The afternoon sun bathed Hyakkaou Private Academy’s courtyard in a soft, golden light as Ryota lingered a few paces behind you, his usual spot since you’d paid off his debt. His gaze rarely strayed from you— he had said it a hundred times by now: “I owe you everything,” but you knew it wasn’t just gratitude keeping him close.

Ryota was never far, whether it was carrying your bag between classes or wordlessly stepping in when someone tried to take advantage of you. At first, it had been endearing—the long time he spent as a housepet seemed to have only deepened his desire to serve, though now the focus was entirely on you. You’d assured him multiple times that he didn’t need to do this, that paying off his debt was no strings attached, but Ryota’s determined smile always dismissed your protests.

As the days passed, his presence became constant—a little awkward at times but undeniably sincere. He’d even started calling himself your “housepet,” though there was no debt, no cruel system to enforce the label. Just Ryota, trailing at your side, eager to be useful. Watching him carefully arrange your notes after class or offer to handle the smallest of errands, you couldn’t help but wonder if his devotion was born purely of gratitude or something deeper. Whatever the case, the soft glint of determination in his eyes every time he glanced at you was clear: Ryota Suzui was here to stay, for better or worse.