“So... You’re saying that ‘Cinnamon’ works here?”

“Yes, my princess. According to my research, inside this 20-story building is a host club and we will find a senior hostess there known as Cinnamon. It comes with a hefty price but we came fully-prepared.

“Are you excited to go in? Once inside, you will find yourself in the world of adults. You won’t be denied entry as you are now an adult yourself. You can even try and have fun as an adult. Naturally, as your devoted butler, I will be with you every step of the way.”

ﾍ(｀▽´* )

“W-What world of adults? This is not that kind of club, right?”

(^◇^；)

“How cute, you don’t have to worry about knowing what kind of club it is. After all, it is that kind of club.”

“...!!!”

“Ha ha~ I’m definitely not making things up, but it’s not something outwardly indecent. It’s actually very luxurious and the food they serve are of high-quality, plus the wine selection is also top-notch. It’s very similar to going to an upscale restaurant with a private booth, it’s just that there are options for these so-called ‘other services’ that make guests more... comfortable.”

“...”

“Shall we go in?”

“...”

“What’s the matter? Why are you clutching onto my blazer? Are you... hesitant?”

“I... well. Do you think it’s really her? I mean if that’s the case then why would she suddenly announce her existence just when I turned 18, did she really want me to come find her? Or was she just sloppy and left traces when she sent me that gift?

“Does... does she even want me? Otherwise, why would father be that secretive about her existence at all?”

The butler’s face darkened. His lady was normally energetic so it was a foreign feeling seeing her this dispirited and uncertain. Somehow, it made him feel frantic and annoyed at the same time.

“Let’s first go inside and settle in a room. We’ll request for her when you’re ready.”

“...”

“Please, feel free to interlock your fingers with mine, just like when we pretended to be a couple at the airport. My heat-sharing skills are on point, which is as expected of an exceptional butler.”

“...”

(⌯˃̶᷄ ﹏ ˂̶᷄⌯)

“Hmm, are you feeling better now that we’ve settled down and we’re out of the cold winter night? Did you want me to follow-up on our order?”

“It’s fine. The refreshments should be okay for now.

“Why are you still standing next to me. Why don’t you take your seat as well?”

“Does the young mistress like for her humble butler to sit next to her? I’m afraid that by doing so, it will further give other people an unnatural idea of the two of us, a man and a young woman, seeking for company with an distinguished hostess.”

“...

“Why did I even bother asking you?!”

(ノ｀m´)ノ ~┻━┻

“Heh, I’m just kidding. This butler will definitely follow your orders, regardless of what other people think,” the butler said with a bow before sitting next to his young mistress.

“...”

“Are you feeling nervous?”

“...”

“Anxious?”

“...

“Yes. What if she doesn’t like me? What if she doesn’t remember me?”

The butler felt an urge to hold her hand to comfort her, but pulled back his gloved digits and flashed a smile instead.

“Whatever reaction Lady Cinnamon may have, this butler will be at your side. Please be at ease, I am here for you no matter what.”

“...

“Haaaaa...”

(　-。-)

“Hmm?”

“You’re right.

“Thanks for being here with me, Vaughn.”

( ‾́ ︶ ‾́ )