Chapter 296

The Twenty-Seventh Unknown Tiny Heart of a Young Girl

There is no such thing as justice always prevailing. It’s merely that a group of fools fighting for justice dedicate their lives to making this notion sound reasonable.

Even the strongest hero can have moments of frustration and difficulty.

Tsukikage Lily is currently in such a state. She had believed she had moved on from the past until this encounter with “Kuron” reopened her barely healed wounds, leaving her inner “heart” fragile and vulnerable.

At this moment, Ash stepped forward, demonstrating an uncommon reliable aura that melted away the cold outer shell she used to protect her heart.

Even the strongest individuals have moments of weakness, and the one she can confide in is undoubtedly the person she trusts most, such as family, close friends, or perhaps someone irreplaceable to her.

“It’s okay, it’s okay.”

Ash played his role perfectly, providing a sense of reliance. With his right hand on Lily’s slightly trembling back, he gently comforted her with soft touches.

“Come now, there’s nothing to it. If you keep crying, even flowers would pale in comparison.”

A devilish voice echoed inside her mind. ‘Ms. Lily, don’t believe this person; he’s just saying it for appearances!’

Unfortunately, Lily couldn’t hear the devilish voice. She lifted her feverish face, tears still streaming uncontrollably.

“But no matter what you say…”

“It’ll be fine, everything will work out.”

Will everything really work out?

The young girl completely exposed her vulnerable side to him, even abandoning modesty to pout at him. Realizing this, Ash softly sighed.

She really believes in me completely. Although it’s as I wished, this unexpectedly complicates things.

Past experiences have taught him they won’t stay together long.

For now, let me gather some more “motivation” for you all. You can be angry with me later when it’s time.

“How wonderful.”

Lei genuinely felt joyful seeing this scene before her eyes.

“What’s wonderful?” Erika circled Lei with a skeptical expression, confirming the genuine happiness on Lei’s face.

“Lei…” Looking at the gradually developing friendship, Erika whispered in Lei’s ear. “I thought you’d feel jealous?”

After all, Lei had been infatuated with the Manager from the first meeting, stumbling over words; now with Ms. Lily and the Manager getting along, Lei’s love interests might be dashed, right?

“Why should I be jealous?” Lei wiped away tears of gratitude. “Now, only the Manager can help Ms. Lily, shouldn’t I be happy for them?”

Speaking those staggering words, Lei observed Ash comforting the melancholic Lily. Her smile was sincere, her amethyst eyes clear without a trace of gloom.

Mr. Ash… At first, I was captivated by the Manager. I found Mr. Ash’s handsome face and mysterious aura alluring.

But as I got to know him better, I discovered the real Ash. A bit of disillusionment with my ideal of him, yet because of this, I could easily engage with Mr. Ash freely, without barriers, like friends joking around, closing the distance.

Whenever they faced hardships, he supported the Pretty Cure faithfully, a sentiment of gratitude Lei cherished deeply.

Now, recalling his previous encouragement and seeing his comfort for sad Lily, Lei was convinced she didn’t misjudge him.

This unreliable but dependable Manager, Mr. Ash, I still admire you! I…

“Lei, you’re truly amazing… I’m quite envious!”

However, Lei wasn’t about to concede. Secretly, she made a determination, under no circumstances would she lose to Tsukikage Lily. With renewed vigor, her heart began encouraging her fiercely!

“So, Erika!” Lei suddenly grabbed her friend’s hand, startling her.

“I want you to help me!”

“Help with what?”

Seeing Erika’s puzzled expression, Lei blushed slightly and said, “Well, I… I want something more noticeable and impactful. Since you know more about fashion, I’m asking for your help.”

“Mmm—” Erika stared blankly for a moment, then gave her friend a thumbs-up after abandoning her thoughts.

“Sure! Even if I don’t understand at all, since it’s my dear friend asking, I’ll do it wholeheartedly!”

Seeing Lei and Erika interacting warmly again sparked something within them. Even Ash couldn’t help smiling.

Such beautiful moments, whether real or fabricated, have their own meaning.

He believes these times will be remembered fondly in his memories.

“How nice.”

With a sigh, Ash poured freshly brewed coffee into four cups. His skilled hands produced beautiful lattes atop the golden amber-colored surface.

Though the coffee smelled delicious and rich, the unusual taste elicited awkward expressions from the three women.

“Coming, coming, coming! My special brew, secret recipe Mars Power Premium Coffee Series. Come, drink this to boost your spirits!”

“Worrying, I should head back.” Adjusting her mood, Lily left, her movements stiff and formal, carrying her handbag.

“I… Ah, the table is dirty. I’ll clean it up.” Looking at the unused wooden surface, Erika lied about a dirty table, wiping it clumsily with a cloth.

“I, uh!” Seeing others leave, Lei quickly put her glasses back on, exclaiming in panic, “I, I need to use the restroom!”

They knew well the taste of Mars Coffee.

Seeing the Pretty Cure, who used to rely on her, scattered like birds and beasts, Ash sipped his coffee, unable to suppress a deep sigh.

“The hearts are scattered, it won’t be easy now—”

Putting down half the cup, he stretched out his tongue and wide eyes, surprised by the scalding flavor.

“It’s hot! Forgot the timing…”

Taking another sip, tasting the extremely bitter, thick flavor like an explosion on his palate, Ash’s frown relaxed.

What was that? It’s actually very good.