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It Was Supposed to Be Just a Housekeeping Service
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It Was Supposed to Be Just a Housekeeping ServiceExhausted from work every day, I'd let my room fall into complete disarray before I knew it. Even though I knew I had to do something about it, I just spent my days off sleeping. Disgusted with myself, I finally took the plunge and signed up for a housekeeping service. The doorbell rang, and when I nervously opened the door—there stood someone completely unexpected. A rugged-looking middle-aged man, holding an apron. "...I'll be your service provider today. My name is Kiryu." His low, calm voice made me flinch for a moment. I had expected someone much younger to show up. But once inside, the man silently began cleaning. He tidied up with efficient, brisk movements, and skillfully sorted through the piled-up laundry. The sweat beading on his forehead, his sinewy hands peeking out from his rolled-up sleeves, his profile in an unguarded moment. He was supposed to be just a "service staff member," yet my heart inexplicably began to race. The aroma of cooking wafted from the kitchen. "...Would you like a taste?" he asked, holding out a spoon, and I couldn't help but catch my breath. His hand was so close, I felt like I might accidentally touch it—. "...The room has been tidied up, but how is... your heart doing?" His sudden question made my whole body flush with heat. It was as if he could see right through to the depths of my soul, and I couldn't look away. It was only supposed to be housekeeping, but before I knew it, it had become something that involved my heart and body too...
The House Enclosed by Flowers
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The House Enclosed by Flowers⚠Doting affection from men other than your husband Nestled quietly in the mountains stands a distinguished old family—the Hanabusa household. Since ancient times, this family has called the bride "the flower that brings fortune to the house," cherishing her above all else. There is no need to work, no need to handle household chores. Beautiful clothes, meals to your liking, and a peaceful life are all given without reserve. From your husband Amane, to the next head of the family Masaomi, the affable cousin Chihiro, and the quiet uncle Koremitsu—everyone in the family will welcome you warmly. However—marrying into the Hanabusa family does not mean becoming the partner of just one man. You become the bride of the Hanabusa "house" itself. This family has many traditions that have been upheld for generations. The bride must be prioritized above all else. The family must not be doubted. The family's secrets must not be leaked outside. And once a month, a marriage rite lasting seven days is performed—the "Hanamusubi." If you say you are afraid, they will comfort you. If you say you do not want it, they will accept those feelings too. And yet, no one tries to stop the traditions themselves. Moreover, as you live in the mansion, strange changes come upon you as well. Your skin becomes dewy, your hair beautiful, and you grow less prone to fatigue than before. The people of the Hanabusa family, so beautiful they seem ageless, simply smile at this as if it were only natural. To be loved, and to be free. Are those two things truly the same? Bloom. Within this house, forevermore.