NOVEL NEXT A small, aged building comes into view.
The walls show signs of repair, with a tidy garden and various plants arranged in a flower bed in one corner.
Although it’s old, the overall impression is clean, suggesting it has been carefully maintained over the years.
As expected, Plona, who had been leading me, pointed to the building and said, “This is our orphanage! Are you really okay, sis?”
“Yeah, I’m just grateful that someone I don’t even know is feeding and sheltering me.”
Plona suggested that if I had no suitable place to stay until my memory returned, I could work and live in the orphanage in her hometown.
With no reason to refuse, I accepted immediately.
I mean, who wouldn’t bow in gratitude for being offered a job, right?
Is there even a workplace that would take in someone with an unclear identity like me, basically an illegal resident?
Normally, that would be a 100% extreme job, but it turns out the backing comes from a knight.
At least it shouldn’t be an unreasonable place to work. I’d say those conditions are more than generous.
Honestly, I’d be satisfied if they just fed and sheltered me.
“Ahh, sis, you’re so wonderful!”
Plona jumped into my arms.
Being treated as the older sibling while she admires me, I find it genuinely complicated as to how to respond.
More importantly, I wish she’d tone down the hugging a bit.
However, seeing her sparkling eyes reminds me of a puppy wagging its tail, and I find it difficult to say that it feels burdensome.
Since then, I’ve noticed that after we left the village, Plona has taken every opportunity to jump into my embrace.
I’m genuinely happy and grateful for her affection, which could have ended as just a fleeting relationship, but it also makes me quite embarrassed.
Especially when Selin is briefly absent, it feels like Plona’s hugs increase in frequency, but that can’t just be my imagination.
With no one to intervene, I find myself helpless against her.
Even if I wanted to shake her off, her small body is surprisingly strong, and her arms wrapped around me feel as solid as a rock, making escape impossible.
So this is what a knight’s strength is all about? I’ve heard tales of vampires, but since I’ve never seen one, I’d say Plona’s strength is the most fantastical experience I’ve had since arriving in this world.
Thanks to that, I now find myself quietly allowing her to hug me until she’s satisfied.
…But wow, this is getting a bit long. I’m starting to feel a little uncomfortable breathing.
With her head buried in my chest and her arms wrapped around my back, each inhale feels like I’m being suffocated, almost as if I’m back in my original body.
Of course, compared to back then, this isn’t painful at all, but remembering that agony isn’t exactly pleasant for my mind.
“Ah… did I make you uncomfortable? I’m sorry!”
Seemingly reading my expression, perceptive Plona loosened her grip and looked up at me with concern.
It’s not that I’m uncomfortable, but having a girl clinging to me all the time is a bit… much.
I know she means well, but I can’t be held captive every single time. I really should just say something to her—
“Well… I grew up in this orphanage since I was a baby! I’ve never had an older sister to rely on other than the director! Seeing Aria-nee makes me feel like being a spoiled child! Hehe!”
“—I’m not uncomfortable at all. If your support is helpful, I’ll gladly do it for you. I’ve received much help from you too, you know.”
Oh my gosh, that was a close one. I almost became a garbage person by coldly rejecting the kind-hearted girl who’s just trying to live cheerfully despite being an orphan.
I don’t consider myself a good person, but I’m not so rotten that I’d throw shade at a sweet child like her.
But what about Selin? Plona must look up to Selin the most, but—wait, upon reflection, Selin is her boss.
Well, it’s certainly not acceptable to act spoiled with your supervisor. I can understand why Plona is so starved for affection.
Yet, suddenly bringing up a backstory like that feels unfair. I almost had a traffic accident from the shock.
It’d be nice if she could give me some signals before stepping on any metaphorical landmines.
“I love you, sis! Just call me Plona!”
“W-well, alright, Plona. Let’s go inside and talk!”
Luckily, I managed to stop at the red light this time.
But seeing Plona’s eyes, ready to leap into my arms again, made me hurry her along.
Sorry, Plona, but I don’t have the stamina for a second round right now.
Plona thought for a moment and then eagerly nodded her head.
“Right, I guess it’s best to meet the director soon! Let’s go in!”
Looks like I dodged a bullet there.
*
“Plona, you’re back! Did your dispatch go well?”
Pushing aside a few curious children approaching from the entrance, what appeared was an elderly woman. Plona bounced over to her.
“Grandma!”
“Good, good. You’re not hurt?”
They looked just like a grandmother and granddaughter. Such a heartwarming scene.
After the hugs, Plona casually greeted the nearby children as if it were her own home.
“Oh my, you’ve brought a guest! Who is this young lady?”
“Well, um… it’s a long story!”
“I see. It’s quite chaotic here, so let’s talk inside. Jack, Remi, Cain, you go off and play.”
“Yes—” the kids scattered.
I was curious about what an orphanage would be like, but it actually feels cozier than I expected.
The kids here must all have their own backstories, but despite lacking blood ties, they naturally create a family-like atmosphere, suggesting they trust each other and have a supportive environment.
“So then, I’m late for introductions. This elderly one is Amy, the director here.”
“Hello, director. I go by the name Aria. I look forward to working with you.”
I briefly hesitated, considering if my name counts since I only use it for Plona and maybe Selin, but the awkward phrase “I go by this name” slipped out.
When Director Amy’s glance shifted toward Plona, she quickly raised her hand and jumped in to explain for me.
“Aria-nee has amnesia! We rescued her during the last mission, and since she had nowhere to stay, I suggested she work here! Is that okay?!”
“Hmmm, I did think it would be nice to have an extra hand. Now that you’re officially a knight, the orphanage’s budget has increased a bit. But, young lady, orphanage work involves a lot of grunt work. Are you sure you’re okay with that?”
“I’m fine. It’s just that I might be a burden since I don’t know what I’m doing, but if you allow me, I’ll work hard to learn and contribute. And please, feel free to speak comfortably.”
Director Amy looked at me with concern in her eyes.
It is indeed worrisome for someone with amnesia to show up wanting a job.
And this isn’t just anywhere; it’s an orphanage. It’s only natural to be cautious about hiring a strange person, considering the potential impact on the kids.
“She’ll do great! I guarantee it!”
Plona’s face radiated confidence.
What does she have faith in to back me up like that? While I’m thankful, it raises a bit of concern. I’m worried she might back me up without a second thought, landing herself in a pile of debt.
I might need to tell her next time that she shouldn’t just follow someone she doesn’t know on a whim.
“Still… it’s rare for someone to get so attached from the start. Alright, Miss Aria, then I’ll be in your care.”
Is it really so rare for someone as outgoing and sociable as her to attach to someone?
From the moment we met, I thought she’d follow anyone offering candy on the street.
While I find that somewhat puzzling, at least I’ve landed the job. They say it’s all about connections in this world, and it seems that truth holds even in this new life.
In any case, thank you, director. Even if it’s parachuting in, I’ll do my best to earn my keep.
*
“Kids, it’s mealtime! Wash your hands and come!”
“Yes—.”
“Hey sis, did you make lunch again today?”
“Yep, and don’t run in the hallway, Jack!”
“Ugh, but sis, your soup isn’t tasty!”
“Jack! You know that’s rude, don’t you?!”
The air is filled with laughter.
The orphanage director, Amy, smiled at the kids’ voices, which grew louder as they headed towards the dining area.
Amidst the swarm of children, a woman with long silver hair tied in a ponytail caught my eye.
With a pout after a boy’s teasing remark, her face seemed devoid of any adult’s dignity. Yet her gentle eyes showed a warmth that suggested she wasn’t genuinely hurt but rather playing along with the child’s joke.
A few girls were fervently defending her.
The shy Sophia, who rarely approaches others, was gripping the hem of her skirt while glaring at Jack.
Seeing her quietly trying to ward off a bully felt adorably cute.
The silver-haired woman spotted Amy.
She smiled sweetly, welcoming Amy.
“Welcome, Director! Have you finished your work?”
“You did well, Aria. After lunch, take some time to rest.”
Amy sat down with the kids, enjoying a bowl of bean soup.
Even though mischievous Jack teased her, the soup was surprisingly good.
When I first ate it, I couldn’t even pretend it tasted okay, but now I’d say it’s average at worst. Amy savored the taste with the same emotion a parent feels watching their child grow.
Aria, with her flowing silver hair and an ethereal charm that seemed fragile yet alluring, has already been working at the orphanage for a month.
To think that Plona had given her the name “Aria,” it reminded Amy of when Plona first brought her to the orphanage.
When Aria, claiming to have lost her memory, requested to work here, Amy honestly felt troubled.
Even without memories, one could guess a few things just by their looks.
Her soft hands were untouched by hardship, and her well-grown form suggested that she wasn’t a product of the impoverished class.
Clearly, she was someone born into privilege and raised without having to struggle for daily needs.
Would a maiden born and raised in such luxury be able to endure the work at an orphanage?
The work was far more laborious than one would expect—preparing meals for dozens of children, doing laundry, cleaning, managing the yard, and even entertaining the kids. Amy honestly believed that Aria wouldn’t withstand such demands.
However, she couldn’t turn away someone without a place to go and couldn’t exactly protect her since she wasn’t a minor.
After much persuasion from Plona, Amy reluctantly accepted Aria.
And soon, she realized her worries were unfounded.
As expected, Aria struggled with everything. She couldn’t cook, and her cleaning skills were somewhat clumsy.
Yet, not once did she complain.
Despite being faced with unfamiliar and challenging tasks, anyone else would have shown frustration or sorrow, but Aria’s demeanor remained pleasant and calm.
She diligently practiced her awkward tasks, humming tunes as she completed her chores, genuinely cherishing each day spent at the orphanage.
Combined with her ever-present warm smile and gentle voice—even excluding the visits from Plona on weekends—she became a rare young adult in the orphanage, leading the kids to open their hearts to her in no time.
Now, just a month later, they’re practically a family. Gaze upon Aria, and Amy feels an odd pang in her heart.
How confused must she be, tossed into this place without memories of her past? Yet, she lives with such strength and positivity, urging Amy to want to provide her with even more comfort and care.
Clatter—
While cleaning up after the meal, Amy turned her head at the sound of clinking dishes nearby.
Aria, carrying some plates, had one hand resting on the table as she sat down.
Her eyelids trembled, and her uneven breathing made it clear that something was off, causing Amy to dash over in alarm.
“Aria! Are you okay?!”
“Ah… Director. It’s nothing really.”
Aria smiled weakly, but it was clear she was trying to reassure Amy.
It seemed like she had indeed pushed herself too hard this time. Amy couldn’t help but speak firmly.
“Of course it’s not nothing! You need to go rest this instant!”
“No, not yet—”
“You’ve been in that state frequently since last week! Ignoring even minor ailments when they start only makes things worse. You need to go and rest today.”
Aria resisted for a bit, insisting she still had work, but she couldn’t sway Amy’s determination.
With worried eyes, Amy watched as Aria trudged toward her room.
Little did Amy know that up to this point, Aria’s issues were more than just feeling unwell.