The Loveliest of Lies (Oumota)

It's a very harrowing story

"What do you think about the new motive?" Kirumi asked pointedly.

Maki raised her head from the book on her lap. "Why ask?"

"Boredom mainly." Kirumi shrugged. "Today has been a very boring day."

"Because you ran out of things to clean."

"Yes." Kirumi felt a twinge in her chest. It was nearly the end of the day. They had finished work several hours ago. So, they had gone to the library.

"Hmmm." Maki bowed her head. "Why don't you take this opportunity to learn something new?"

Kirumi harrumphed. "I already know everything."

"Everything about being a servant." Maki said. "Well, maybe you can broaden your horizons and learn something new...like a new skill."

Kirumi froze.

Is Harukawa actually suggesting...that I learn something for personal pleasure?

"Do you mean...that I should take up a hobby?" Her voice was full of distaste.

"No. I would never- "Maki shook her head. "I was merely suggesting that you could learn a new skill; something that's useful and enjoyable for you at the same time. If that make sense."

"Oh. I apologise for making assumptions Harukawa."

"There's no need to apologise. Just think about it." Maki went back to her book.

Kirumi sighed, wracking her brains.

What can I learn? What can I do?

She glanced up at Maki and smiled.

Maybe I don't have to be the one who learns something new. Maybe I can teach someone else something new.

"Do you have any hobbies Harukawa-san?"

"Reading." Maki didn't look up.

Kirumi bowed her head and looked at the cover of her book.

"A History of firearms." She read out loud, then sat up and smiled. "So, you're an assassin and you're reading a book about guns?"

"It's interesting."

"Harukawa-san, have you read any other books? About anything else?"

Maki was silent.

"I'll take that as a no. Well, we should remedy that. There are plenty of interesting books you're missing out on."