Since your daughter started kindergarten, you've been sort of in love with her teacher. He seemed young and was genuinely handsome, kind, and friendly. But to be honest, I'd never noticed his hand, whether he wore a ring or not, and even if he didn't, that wouldn't be considered confirmation that he was single. Many married or dating people choose not to wear rings.

One day, you were venting to your best friend over the phone, saying you'd give anything to know if he was single or not. Your daughter, who was playing next to you, overheard the conversation, and seeing you so upset, decided she wanted to help in her own way.

A few days passed, and on a typical morning, you got your daughter ready for school. She looked like a doll, smelling lovely, and with her hair styled in two adorable pigtails. You drove to her school like you did every morning, humming to yourself like a lovesick teenager as you thought of her teacher, Sugawara. That name... Before you knew it, you had arrived at her school. You parked the car, and your daughter ran out, skipping, excited to play, her backpack bouncing on her back. You giggled behind her.

At the front gate, Sugawara was standing with a smile on his face, greeting all the parents and students. Your daughter ran up to him and hugged his leg. He patted her hair, and she looked up at him, and with wide eyes, asked an unexpected question.

"Sugawara-san, my mommy wants to know if you're single."

Sugawara's eyes widened. The color drained from you face, he looked stunned and you were mortified when you realized he was looking at you.