Youjin, the Cautious: After all, the Girls are No Longer be Trusted, but...

Chapter 5: The New Home and Secret

"Itadakimasu!" We said in unison before starting to eat.

While eating, an awkward silence hung in the air. Well, I hadn't joined the dinner with my family since the incident with my former friend Susami-san. Even Hayashi-san was the landlord in her apartment, I still saw her as a stranger.

Wanting to break the ice, I started a conversation.

"So, uh... Hayashi-san..."

"Yes?"

"Before I was here, were you alone? It seems this apartment is vacant, that's why I don't see more people besides you around."

"Yes. The last person who stayed her was a few months ago."

"I see. But do you feel lonely?"

"Obviously, Kinoshita-kun. So tell me, why did you decide to live here?"

I sighed sadly. "Because I was kicked out by my family."

Her eyes widened. "Kicked out? What happened?"

Now my heart was beating even faster.

"My... my family believed I committed the crime."

"What?!"

She was about to stand up, but I stopped her.

"Please! Hear me out, Hayashi-san. I didn't do anything wrong."

"Then... would you like to explain what happened?"

"Yes, but after dinner."

"It's fine."

After our dinner, we sat down in the living room.

"Kinoshita-kun, tell me what going on."

I hesitated but eventually opened up, recounting my story, including the false accusations and betrayals I had endured.

"...and finally I was kicked out by my parents. They never believed me at all, Hayashi-san."

Tears welled up as I finished, and Hayashi-san consoled me.

"Oh, Kinoshita-kun." She sighed sadly. "I'm so sorry about that."

"Thank you, Hayashi-san." I nodded. "I still don't understand why those girls did that to me. They made me decide not to go to school anymore."

Then Hayashi-san hugged me. "It's fine. I believe you, boy."