, a silent acknowledgment of the unwavering support I provided him day in and day out. Though his gratitude often remained unspoken, his appreciation was palpable, serving as a source of strength amidst the demands of his taxing life.
As we were ushered into the living room by Yukinoshita-sama, I sensed an undercurrent of concern in her composed demeanor. It was clear that she had something important to discuss, and I awaited her words with bated breath.
Addressing us directly, Yukinoshita-sama broached the topic of Hikigaya's impromptu trip to California. While her tone remained measured, her concern was unmistakable. Hikigaya's explanation was met with understanding, though Yukinoshita-sama stressed the importance of communication in their relationship.
As we settled into the living room, my thoughts drifted momentarily to Hiratsuka Shizuka, their former high school teacher and a prominent figure in their lives. Tall and imposing, with long black hair cascading over her shoulders and reaching down to her calves, she possessed an air of authority that commanded respect. Despite her unkempt bangs obscuring her purple eyes, there was an unmistakable intensity in her gaze, hinting at the depth of her wisdom and experience.
Hiratsuka-sensei was often seen clad in her signature attire: a lab coat draped over her work uniform, consisting of a black vest, dress shirt, skirt, and loosely worn tie. Her unconventional style mirrored her unconventional approach to teaching, and though her methods were unorthodox, there was no denying the impact she had on her students.
In Yukinoshita-sama's meticulously kept files on "women to keep an eye out for," Hiratsuka-sensei undoubtedly held a prominent place. Her influence extended beyond the classroom, and her interactions with Hikigaya-sama and Yukinoshita-sama were often scrutinized with keen interest.
If Hiratsuka-sensei were not so selfish and were willing to accept Yukinoshita-sama's terms and conditions, perhaps Yukinoshita-sama would have been amenable to accepting her as Hikigaya's mistress. After all, Hiratsuka-sensei's understanding of both Hikigaya-sama and Yukinoshita-sama ran deep, and her presence in their lives had left an indelible mark. However, such hypothetical scenarios remained nothing more than speculation, as the dynamics of their relationships were far more intricate than mere conjecture could encompass.
"I understand, Yukinoshita. I should have communicated better," Hikigaya conceded, his sincerity evident.
Regarding the trip, Yukinoshita-sama announced her intention to accompany them, citing her responsibility to oversee their well-being. As for me, she expressed her regrets for the inconvenience the trip might cause and granted me an early paid vacation in their absence.
Gratitude swelled within me as I expressed my thanks, overwhelmed by Yukinoshita-sama's consideration and kindness. With a renewed sense of purpose, I pledged to ensure all necessary arrangements were made for their trip, including applying for a passport for future travel events.
As the matter was settled, a sense of reassurance washed over me. The understanding reached between us served as a testament to the strength of our bond, leaving me confident that we were prepared for whatever the future held.
0000
Before long, the door creaked open, and I entered, clad in my maid uniform. I exuded quiet grace and elegance, my warm caramel eyes reflecting determination as I approached.
"Yukinoshita-sama," I greeted respectfully, my voice soft yet reassuring.
"How may I assist you?"
Yukinoshita-sama offered a gentle smile. "Thank you, Sato-san. We need to prepare for our trip. I'll need your help with packing."
I nodded, my demeanor calm as I moved to assist Yukinoshita-sama. Together, we gathered Hikigaya's belongings, folding his clothes, and organizing his travel essentials with precision.
As we worked, the conversation turned personal. Folding a shirt, Yukinoshita-sama broached the topic that weighed on her mind.
"Sato-san, I'm curious to hear about your interactions with Hikigaya-kun, especially concerning Ozaki Yuriko. How do they interact?" she inquired, a mix of curiosity and concern in her voice.
Pausing for a moment, I carefully considered my response before speaking. "Yukinoshita-sama, if I may be honest, their relationship is indeed complex, but not in the way one might expect. It's more akin to that of siblings."
I continued, my tone reassuring. "Hikigaya-sama often assumes the role of an older brother to Ozaki-san, guiding and supporting her. They may bicker at times, but there's a deep respect and trust between them."
Listening intently, Yukinoshita-sama found comfort in my perspective, easing her apprehension.
"Ozaki-san is dedicated to her work and Hikigaya-sama. Her respect for him is evident in her actions, always striving for excellence," I elaborated, my gaze meeting Yukinoshita-sama's. "Their dynamic is unique, but it's built on mutual respect and loyalty."
She nodded, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Thank you, Sato-san. Your insight is invaluable to me."
Returning the smile, I expressed, "It's my pleasure, Yukinoshita-sama. Open communication is key."
After preparing for the following day, I returned to my room. I undressed and prepared to sleep.
