Felicia was bustling around her kitchen, preparing for her upcoming business trip. She glanced at the clock, her thoughts drifting to Chisa, who would soon return from school. "I hope everything goes smoothly," she murmured, dialing the number of the babysitting service.
Chika rang the doorbell, a nervous flutter in her stomach. She adjusted her mature-looking outfit, hoping it would help her avoid any more mistaken assumptions about her age. Hima opened the door, her tall figure casting a shadow over Chika.
"Hello, you must be Chisa," Hima said with a warm smile. Chika blinked in surprise, her protests caught in her throat.
"No, I'm not—" Chika began, but Hima was already leading her inside, talking animatedly about the plans for the day.
"Let's get you settled in. It's going to be fun!" Hima said, guiding Chika to a room decorated with bright colors and toys.
Chika sighed, realizing her attempts to correct Hima's mistake were futile for now.
Chika stood in the yard, trying to maintain her composure as Hima cheerfully suggested playing games.
"I really need to tell you—" Chika tried again but stumbled over her words as she felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment.
"Oh, don't be shy, Chisa. It's all in good fun!" Hima insisted, not noticing the growing discomfort of Chika.
Chika found herself at the park with Hima, her protests drowned out by the joyful noise around her.
"I can't keep doing this," Chika muttered to herself, feeling the weight of her situation. A misstep led to further humiliation, reinforcing Hima's perception of her as a child.
"Careful, Chisa! Let's get you cleaned up," Hima said, her tone gentle but firm.
Chika sat on the couch, exhausted from the day's misadventures. She looked at Hima, who was tidying up.
"I need to talk to you," Chika said, her voice more determined now.
"Of course, Chisa. What's on your mind?" Hima replied, turning to face her.
The conversation that followed finally began to untangle the confusion, setting the stage for a clearer understanding between them.
