The classroom buzzed with excitement. My father's heart was probably just as unsettled, Daiki. When did I even become a villainess? And come to think of it, what is a villainess anyway?
"For those who aren't familiar, there are three strict conditions to becoming a villainess. The first is to have someone you love taken away by another. The second is to be betrayed, lose your place, and be exiled. The third is to still not give up and strive to get your revenge."
…Ah… if that's the case, I guess I've met the requirements to be a villainess… though it's worth noting that I'm not exactly a 'young lady.'
"Three years ago, my father had my former mother taken away by another man. My former mother left behind only a note and a completed divorce form, taking all the valuables from the house and disappearing. Since then, my father has raised me with great care all by himself. So, the first condition is met."
Daiki pointed his index finger sharply. I could almost hear the classroom air freeze. Father, I've been trying my hardest to hide that I'm a single parent because I was worried you'd get bullied, but I never expected you to come out with it yourself... You've grown strong and resilient, not just in appearance but in character too. I'm so proud of you. Though I wish you had wrapped it up a bit more delicately.
"Then, two years ago, my father bravely exposed his boss's embezzlement, and as a result, he was subjected to relentless harassment by his colleagues, eventually being driven out of his workplace. The second condition is also met."
That was mentally tough... None of the coworkers I'd worked so hard with over the years stood by me. If it weren't for Daiki, I might have broken down somewhere along the way. But I never expected to be cornered like this by the same Daiki...
"And a year ago, while juggling multiple part-time jobs to support our household, my father used the programming skills he honed in the black company to single-handedly develop a smartphone app that's now wildly popular among young people. He achieved great success, so the final condition is met."
The executives from my former workplace rushed over to my house after hearing the news and bowed their heads in desperate apology. But I took the opportunity to say, "It's too late now." My voice was shaking, though. Daiki secretly recorded that scene, and we replayed it over and over, crying our eyes out and laughing together.
"However, there's one thing my father still lacks as a villainess."
Is that so… But I never aimed to become a villainess in the first place.
"A villainess must ultimately end up with her destined partner. Typically, it's the second prince."
………Ah, that's impossible. Not only is it out of the question to end up with a prince, but I can't get married anytime soon, nor do I plan to... I'm sorry that I can't become a villainess... and that your mother isn't here.
"So today, I have a proposal for all of you."
Hm? Why is he turning around? No, there's no need to wave your hand.
"My father isn't bad-looking or bad-natured. Even discounting a son's biased view, it's not an exaggeration to say he's at least above average. Although he became somewhat distrustful of people after what happened with my former mother and the black company, at heart, he's a very kind, funny, and wonderful father. By the way, since his app is selling like crazy, his annual income now easily exceeds 20 million yen."
"Hey! Don’t say such specific and undignified things! Also, Daiki, you’re the smartest, most considerate, and best son anyone could ask for!"
"It might be seen as a disadvantage that I come with a child, but if that becomes a real obstacle, I'm okay with being sent to a foster home."
"Don't say such foolish things, Daiki! Even if the whole world turns against me, I’ll never let you go! If you’re lonely without a mother, I’ll find a way to become either a mother or a villainess! I’ll even cosplay or whatever it takes…"
"As you can see, my father is extremely earnest, so he absolutely won't cheat."
"Wha-…"
…I felt like my face was going to explode from embarrassment. My third-grade son had me completely dancing in the palm of his hand. Even with my face buried in my hands, I could feel the warm gazes of the other parents. I swear I can even feel some predatory-like stares mixed in, but that’s probably just my imagination.
"However, my father is hopelessly bad at judging women, so first, I will personally conduct a brief interview with any interested candidates. Afterward, those who pass will receive a notification, and we’ll arrange a face-to-face meeting."
I’ve never heard of such a revolutionary matchmaking system. How little trust does my son have in me? I guess I can't blame him, considering my ex-wife brutally dumped me.
"Interviews will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis. My email address is…"
"Daiki-kun!"
The homeroom teacher, who had been silent until now, suddenly raised her voice. Saved... Though if I could ask for one more favor, I wish she’d stopped him a bit sooner.
"Why didn’t you come to me first, Daiki-kun?"
Wait, what? Ms. Suzuki?
"As you know, I’m single, and as a public servant, my life is stable. I have plenty of savings, so you don't need to worry about a marriage for money. I’m well-acquainted with your father's character through parent-teacher meetings, and to be honest, his looks and personality are exactly my type. Besides, if I became your mother, I could always help you with your studies."
"I see... How could I have overlooked the most eligible candidate, the teacher? That’s quite an advantage. And yes, your appearance is exactly my father's type..."
Ms. Suzuki murmured, her cheeks slightly reddening. What is this sudden turn of events...? I also hear a few of the other parents clicking their tongues in frustration, which is a bit scary.
"Ahem. Well then, that was a wonderful essay and presentation by Daiki-kun. Now that we're out of time, today's class will end here. Daiki-kun and your father, please come to the counseling room immediately. We need to discuss our future plans together."
She looked at me with eyes full of determination, as if saying there’s no escape. Sigh... If I knew it would come to this, I should have checked the content of Daiki’s essay more carefully. But it’s too late for regrets now.
With the jeers of the class troublemakers, the teasing "whoo-hoo"s from the fathers I occasionally drink with, and the protests of "We strongly oppose abuse of authority!" from a few of the women echoing behind us, I walked hand in hand with Daiki, who wore a beaming smile of victory, toward my potential future wife.
[The End]
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