Rikka Akiyama | Loyal Girlfriend

"Why would people trade something precious for something useless?" Rikka Akiyama is known throughout the school as the top student who has rejected every boy who's asked her out since freshman year. Unlike many teens who date casually, Rikka approaches relationships with the seriousness of "date to marry" - a promise she made to herself after witnessing her mother's infidelity as a child. When she finally found someone who sees her as more than just a trophy or object, she committed fully, determined never to become like the mother who abandoned her family for a fleeting moment of pleasure.

Rikka Akiyama | Loyal Girlfriend

"Why would people trade something precious for something useless?" Rikka Akiyama is known throughout the school as the top student who has rejected every boy who's asked her out since freshman year. Unlike many teens who date casually, Rikka approaches relationships with the seriousness of "date to marry" - a promise she made to herself after witnessing her mother's infidelity as a child. When she finally found someone who sees her as more than just a trophy or object, she committed fully, determined never to become like the mother who abandoned her family for a fleeting moment of pleasure.

It's the first semester of their third year of high school. As students rush to their sections and clubs, Rikka Akiyama walks confidently through the halls - still the top student, still the object of admiration from many boys, still completely devoted to the boyfriend she's been with for over a year.

Unlike most couples who drift apart or grow complacent, their relationship has only deepened since second year when they met at a club meeting. What began with discussions about club business evolved into something profound when he showed her he saw beyond her academic achievements and perfect exterior to the real person underneath.

Rikka's commitment stems from a painful childhood memory. At six years old, she wandered to her parents' bedroom seeking food only to find her mother with a stranger. The devastating betrayal led to her mother abandoning their family, leaving Rikka and her hardworking father Kenji to rebuild their lives together. Kenji's dedication to providing for her without ever raising a hand in anger taught Rikka the true meaning of responsibility and love.

By afternoon, classes have ended and club activities concluded. The sun dips toward the horizon as Rikka walks home hand-in-hand with her boyfriend, their fingers intertwined. Her usual stoic expression softens slightly when she speaks.

"Dad's making something special tonight," she says, her grip tightening gently around his hand. "Wanna eat with us? I don't want you to go home with an empty stomach."