Becoming A Father Figure

Chapter 19: Inu-Naki Police Station

At the Inu-Naki Police Station, Yuuta and his group found themselves brought in due to a passerby's report, while the talent scout had already been taken to the hospital for his injuries.

The station's chief took charge of dealing with the four of them, and upon spotting Hina, a warm smile crossed his face. "Little one, what are you doing here? Where are your mom and dad?"

Hina responded obediently, "My mom and dad are working far away, so I came here with my uncle and sister."

Seated comfortably in a chair, Hina noticed a table with candies and snacks thoughtfully provided by the police, along with children's drinks that the officers had fetched.

Outside the door, several officers had gathered, drawn by the presence of the adorable little girl.

"Don't crowd!"

"Hina is so adorable!"

"What a well-behaved child!"

"So energetic! Just now, Hina said she wants to become a dazzling magical girl when she grows up! How cute!"

The chief, while wanting to engage with Hina, held back despite his officers' enthusiasm.

He turned his attention to the young man sitting beside Hina, who appeared uninjured and cooperative, a far cry from his earlier outburst.

"Can you understand me?" the chief inquired, aware that Yuuta's use of strong language was taken seriously by the police due to its potential consequences.

The officers had pieced together the events, learning from witnesses that the talent scout had approached Yuuta first.

The police were keen on deescalating the situation, especially when dealing with foreigners, particularly those with children, considering that the matter had been instigated by the talent scout.

The use of the term "dad" had originally carried a sarcastic and self-deprecating tone among some young people, mocking game companies or wealthy entrepreneurs. However, with increased usage, it had gradually evolved into a habit, occasionally conveying a sense of endearment.

While it began as a derogatory term, it had grown more familiar and transformed into admiration and fondness, ultimately becoming a term of endearment. A day without hearing it felt incomplete.

Yuuta explained this to the police, and the chief, relieved that it wasn't a major issue, casually remarked, "Well, then, there's no problem. Young people, fights happen from time to time. Are you called Hina, young lady?"

The police chief bypassed the usual procedures and swiftly engaged Hina in conversation, leading to a quick resolution.

Yuuta, watching Hina swing her short legs while seated, couldn't help but wonder if she was the reason for this smooth outcome.

Initially, he had feared they might face a police investigation that could result in a few days of detention. He regretted his impulsive actions.

However, matters had settled without further complications, and they didn't even have to worry about medical expenses. Hina deserved credit for this!

The other police officers didn't pay much attention to the incident either. People with children usually had an advantage at the police station. After all, what could they do after apprehending Yuuta? They couldn't separate him from the girls.

Given that it wasn't a dispute involving foreigners against locals, a simple resolution sufficed. The police were well-accustomed to dealing with individuals who used derogatory language, and one more patient in the hospital wouldn't make a significant difference.

"How about this? I'll take you all to the restaurant across the street. It's on me, and I'll ensure you get back home safely," the police chief suggested. He had grown fond of Hina, as older individuals often did with adorable and lively children.

Yuuta promptly declined, saying, "No need, we can find our way back on our own. Chief, you still have work to do, and we don't want to trouble you."

The police chief insisted, "This is part of my job! Safely escorting lost children home is our duty. Besides, you were involved in an incident just now, so it's only right that a police officer like me ensures you get back home!"

"Thank you, sir!" Miu and Sora expressed their gratitude promptly and agreed to the suggestion.

Yuuta, feeling somewhat helpless, had no choice but to go along with everyone.

"Hina, remember to visit us again!" The officers warmly made a promise to Hina as she left.

"Yeah, and next time, there will be more candy!"

Yuuta observed this scene unfold with resignation; he had no desire to return to this place.

Once outside the police station, the police chief led Hina and the others to the café across the street.

It was a Cat's Eye Café.

-------------------

If you want to read 10 chapters ahead..

Go to my patreon: patreon/EggZy